Optimization and Characterization of Nanoemulsions of Protein Hydrolysate from Black Soldier Fly Maggot as an Antioxidant Vinda Maharani Patricia, Hanifa Rahma, Hilda Aprilia Wisnuwardhani, Yani Lukmayani, Syadza Syahida Zahra
Universitas Islam Bandung
Abstract
Increased exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a primary trigger for the heightened production of free radicals in the body, underscoring the urgent need for effective natural antioxidant agents. Protein hydrolysate derived from Black Soldier Fly (BSF) maggots has been identified as a rich protein source with significant antioxidant potential. This study focuses on the optimization and characterization of nanoemulsions formulated with BSF maggot protein hydrolysate, considering variations in the enzymes used during the hydrolysis process. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of the resulting nanoemulsions was comprehensively evaluated using the DPPH radical scavenging assay method. The results indicate that hydrolysis using the pepsin enzyme yielded protein hydrolysate with the best antioxidant activity, as demonstrated by an IC50 (Inhibitory Concentration 50%) value of 136,405 ug/mL. The optimal nanoemulsion formulation consisted of protein hydrolysate, Tween 80, PEG 400 (at a 1:1 ratio), Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO), and distilled water. This formulation exhibited excellent physical characteristics, including a globule size of 14,27 nm, a Polydispersity Index (PDI) of 0,14, a zeta potential of 0,83, and a viscosity ranging from 10-2000 cPs. Stability tests conducted over six cycles using heating-cooling and freeze-thaw methods showed no phase separation, with stable pH values of 5,505, and high transmittance of 97,9% and 96,75%. Although IC50 value value indicated very weak antioxidant activity was 4941,364 ug/mL, the formulation demonstrated remarkable physical stability and potential as a topical antioxidant.
Keywords: protein hydrolysate, maggot, black soldier fly, antioxidant, nanoemulsion
