Ultrasound‐Assisted Reverse Micelle Simultaneous Extraction of Protein and Oil From Pigeon Pea Seeds: Optimization and Analyses of Physicochemical and Functional Properties

ABSTRACT This study established an optimized ultrasound‐assisted reverse micelle extraction (UARME) method for the simultaneous extraction of protein and oil from pigeon pea seeds, using sodium bis(2‐ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate (AOT)/n‐hexane reverse micelles. Key factors in extraction processes were optimized to maximize extraction efficiency. The physicochemical and functional properties of the extracted pigeon pea seed protein (PPSP) and pigeon pea seed oil (PPSO) were comprehensively analyzed. The UARME achieved a protein extraction efficiency of 86.06%, significantly higher than the 73.13% obtained by the conventional alkaline soluble acid precipitation (ASAE) method. UARME‐extracted PPSP differed significantly from ASAE‐extracted PPSP in molecular weight, microstructure, and secondary structure. Meanwhile, UARME enabled the concurrent extraction of PPSO rich in linoleic acid with an efficiency of 49.78%. The PPSP obtained by UARME exhibited better solubility, oil‐holding capacity, emulsifying activity, and stability, as well as foaming capacity and stability compared to that from ASAE. This indicates its great potential as an excellent protein source. Overall, UARME is a promising technology for the simultaneous extraction of protein and oil from pigeon pea seeds, providing a theoretical basis for their utilization in the food industry.