Comparison of ultrasound-assisted extraction and modified QuEChERS technique for extraction of hesperidin from lemon peel (Citrus limon L.) as determined by HPLC

Hesperidin (HSP) is a bioflavonoid known for its notable health benefits. Recent extraction strategies have aimed to minimize hazardous solvent use and simplify procedures to improve cost-effectiveness. This study compares ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) with a modified “quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe” (QuEChERS) method for the recovery of HSP. High-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) was used for quantification. The modified QuEChERS method resulted in the highest extraction efficiency while significantly reducing processing time. The validated method demonstrated excellent sensitivity (LOQ: 10.0 µg/mL), high accuracy (recovery >93 %), and good precision (RSD <3.4 %), making it a reliable and cost-effective approach for routine HSP analysis in citrus peel. These findings indicate that the modified QuEChERS technique offers a promising alternative to UAE for the rapid and efficient extraction of HSP. • Innovative flavonoid extraction approach optimized for citrus-derived food matrices. • Hesperidin yield was 48.7 % higher and extraction time 75 % shorter than with ultrasound. • Method validation confirmed high accuracy and low variability in hesperidin quantification. • Efficient, rapid, and suitable sample preparation for citrus-based food products.