LAUSR

Abstract Subcritical fluid extraction from Chia seeds (Salvia hispanica L.) using n-propane as a solvent and classical extractions as Soxhlet and ultrasonic extraction in n-hexane were performed to obtain oil rich extract. Influence of elevated operating pressure (up to 300 bar) and temperature (40 °C and 60 °C) on the extraction yield and extract composition is presented. Higher solvent density contributed to higher extraction yield, which increased from 14.38% to 20.8%. Extraction kinetic curves were modelled using Brunner’s equation and the model has been proved to fit well to the results. Compositions of extracts obtained by different methods were analysed and compared by gas chromatography (GC). Presence of palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic and linolenic free fatty acid has been confirmed. The highest proportion of linolenic (almost 60%) and linoleic acid is attained in oils obtained by subcritical propane extraction.