Green extraction of polyphenols from fruit waste using deep eutectic solvents and ultrasound-assisted techniques

• Ultrasound enhances mass transfer during extraction creating a cavitation effect. • UAE technique relies on high-frequency sound waves to disrupt cell walls. • DES employs eco-friendly solvents for selective phytocompound extraction. • UAE-DES synergy maximizes yield with less energy consumption. This review examines the effectiveness of green techniques, including Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE) and Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES), for extracting polyphenols from fruit waste. DES significantly extracts bioactive compounds and ensures high selectivity, sustainability, and enhanced solubility. The combined effect of UAE-DES enhances extraction yield, reduces processing time, and decreases solvent use, making it a greener alternative to conventional extraction methods. UAE-DES synergy maximizes yield with reduced energy consumption, while also serving as a substitute for toxic organic solvents in environmentally friendly extraction processes. The UAE technique utilizes high-frequency sound waves to disrupt cell walls, whereas DES employs environmentally friendly solvents for the selective extraction of phytocompounds. The review examines the effect of process parameters, including those of UAE and DES, on extraction efficiency, such as solvent type, temperature, and time. The extracted polyphenols were further evaluated for their antioxidant activity, bioavailability, and potential health benefits. In addition, the review examines the potential applications of the extracted polyphenols in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, leveraging their natural preservative, flavor-enhancing, and therapeutic properties. This study aims to provide methods for converting fruit waste into useful, health-benefiting compounds, thereby promoting sustainability by reducing waste and valorizing natural resources.