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Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) is one of the leading commodities in Indonesia. Cocoa pod husk is part of the mesocarp or part of the cacao pod husk that wraps the cocoa beans. Endophytic bacteria are microbes that live in host plant tissues and do not interfere with host plant growth. This study aimed to determine characteristics of endophytic bacterial isolates contained in endocarp cocoa pod husk and to determine the antioxidant power of endophytic bacterial isolates contained in cocoa pod husk. Isolation of endophytic bacteria from the inner pod of cocoa which be expected to produce antioxidants has been carried out. Isolation of bacteria using surface sterilization method. Antioxidant test using DPPH method (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) with UV-Vis spectrophotometer at 600 nm. Two isolates out of four endophytic bacteria were obtained from the results of the preliminary test of phenolic tests, namely isolates of bacteria KK2 and KK3 which had different colony morphology. The results of the secondary metabolite test showed that the bacterial isolates KK2 and KK3 contained flavonoids and phenolics. Based on the test results, the value of IC50 of bacterial isolate KK2 was 2104.58 ppm and KK3 bacterial isolate was 1123.04 ppm. The highest antioxidant activity was possessed by bacterial isolate KK3 and was classified as a very weak antioxidant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In cocoa agroforestry systems, cycling of leaves, pods, and branches are key for organic matter sustenance. We investigated annual total litterfall, annual nutrient stocks in total litterfall, cocoa pods and beans, as well as cocoa leaf decomposition rates in cocoa agroforestry systems under conventional and organic management in Suhum Municipality, Eastern Region of Ghana. The study was conducted using six cocoa agroforests for each management selected from a total of four villages. Litterfall was collected monthly using litterboxes and a litterbag technique was employed to study the rates of leaf decomposition and nutrient release for 12 months. In June and July, total litterfall in organic farms were 94% and 65%, respectively, higher than in conventional farms, but management had no effect on average annual total litterfall of 8.8 t ha−1 yr−1 litterfall. Due to the trees' reduced transpiration, 61% of the annual total litterfall occurred during the dry season. Whereas average leaf litter nitrogen (N) concentration was 17% higher in the rainy season than dry season, potassium (K) concentration was 38% higher during the dry season than rainy season. This likely reflected the contribution of N rich green leaves to litterfall in the rainy season and plant coping strategy to drought leading to K accumulation. Cocoa leaf decomposition was not affected by management. Annual potassium (K) and calcium (Ca) stocks in cocoa pod husk were four and nine-fold, respectively, higher than in cocoa beans. We conclude that organic versus conventional management had no effect on litterfall and cocoa leaf decomposition rather season influenced litterfall quantity and chemistry. Irrespective of management the spreading of cocoa pod husk after harvest will improve internal nutrient cycling in cocoa agroforestry systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work aimed to use cocoa pod husk (CPH) and its extracted pectin as a potential substrate for the production of pectinase and to test the enzyme produced in the clarification process of apple juice. CPH with a particle size of <0.84 mm was employed for pectinase production by a selected strain of Aspergillus niger NRRL 2270. The optimization of the physicochemical conditions of the production medium led to an enzymatic activity of 602.03 U/g dry CPH, which was obtained under the following conditions: 110.25 g/L of CPH, 5% w/v pectin extract, 0.05 g/L of yeast extract, incubation at 28 °C, and pH 4, representing a 176% increase in enzymatic activity under the evaluated conditions. The production kinetics of pectinase showed maximum enzymatic activity at 96 h. Subsequently, the enzymatic extract was precipitated, microfiltered, and ultrafiltrated, resulting in 4852.50 U/mg of specific activity. The enzymatic activity after recovery and purification processes corresponded to 819 U/g dry CPH. Finally, a clarification stage of apple juice was carried out, in which the produced pectinase (CauPec) showed turbidity of 448.89 NTU compared to 417.89 NTU for the commercial enzyme and a viscosity of 1.86 cP, CauPec, and 1.19 cP, commercial pectinase, as well as soluble solids of 8.0 for commercial pectinase and 8.73 for CauPec. Therefore, it can be concluded that CPH and its pectin extract were excellent substrates for the production of pectinases, whose formulation is highly stable and can be applied in the clarification of apple juice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The limitation of the use of some agricultural wastes is their C/N ratio. This study was aimed at integrating cocoa pod husk, moringa leaves, and poultry droppings in composted form for enriched soil amendments for vegetable production. Method: Three compost types: cocoa pod husk, moringa leaf, and poultry droppings were composted for 60 days in a ratio of 3:1:1, 3:1, and 3:1, respectively. Each compost type was applied at the rate of 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10 t ha-1 with a zero control and an optimal control of NPK 20.10.10 at 200kgha-1. The treatments were 14 which were laid out in RCBD and replicated thrice. The effect of the compost manures was assessed on the growth, yield, and yield components of Okra in two seasons. Results: The results indicated that Compost1, Compost 2, and Compost 3 at a rate of 10 t ha-1 produced significantly (P<0.05) the tallest plants with the least height in the zero control. The leaf area result indicated that Compost1, Compost 2, and Compost 3 at 10 t ha-1 and NPK 20.10.10 produced the largest leaves and highest number of fruits per plant. Fruit yield was highest (P<0.05) in Compost1 at 10 t ha-1 in 2020 and 2021 (8.6t ha-1 and 8.8t ha-1), respectively and the least in the zero control. Conclusion: The result from this study showed that the integration of cocoa pod husk, Moringa leaf, and poultry droppings in composted form is a suitable organic amendment for optimal production of okra in Nigeria-derived savanna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The limitation of the use of some agricultural wastes is their C/N ratio. This study was aimed at integrating cocoa pod husk, moringa leaves, and poultry droppings in composted form for enriched soil amendments for vegetable production. Method: Three compost types: cocoa pod husk, moringa leaf, and poultry droppings were composted for 60 days in a ratio of 3:1:1, 3:1, and 3:1, respectively. Each compost type was applied at the rate of 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10 t ha-1 with a zero control and an optimal control of NPK 20.10.10 at 200kgha-1. The treatments were 14 which were laid out in RCBD and replicated thrice. The effect of the compost manures was assessed on the growth, yield, and yield components of Okra in two seasons. Results: The results indicated that Compost1, Compost 2, and Compost 3 at a rate of 10 t ha-1 produced significantly (P

Introduction: Wound healing of tooth extraction is associated with fibroblasts that are produced during the proliferation phase. The use of herbal extracts is currently being investigated by researchers, as it allows avoiding the side effects of synthetic drugs. Cocoa pod husk extract is one of the alternative herbal ingredients that contains active compounds which have antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This study aims to analyze the effects of the cocoa pod husk extract (Theobroma cacao L.) on wound gap closure and collagen density on tooth extraction socket in rats. Materials and methods: Twenty-four Wistar rats with first molar removed in the left mandibular region divided into three groups: negative control group (CMC-Na gel), positive control group (Alvolgyl), and treatment group (100 mg/ ml cocoa pod husk extract gel). Samples were sacrificed on days 7 and 14 after teeth extraction and gel application. The wound gap closure and collagen density was analized using Masson's Trichrome staining, and determined by image raster software and Adobe Photoshop CS 6.0 software. Data was analyzed using One Way ANOVA and post hoc LSD. Results: The treatment group administered with cocoa pod husk 100 mg/ml extract gel showed a higher average value compared to control groups. There were significant differences in wound gap closure (p<0.05), but the increasing collagen density was not significantly different on 14th day (p>0.05). Conclusion: Cocoa pod husk extract (Theobroma cacao L.) potential increasing wound gap closure and collagen density on rat molar tooth extraction socket. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Theobroma cacao L. is a plant that is reported to have strong antioxidant potential. A study was carried out to determine the antioxidant activity of dichloromethane extract of cocoa pod husk using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). The cocoa pod husk was macerated using n-hexane, ammonia-dichloromethane, and methanol. The TCD extract of cocoa pod husk showed the lowest IC50 value of 14.59 ± 0.54 ppm based on the DPPH inhibition assay. The dichloromethane extract was isolated by gravity column chromatography with Silica gel G60 as the stationary phase and n-hexane: ethyl acetate as the mobile phase (gradient elution system). Fractions with identical staining patterns were combined into six fractions (TCD 1-TCD 6). The TCD 6 showed the lowest IC50 value of 127.05 ± 0.54 ppm according to the DPPH inhibition assay. Based on the TLC results, TCD 4 was further isolated and four fractions (TCD 4.1 to TCD 4.4) were obtained. The TCD 4.4 had the lowest IC50 value (38.66 ± 0.96 ppm). The TCD extract showed the presence of the dominant compound, γ-sitosterol, as determined by GC-MS analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Indonesia is the world's third-largest cocoa producer. Processing cocoa beans into chocolate products generates a substantial amount of cocoa pod husk (CPH) waste. The island of Sulawesi is a major cocoa hub in Indonesia. However, there has been limited exploration of the phytochemical content of cocoa pod husks originating from this region. Materials and methods. The proximate composition was determined using the official AOAC method. A spectrophotometer and GC-MS analysis were used to identify polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins, as well as other chemical compounds in CPH. Results. CPH has an average moisture content of 25.63%, ash content of 8.48%, fat content of 0.65%, protein content of 10.34%, and carbohydrate including fiber content of 54.91%. The total polyphenol content is 98.68 mg GAE/g, flavonoid content is 3.58 mg quercetin/g, and tannin content is 79.12 mg EGCG/g. A total of 23 compounds were identified, and based on their chemical structures, the compounds in CPH are derivatives of terpenoids, fatty acids, and steroids. The largest compound compositions are butyric acid (25.91%), Hexadecanoic acid, Methyl ester (24.35%), 13-Docosenoic acid, Methyl ester, (Z)-(CAS) (11.05%), and 2-Furancarboxaldehyde (8.14%). Butane-1,2,3,4-tetraol (5.44%), 9,12-octadecadienoic acid methyl ester (4.71%), and Methyl 2-hydroxy-3-butenoate (3.67%). Conclusion. The CPH originating from the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia, possesses a bioactive composition that is nearly identical to CPH sourced from various other countries, as well as other regions within Indonesia, despite varying levels. These compounds exhibit beneficial effects on health. However, further evidence and development are still required to verify the health benefits of CPH, both in vitro and in pre-clinical settings, prior to actual human application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many efforts have been made to convert cocoa pod husk waste into charcoal briquettes, but they have not yet met the established Indonesian National Standard (SNI). Therefore, steps are needed to produce charcoal briquettes that comply with these standards. One approach that can be taken is by blending cocoa pod husk with wood charcoal since wood charcoal has a sufficiently high calorific value that can enhance the quality of the charcoal briquettes. This research aims to find the optimal conditions for making briquettes from cocoa pod husk and identify the impact of briquette composition and carbonization time on values such as moisture content, ash content, calorific value, and burning rate of the produced briquettes. The research process includes carbonization, grinding, sieving, adding a binder, and drying, followed by testing the briquettes’ characteristics. This research was conducted by comparing the mass composition of cocoa pod husk charcoal and wood charcoal at ratios of 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, and 25:75, with carbonization times of 1.5, 2, 2.5, and 3 hours. The best analysis results, in accordance with the Indonesian National Standard (SNI), were obtained at a carbonization time of 2 hours with a composition of 50:50 (cocoa pod husk:wood charcoal). The values include a moisture content of 5.944%, ash content of 7.83571%, calorific value of 4388.5 kcal kg -1 , and burning rate of 0.0034 g second -1 . The length of the carbonization process has a significant impact on the characteristics of the resulting briquettes, including moisture content, ash content, calorific value and burning rate. The longer the carbonization process, the lower the moisture content and ash content, and the higher the heating value and burning rate.

Cocoa is considered to be one of the most significant agricultural commodities globally, alongside Palm Oil and Rubber. Cocoa is the primary ingredient in the manufacturing of chocolate, a globally popular food product. Approximately 30 % of cocoa, specifically cocoa nibs, are used as the primary constituent in chocolate production., while the other portion is either discarded in landfills as compost or repurposed as animal feed. Cocoa by-products consist of cocoa pod husk (CPH), cocoa shell, and pulp, of which about 70 % of the fruit is composed of CPH. CPH is a renewable resource rich in dietary fiber, lignin, and bioactive antioxidants like polyphenols that are being underutilized. CPH has the potential to be used as a source of pectin, dietary fibre, antibacterial properties, encapsulation material, xylitol as a sugar substitute, a fragrance compound, and in skin care applications. Several methods can be used to manage CPH waste using green technology and then transformed into valuable commodities, including pectin sources. Innovations in extraction procedures for the production of functional compounds can be utilized to increase yields and enhance existing uses. This review focuses on the physicochemical of CPH, its potential use, waste management, and green technology of cocoa by-products, particularly CPH pectin, in order to provide information for its development.

Cocoa pod husk (CPH) is a good source of bioactive components such as phenolic compounds, which are known to have potential as antioxidants. Research on the effects of postharvest storage conditions on bioactive compounds of CPH is still limited. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of postharvest storage temperature (20, 30, and 40 °C) and time on the physical characteristics, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants of CPH. The results indicated that storage for nine days reduced the color and moisture content of CPH while the texture hardened (especially at 20 and 40 °C). Total phenolic compounds (TPC) increased to 97.9% when CPH was stored at 20 °C for nine days, which was associated with an increase in catechin content and antioxidant activity. The first-order kinetic model was suitable for predicting the kinetics of changes in color, moisture content, hardness, TPC, and DPPH. The calculated Ea values indicated that the storage temperature caused the color of CPH to change easily to brown and the catechin and caffeic acid compounds to form easily. Overall, it is better to store CPH at 20 °C for nine days to increase the quality.

The use of mercury in gold mining adversely affects the ecosystems and has raised concerns, especially in specific areas of Colombia. An alternative to the use of mercury involves using the mucilage of plant species for gold separation. Here we present the use of mucilage extracted from Theobroma cacao L pod husks. The coagulant agent can be obtained by: (i) cutting and macerating cocoa pod husks to obtain the mucilage, (ii) mixing the mucilage with water, and (iii) thermally treating the mucilage until a coagulant is obtained. This research showed that the coagulant agent from cocoa pod husks waste can replace mercury use in artisanal small-scale gold mining in Colombia. Our coagulant agent collects impurities, leaving the gold completely free, with a recovery percentage of 95%. Consequently, we can eliminate the use of mercury from the gold beneficiation process and thereby reduce water, soil, and air contamination. Additionally, by using solid waste as a coagulant agent, this becomes a successful case of circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A major problem retarding the commercialization of biodiesel is the derivation of catalysts and feedstocks from high‐cost materials. Hence, the following proposal is being put forward to mitigate this challenge: Extract and characterize castor oil, synthesize and characterize cocoa pod ash as the base catalyst, and apply the base catalyst for biodiesel production. Cocoa pods were heated at 600 °C for 35 min in a muffle furnace and the product sieved to obtain ash with uniform size distribution. The yield of castor oil extracted was 42 %, and the synthesized catalyst was capable of transesterifying the extracted oil. Castor oil was converted to biodiesel with cocoa pod ash as catalyst. A biodiesel yield of 88 % was obtained. The catalyst was characterized by various methods to confirm the presence of active sites. The physicochemical properties of the biodiesel product are consistent with literature values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous carbon materials for adsorption applications are regarded as one of the most viable water cleaning strategies. Cocoa pod husk (CPH) was treated with two-step catalytic pyrolysis employing hydroxides and carbonates of sodium and potassium to synthesise activated carbon for methylene blue (MB) decolourisation. Dye adsorption assessment of activated carbon prepared with various activators (NaOH, KOH, Na2CO3 and K2CO3) established KOH-derived activated carbon as a superior absorbent. Upon impregnation ratio optimisation with KOH, CPHAC-3K (CPH: KOH of 3) prepared at 800°C acquired a BET surface area, pore volume and pore size of 1688.4 m2/g, 0.76 cm3/g and 1.25 nm, respectively. The maximum MB adsorption capacity of CPHAC-3K was 445 mg/g, demonstrating an impressive adsorption property compared with literature. The dye adsorption of CPHAC-3K was mainly attributed to its excellent textural property (microporous) and numerous oxygen-containing functional groups on the surface, as shown by BET and FTIR studies, respectively. Adsorption investigations demonstrated that the Langmuir adsorption isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetic model effectively represented the adsorption process, with a considerable contribution from electrostatic and π-π interactions, pore filling and hydrogen bonding. This work established that CPHAC-3K generated through an optimised preparation process and conditions may be used as an efficient adsorbent compared to some previously reported biomass-based activated carbon to remove cationic dyes from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we have successfully synthesized a high surface area of activated carbons (ACs) from cocoa pod husk (CPH) by using a combination of hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) and chemical activation in the presence of ZnCl2 as both of catalyst as well as activating agent. During HTC, the effect of HTC temperature (200 and 225℃) and ZnCl2 to biomass mass ratio (1:1, 2:1, 3:1) as a catalyst to the characteristics of the obtained hydrochar (HC) and ACs were investigated. The obtained hydrochar (HCs) was then processed by using ZnCl2 chemical activation with a fixed HC to ZnCl2 mass ratio of 1:4 and the mixture was pyrolyzed at 600 ℃ for 1 h under an inert atmosphere. The results showed that the addition of catalyst during HTC presented different AC morphology, where the carbon samples were decorated with carbon microspheres. An increase of surface area was observed, where the ACs synthesized from catalyzed HC at biomass to ZnCl2 ratio of 1:3 at temperature 200 ℃ gave a higher surface area of 1954 m2/g compared to that of without catalyst (1165 m²/g). The catalysis effect was more profound at the HTC temperature of 200 ℃ compared to 225 ℃, as reflected in the significant increase of AC surface area. The addition of a catalyst creates ACs with narrow pore distribution compared to that of synthesized in the absence of a catalyst. It was also observed that the ACs from catalyzed hydrochar possessed higher oxygenated functional groups (OFG) than those without catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cocoa-producing nations, including Indonesia, play a pivotal role in global cocoa production, with cocoa beans as a primary agricultural commodity. Despite this, cocoa pod husks (CPH) have historically been dismissed as household waste. This study investigates the untapped potential of CPH for bioethanol production, focusing on the influence of fermentation duration on hydrolysis products. Using 1.5 N sulfuric acid, cocoa pods underwent a 120-minute hydrolysis with a 1.9 g/mL concentration/solvent ratio. Subsequent fermentation involved a 10% Saccharomyces cerevisiae starter culture at 30°C and pH 5 under anaerobic conditions. Mass chromatography spectroscopy revealed a progressive ethanol increase, peaking at 4.21% volume on the seventh day, and a substantial reduction in remaining sugar content from 18.45% to 5.53%. These findings underscore the correlation between prolonged fermentation and enhanced ethanol production. The study highlights CPH's potential as a valuable resource for sustainable bioethanol production, reducing waste and offering a renewable energy source. Emphasizing resource optimization and environmental stewardship in agriculture, this research aligns with the global demand for eco-friendly alternatives in the energy sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) pod husk is a solid waste originating from the cocoa beans processing industry in very abundant quantities. The components that make up the cocoa pod husk include cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Cocoa pod husk has a large cellulose content, so it has the potential to be used as cellulose-based bioproducts such as bioethanol. This study aimed to determine the optimum power, irradiation time, and concentration of oxalic acid in the cocoa pod husk microwave-pre-treatment delignification process. The cacao pod husk used in this study is a forastero variety from Pakuwon, Sukabumi, West Java, Indonesia. Cocoa pod husk raw material contains lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose, respectively 15.73%, 40.14%, and 19.33%. The optimal conditions obtained using the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) model with factors that affect the process are power, irradiation time, and concentration of oxalic acid with response levels of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin after microwave pre-treatment. The results of the optimum conditions of power, irradiation time, and concentration of oxalic acid in the microwave assisted-pre-treatment process were 450 Watt, 10 minutes, dan 1%, respectively. The optimum conditions in the delignification process resulted in the levels of lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose, respectively, which were 8.10%, 39.37%, dan 21.40%. Based on the lignocellulosic test at optimum conditions, the lignin decreased by 48.506%, cellulose decreased by 1.918%, and hemicellulose content increased by 10.709%. The results indicated optimum conditions could be applied in bioethanol and xylitol production

Background: Theobroma cacao bean manufacturing worldwide includes undesired byproducts such as cocoa pod husks. Cocoa pods contain a variety of beneficial chemicals, including polyphenols. Polyphenols have a vital function in the treatment of many illnesses and infections of the oral cavity. This is due to their vital qualities in the oral cavity, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant actions. Purpose: The goal of this study was to look at the antioxidant content and antibacterial activity of cocoa pod husk extract (Theobroma cacao L.) against Phorphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans). Methods: Cocoa pod husk extract was produced using an ultrasonic homogenizer and 70% ethanol. Thin layer chromatography and the Folin–Ciocalteu test were used to determine the phytochemical content and total phenolic content of the extract. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate technique was used to measure antioxidant activity. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) tests were used to measure the antibacterial activity of ethanolic extract at concentrations of 1, 4, 8, 16, 32, and 64 mg/ml using a deep-well broth microdilution technique. Results: The presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and triterpenoids was discovered in the cocoa pod husk extract. Conclusion: The antioxidant activity of the extract was significant (IC50 = 62 ppm), and the MIC of P. gingivalis and S. mutans was 16 mg/ml and 8 mg/ml, respectively.

Cocoa pod husks (CPH) are usually disposed of from the farm, and this can lead to environmental problems, such as being a breeding ground for the cocoa pod borer. This study aimed to determine the nutritional composition and concentration of ultra-trace elements (As, Cd, Pb & Hg) in CPH. The optimization of the extraction conditions of CPH in response to the ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) by using response surface methodology (RSM) was also conducted. The findings show that the total carbohydrate and crude fibre content of CPH are high (35.75% & 35.47%, respectively) while having low levels of moisture, ash, crude protein, and fat (11.86%. 8.60%, 7.46% & 0.86, respectively). In addition, the results demonstrate that CPH has a low content of toxic metals As, Cd, Pb, and Hg (0.0046 mg/kg, 0.0028 mg/kg, 0.0011 mg/kg & 0.00003 mg/kg respectively) which is considered as a safe range. The optimized extraction conditions were a solvent concentration of 93.64%, a temperature of 38.18°C, and a time of 73.64 min. The actual value of the flavonoid content of CPH obtained was 1038.94 µmoL Fe2+/L, which is acceptable compared to the predicted value of 1039.40 µmoL Fe2+/L. The discovery from this research represents a significant contribution towards finding cocoa pod husk from a plentiful, affordable, and feasible source, which could potentially be used in various fields such as pharmaceutical, medical, and nutraceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of cocoa pod husk extract. The extract contains various compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and triterpenoids. It has been found to have significant antioxidant activity and can inhibit the growth of bacteria like Phorphyromonas gingivalis and Streptococcus mutans. These findings suggest that cocoa pod husk extract could be a natural option for oral health treatment. However, more research is needed to fully support these claims and explore its potential applications in the pharmaceutical and food industries. [Extracted from the article]

The efficiency of ZnCl2-activated cocoa pod husk charcoal (ACPHC) in removing Pb(II), Cu(II) and Cd(II) ions from aqueous solution was investigated under different conditions of shaking speed, contact time, adsorbent dose, adsorbate concentration, pH, and temperature with a view to widening the applications of the husk. Adsorption equilibrium, kinetics and desorption studies were conducted. Activated carbon produced at 650 °C was found to give the best desired properties. The optimum shaking time and pH value were 45 min and 6. The shaking speed of 700 rpm gave maximum removal efficiency (mean ± sd) 97.02 ± 0.34%, 96.24 ± 0.19%, and 96.85 ± 0.01% for Pb(II), Cu(II), and Cd(II) ions at the optimum pH, 25 °C, and 0.1 g adsorbent/25 ml solution with adsorption capacities of 2.426, 2.406, and 2.421 mg/g, respectively. While the average capacity at the optimum contact time was 2.290 mg/g. Non-linear Temkin and Redlich–Peterson and linear Langmuir isotherm models gave the best description of the adsorption equilibrium of the metal ions onto ACPHC surface, while pseudo-second order kinetics model gave the best description of the adsorption kinetics. The rate of removal of the metal ions was in the order Pb(II) > Cu(II) > Cd(II). The regeneration of the spent adsorbent was efficient with respect to the considered metal ions. The recovery values were 96.72 ± 0.43%, 92.76 ± 0.49%, and 91.66 ± 0.34% for Pb(II), Cu(II), and Cd(II) ions, respectively. Thus ACPHC was found to be an efficient low-cost material for the removal of the studied metal ions from aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lentinula edodes is known to show high nutritional and organoleptic properties and can be mixed with different by-products in the production of new foods with important functional characteristics. Cocoa pod husk (CPH) is the main by-product in the cocoa industry and presents important bioactivities. In this research, two mixtures were applied based on Lentinula edodes mushroom flour from fifty different strains (strain 1 to strain 50) and cocoa pod husk flour (CPHF): 60% Lentinula edodes mushroom flour from each strain mixed with 40% CPHF (Mixture 1), and 80% Lentinula edodes mushroom flour from each strain mixed with 20% CPHF (Mixture 2). The parameters evaluated were moisture, proteins, fat, total dietary fiber (TDF), ash, carbohydrates, antioxidant capacity, antimicrobial activity, pH and water activity (aw). The multivariate statistical techniques evaluated those samples that exhibited the highest degree of correlation with the distinct chemical and commercial parameters, showing that sample 13 of both mixture flours (M1 and M2) obtained by the mushrooms of L. edodes (strain 13) with CPH indicated the higher significant of the parameters. In addition, the sensory test of the best flour (sample 13) was applied to 50 panelists, presenting the best sensory characteristics, such as color, aroma, texture and general acceptability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cocoa pod husk (CPH) and cocoa bean shell (CBS) are cocoa by-products that remain after cocoa bean extraction and often become environmental pollutants (cocoa waste). Numerous studies have demonstrated that both of them are sources of bioactive compounds. This review outlines the potential effects of cocoa waste on health and discusses current knowledge regarding the health potential of cocoa waste. Most of the research on this topic has been conducted in vitro and has shown some potential health benefits of cocoa waste products, both for CPH and CBS. Cocoa waste can influence body weight and food intake, increase serum protein concentrations, lower blood pressure, exhibit hypolipidemic effects, elevate HDL, act as an antidiabetic, possess antibacterial properties, and serve as an antioxidant that combats inflammation and reduces MDA levels. Cocoa waste holds significant potential for health, although its effectiveness is still largely studied in vitro. Further research is needed to demonstrate in vivo the potential of bioactive compounds from cocoa shell waste products to address various health issues, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cocoa pod husk, a waste in most cocoa farms, has recently received alternative uses in various industries. To cocoa farmers, potash and black soap are their main products from the husk. This alternative use presents an excellent opportunity for improving the livelihoods of cocoa farmers. Nevertheless, there is sparse evidence of farmers' willingness to produce black soap and its potential implication on their welfare. We employed a multistage sampling approach to close this gap to draw data from 150 cocoa farmers from Ahafo Ano North District, Ghana. We analysed the data with binary probit, ordered probit and Inverse Probability Weighted Regression Adjustment. We found that marital status, membership of FBO, knowledge of black soap production, and credit access influence farmers' willingness to produce (WTP) black soap. Again, gender, marital status, age, farm income, farming experience and knowledge of black soap have a significant but heterogeneous effect on the tipping point that stimulates farmers' willingness to accept (WTA) black soap production. The impact assessment revealed that black soap production has substantial welfare gains. Thus, it increases farmer's per capita expenditure. Therefore, stakeholders like the Cocoa Research Institute, Ghana COCOBOD and cocoa-licensed buying companies should invest in procuring portable ashing kilns at subsidised prices and train farmers on packaging and labelling to expedite, revitalise and modernise black soap production. Notwithstanding, future research could look at the profitability analysis of black soap production.

The present work aimed to use cocoa pod husk (CPH) and its extracted pectin as a potential substrate for the production of pectinase and to test the enzyme produced in the clarification process of apple juice. CPH with a particle size of Aspergillus niger NRRL 2270. The optimization of the physicochemical conditions of the production medium led to an enzymatic activity of 602.03 U/g dry CPH, which was obtained under the following conditions: 110.25 g/L of CPH, 5% w/v pectin extract, 0.05 g/L of yeast extract, incubation at 28 °C, and pH 4, representing a 176% increase in enzymatic activity under the evaluated conditions. The production kinetics of pectinase showed maximum enzymatic activity at 96 h. Subsequently, the enzymatic extract was precipitated, microfiltered, and ultrafiltrated, resulting in 4852.50 U/mg of specific activity. The enzymatic activity after recovery and purification processes corresponded to 819 U/g dry CPH. Finally, a clarification stage of apple juice was carried out, in which the produced pectinase (CauPec) showed turbidity of 448.89 NTU compared to 417.89 NTU for the commercial enzyme and a viscosity of 1.86 cP, CauPec, and 1.19 cP, commercial pectinase, as well as soluble solids of 8.0 for commercial pectinase and 8.73 for CauPec. Therefore, it can be concluded that CPH and its pectin extract were excellent substrates for the production of pectinases, whose formulation is highly stable and can be applied in the clarification of apple juice.

Cocoa pod husk (CPH) is the main by-product of cocoa processing, which is rich in fiber and antioxidants. Most cocoa husk waste is generally still used as fertilizer and animal feed. Some studies tried to process cocoa pod husk into flour as a functional ingredient. One of the healthy snacks that most people like is dumpling crackers. This study aimed to determine the optimal formulation to produce dumpling crackers as a functional food. The material used in this research is cocoa pod husk from local farmers in Banjaroya village, Kalibawang, Kulonprogo, D.I. Yogyakarta. The research was conducted at the Agroindustrial Product Engineering Laboratory, Agroindustry Product Development Study Program, Vocational School, Gadjah Mada University in June 2022. The ingredients for making dumpling crackers are wheat flour and cocoa husk flour. Parameters observed included crispness, crude fiber content, and antioxidant activity. Optimization was conducted using two factors, X1 (cocoa pod husk flour) and X2 (wheat flour). Three levels of CPH flour (0, 2, and 4g) and wheat flour (10, 20, and 330g) were used for the experiment. Data collection was carried out in three replications, and the experimental value was expressed as mean ± standard deviation (SD). In addition, central composite design (CCD), analysis of variance (ANOVA), and optimization were carried out using Minitab 16 with a 95% confidence level for each response variable. The results showed that adding CPH powder to the dumping cracker formulation did not affect the level of crispness and antioxidant activity but significantly affected the fiber content. At the best formulation of 4g cocoa pod husk flour and 23,131g wheat flour, the crispness was 3,314, crude fiber content was 2,87%, and antioxidant activity was 61,2269, with a composite desirability value was 0,8597. It can be said that the addition of cocoa pod husk powder in the formulation of dumpling crackers can increase the fiber content of the product.

Partial replacement of conventional fuel in IC engines with gaseous biofuels from biomass is one of the best options to implement biomass in decentralized power generation. In this work, a compression ignition engine, which is generally used in small-scale power generation, has been tested to work on diesel and producer gas of cocoa pod husks (CPH). The engine was modified to work with dual-fuel as well as multiple compression ratios. The central composite design has been used for the optimization of operating and performance parameters. At CR 18, performance parameters such as BTE and DRR were high, whereas the BSFC and SEC were low. During the DF mode, the overall diesel replacement was 72.57%. Moreover, the brake thermal efficiencies were 22.18% and 27.17% for CR 12 and CR 18, respectively. At optimum conditions, the CO, NOx, HC, and smoke emissions were 0.17 vol%, 250.06 ppm, 19.94 ppm, and 22.81%, respectively. The performance of the engine showed that CPH could be a potential feedstock to supply cleaner gaseous fuel for the dual-fuel operation. Moreover, the prediction from the study suggested that response surface methodology could be an appropriate approach to evaluate the optimum working conditions of dual-fuel engine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Blue light exposure has been shown to induce ROS generation and subsequent inflammatory pathways that lead to cell death, in which antioxidants could counteract this effect. Although regarded as waste, cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) Pod Husk (CPH) possesses a high polyphenolic contents, which could serve as antioxidants. Objectives: To characterize CPH ethanolic extract based on its antioxidant capacity and observe the cytoprotective ability of CPH in vitro upon blue light exposure. Materials and Methods: CPH ethanolic extract was characterized through total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and three antioxidant assays, then treated on HaCaT cells, in which cell viability was measured through MTS assay. Results: CPH extract showed high phenolic and flavonoid contents and high antioxidant capacity through DPPH and FRAP assay. CPH extract started to exert cytotoxicity from concentrations of 400 μg/mL and above, while 100 μg/mL and above in AA. Furthermore, CPH extract showed significant cytoprotective effect at 50 μg/mL at 11.92 ± 0.83% cell viability increase, wherein AA failed to protect HaCaT cells at the same concentration at 15.79 ± 0.72% cell viability decrease. Conclusion: CPH could serve as an alternative as blue light protection agent as it was safe to be used at higher concentrations and was able to protect HaCaT cells from blue light irradiation better than AA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This study investigated the potentials of crop residues to improve the growth and yield of plantain as well as its proximate compositions.Method Biochar, Cocoa pod husk and Rice bran were applied at the rates 4, 6, 8, and 10 tons/hectare after three weeks of sucker establishment on experimental plots. The experiments were carried out in two different locations; FUTA and Ejigbo, and were laid out in a completely randomized block design with four replications. The following growth parameters including leaf number, plant height, stem girth, leaf area, and sucker number were monitored for six consecutive months commencing from 90 days after sucker establishment while the yield parameters including bunch weight, finger number, finger girth, bunch length, and yield per hectare were determined during harvesting. These parameters were determined for both parents and ratoon. Also, the proximate composition of the plantain was determined.Results There was no statistically significant difference for all the growth parameters determined in both FUTA and Ejigbo locations for both the parent and ratoon crops except the leaf area which increased significantly in amended soils compared to the control. All amendments produced higher bunch weight, finger number, and yield per hectare compared to the control. The different soil amendments did not alter the proximate compositions of the plantain significantly for the two locations.Conclusion It is therefore concluded that crop residues especially cocoa pod husk at the rate of 10 tons/hectare be used as alternative to mineral fertilizers to enhance soil health and productivity.

Periodontitis is a destructive inflammatory disease of the periodontal tissues with a high prevalence in the world. Phorphyromonas gingivalis as one of the main bacteria causing periodontitis produces virulence factors that trigger immune cells to produce proinflammatory cytokines that can reduce the number of osteoblasts, thereby triggering alveolar bone resorption. Osteoblast cell differentiation is mediated by a number of growth factors such as cytokines and bone morphogenic proteins (BMPs). SRP mechanical therapy is sometimes not optimal and Metronidazole as an effective antibiotic against periodontitis has been reported to have several adverse effects. Utilization of cocoa pod waste (Theobroma cacao L) with its polyphenol content has antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This study aims to determine the effect of ethanol extract gel from cocoa pod husk extract (Theobroma cacao L.) on the number of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, as well as the expression of BMP-2 in the alveolar bone of periodontitis-model rats. This laboratory experimental study used 24 rats which were divided into negative control group (CMC-Na gel), positive control group (metronidazole gel), and treatment group (100 mg/mL cocoa pod husk extract gel). 24 Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups which were observed on days 7 and 14. The number of osteoblasts and osteoclasts of alveolar bone were observed by hematoxillin eosin staining and BMP-2 expression by immunohistochemistry staining. Oneway ANOVA test showed that there was a significant difference (p < 0.05) between groups. The LSD test average of BMP-2 expression in the treatment group on the day 7 and day 14 was higher than the negative control group (p < 0.05). The conclusion of the study was that giving 100 mg/mL of cacao pod husk extract gel (Theobroma cacao L.) increased the number of osteoblasts and increased the expression of BMP-2 in the alveolar bone of periodontitis rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The valorization of residual biomass (cob husk, mucilage exudate and seed shell) generated during the production and processing of cocoa represents a great opportunity in our country to improve the sustainability of this productive activity. However, the lack of an organizational structure for the productive and administrative management puts its viability at a disadvantage. Here, it has been identified that the three components of this residual biomass, in addition to being a source of important nutrients, are rich in organic compounds (polyphenols, organic acids, methylxanthine...). In this sense, the purpose of this work is to lay the foundations of an ecosystem approach based on the chemical composition of cocoa residual biomass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potentials of biochar derived from cocoa pod husk are currently being explored to improve soil fertility, enhance crop production and prevent the deleterious effect of inorganic fertiliser on the environment. Field investigations were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of NPK fertiliser fortified with biochar on the growth and yield performance of okra, Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench, relative to inorganic fertiliser. Treatments involved NPK only applied at 30 and 60 kg N/ha, NPK at 30 kg N/ha together with biochar at 2.5 t/ha, NPK at 60 kg N/ha together with biochar at 5 t/ha and a control treatment, without fertiliser or biochar application, laid out in a randomised complete block design with three replications. Growth and yield parameters, plant height, number of leaves, fruit yield, nutrient uptake, post-cropping effects on soil properties were determined. Data were analysed using ANOVA. Growth and yields from the treatment with NPK at 60 kg N/ha, together with 5 t/ha biochar, were significantly (P = 0.05) highest, than other treatments, and partial budget analysis indicated highest marginal rate of returns for this treatment. Soil pH improvement underscored the beneficial effect of NPK fortified with biochar on the nutrition of okra plants, confirming that these materials could be utilised for crop production in the soil of the experimental site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This study investigated the potentials of crop residues to improve the growth and yield of plantain as well as its proximate compositions. Method Biochar, Cocoa pod husk and Rice bran were applied at the rates 4, 6, 8, and 10 tons per hectare after three weeks of sucker establishment on experimental plots. The experiments were carried out in two different locations; FUTA and Ejigbo, and were laid out in a completely randomized block design with four replications. The following growth parameters including leaf number, plant height, stem girth, leaf area, and sucker number were monitored for six consecutive months commencing from 90 days after sucker establishment while the yield parameters including bunch weight, finger number, finger girth, bunch length, and yield per hectare were determined during harvesting. These parameters were determined for both parents and ratoon. Also, the proximate composition of the plantain was determined. Results There was no statistically significant difference for all the growth parameters determined in both FUTA and Ejigbo locations for both the parent and ratoon crops except the leaf area which increased significantly in amended soils compared to the control. All amendments produced higher bunch weight, finger number, and yield per hectare compared to the control. The different soil amendments did not alter the proximate compositions of the plantain significantly for the two locations. Conclusion It is therefore concluded that crop residues especially cocoa pod husk at the rate of 10 tons/hectare be used as alternative to mineral fertilizers to enhance soil health and productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Theobroma cacao L. species, cultivated worldwide for its valuable beans, generates up to 72% weight of the fruit as waste. The lack of reutilization technologies in the cocoa agroindustry has hindered the exploitation of valuable bio-components applicable to the generation of high value added bioproducts. One such bioproduct is microfibrillated cellulose (MFC), a biopolymer that stands out for its desirable mechanical properties and biocompatibility in biomedical, packing, 3D printing, and construction applications. In this study, we isolated microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) from cocoa pod husk (CPH) via oxalic acid hydrolysis combined with a steam explosion. MFC isolation started with the Solid/Liquid extraction via Soxhlet, followed by mild citric acid hydrolysis, diluted alkaline hydrolysis, and bleaching pre-treatments. A Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the hydrolysis reaction at levels between 110 and 125 °C, 30–90 min at 5–10% (w/v) oxalic acid concentration. The cellulose-rich fraction was characterized by Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analyses. Characterization analyses revealed a cellulose-rich polymer with fibers ranging from 6 to 10 μm, a maximum thermal degradation temperature of 350 °C, and a crystallinity index of 63.4% (peak height method) and 29.0% (amorphous subtraction method). The optimized hydrolysis conditions were 125 °C, 30 min, at 5% w/v oxalic acid: with a 75.7% yield. These results compare with MFC obtained through highly concentrated inorganic acid hydrolysis from different biomass sources. Thus, we show a reliable and greener alternative chemical treatment for the obtention of MFC.

Dilute acid hydrolysis is the most common and effective method for converting lignocellulosic substrates into fermentable sugars. However, this hydrolysis partially degrades the lignin into phenolic compounds (PC), inhibiting the fermentation medium by retaining it in the hydrolyzate. Response surface methodology is a modeling and optimization technique used to examine the effect of multiple factors on a given response. In this study, shows the removal of PC from cocoa pod husks hydrolyzate, while preserving a considerable level of reducing sugar (RS). An Alkalinization from pH 11 with NaOH, then readjustment of pH to 6 with H2SO4 were first carried out, while eliminating 89.39% of PC and 13.41% of sugars. Then, an optimization of the activated carbon detoxification of the hydrolyzate was carried out by considering the contact time factors (X1), carbon to hydrolyzate ratio (X2) and the agitation speed (X3) in a Box-Behnken plan. The optimal conditions were 60 min of contact, a carbon to hydrolyzate ratio of 1.984% (w/v), and a stirring speed of 180 revolutions per minute (rpm). 0.153 mg/mL of PC and 6.585 mg/mL of RS remained in the hydrolyzate, corresponding to 95.18% of PC and 28.88% of RS lost.

Lentinula edodes is known to show high nutritional and organoleptic properties and can be mixed with different by-products in the production of new foods with important functional characteristics. Cocoa pod husk (CPH) is the main by-product in the cocoa industry and presents important bioactivities. In this research, two mixtures were applied based on Lentinula edodes mushroom flour from fifty different strains (strain 1 to strain 50) and cocoa pod husk flour (CPHF): 60% Lentinula edodes mushroom flour from each strain mixed with 40% CPHF (Mixture 1), and 80% Lentinula edodes mushroom flour from each strain mixed with 20% CPHF (Mixture 2). The parameters evaluated were moisture, proteins, fat, total dietary fiber (TDF), ash, carbohydrates, antioxidant capacity, antimicrobial activity, pH and water activity (aw). The multivariate statistical techniques evaluated those samples that exhibited the highest degree of correlation with the distinct chemical and commercial parameters, showing that sample 13 of both mixture flours (M1 and M2) obtained by the mushrooms of L. edodes (strain 13) with CPH indicated the higher significant of the parameters. In addition, the sensory test of the best flour (sample 13) was applied to 50 panelists, presenting the best sensory characteristics, such as color, aroma, texture and general acceptability.

Optimization of pectin extraction from cocoa pod husk was carried out to examine independent variables that affect the quality of pectin obtained and determine the best conditions for the extraction process. In this study, three independent variables thought to contribute to microwave-assisted pectin extraction were used, namely, extraction time (20, 25, and 30 min), microwave power (180, 300, and 450 W), and citric acid concentration (2.5%, 5%, and 10%). Response surface methodology was applied using central composite design (CCD) to examine the effect of independent variables on the parameter measured. Among the seven parameters measured, namely, yield, temperature, moisture content, ash content, equivalent weight, methoxyl content, and galacturonic acid content, the statistical analysis test showed that the model equations that were suitable for predicting response values were temperature, moisture content, and ash content. Therefore, the optimization of conditions was only reviewed for these three parameters. Optimization results concluded that the factors that had the most significant effect on temperature, moisture content, and ash content were extraction time and microwave power. Optimal conditions for pectin extraction were at 30 min extraction time, 450 W microwave power, and 10% solvent concentration, resulting in a temperature of 104 °C, moisture content of 6%, and ash content of 8%. Other parameter values measured under these conditions were a yield of 21.10%, equivalent weight of 602.40 mg/mol, methoxyl content of 6.07%, and galacturonic acid content of 72.86%. Pectin extracted from cocoa pod husk using this method has the potential to be further applied, especially in the food and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated the effect of cocoa pod husk (CPH) processing (microwave [MW], forced‐air drying [FAD], and FAD plus extrusion [FAD‐E]), and in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on the in vitro human colonic fermentation metabolism, in vitro bioactivity on human HT‐29 colon cancer cell, and the in silico mechanism of selected compounds. CPH as a substrate for human colonic microbiota significantly decrease local pH (MW −0.7, FAD −0.2, and FAD‐E −0.3, 24 h) and modifies their metabolic activity (short‐chain fatty acids [SCFAs] production). FAD‐E generated the highest butyric (7.6 mM/L, 4 h) and FAD the highest acetic and propionic acid levels (71.4 and 36.7 mM/L, 24 h). The in vitro colonic fermented FAD‐E sample (FE/FAD‐E) caused HT‐29 colorectal cancer cells death by inducing damage on membrane integrity and inhibiting (up to 92%) histone‐deacetylase (HDAC) activity. In silico results showed that chlorogenic acid, (−)‐epicatechin, and (+)‐catechin, followed by butyric and propionic acids, are highly involved in the HDAC6 inhibitory activity. The results highlight the potential human health postbiotic benefits of CPH consumption, mediated by colonic microbiota‐derived metabolites. Practical Application: The enormous amount of CPH (10 tons/1 ton of dry beans) generated by the cocoa industry can be used as a removable source of bioactive compounds with physicochemical functionality and health bioactivity. However, their potential applications and health benefits are insufficiently explored. CPH represents a serious disposal problem; practical and innovative ideas to use this highly available and affordable material are urgent. Research exploring their potential applications can increase the sustainability of the cocoa agro‐industry. This paper highlights the value addition that can be achieved with this valuable industrial co‐product, generating new functional products and ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cocoa liquor, butter, and powder represent derived products from a small portion of the fruits, compared with the cocoa pod husk (CPH) which accounts for ∼ 70 % of fresh weight. CPH, improperly disposed in plantations, can cause diseases threatening worldwide chocolate production. However, this biomass can be a potential source of bioactive compounds aligned with the circular economy. An overview on the different methods for extracting pectin, resulting in variable extraction yields with a critical discussion on the obtained physicochemical characteristics, is presented. Additionally, the potential applications of the extracted pectin for food and biomedical application are discussed, including thickener, stabilizer, excipient, drug‐release modifier, macrophage activator, etc. Despite these potential outputs, new extraction methods need to be considered for improving efficiency and sustainability. Finally, potential approaches are introduced that can help to minimize the environmental impact, making the extraction cost‐ and time‐efficient, and, therefore, more ssustainable for a further successful translation to industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many researchers have paid attention to Theobroma cocoa pod husk for its bioactive phytoconstituents which have several medicinal benefits. Herein, we aim to evaluate the methanolic extract from T. cocoa pod husk and its partitions for their anticancer and antiretroviral activities. Methods: The T. cocoa pod husk was macerated using methanol, and then sequentially partitioned with n-hexane and ethyl acetate. MCF-7 and HeLa cells were used to assess the anticancer activities, while the simian retrovirus-2 (SRV-2)-infected A549 cells were used for antiretroviral study. The ethyl acetate partition (TCEA) was then fractionated and screened for in-vitro antioxidant and cytotoxicity. The most active fraction was sub-fractionated and analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). Results: The results suggested that TCEA had moderate and weak activities against MCF-7 (IC 50=53.91 μg/mL) and HeLa cells (IC 50=120.71 μg/mL), respectively. TCEA 125 μg/mL had higher anti-SRV-2 activity in comparison with lamivudine 25 μg/mL after 1—7 days of incubation. The GC-MS analysis of the polyphenol-predominated sub-fraction from the most active fraction revealed the presence of lupeol, syringaresinol, catechol, and squalene. Conclusions: TCEA derived from the methanolic extract of T. cacao pod husk had moderate activity against MCF-7 cells and weak activity against HeLa cells. Antiretroviral study suggests that TCEA 125 μg/mL had higher inhibitory activity against SRV-2 replication as compared to lamivudine 25 μg/mL.

Cellulose is a non-toxic, bio-degradable, and renewable biopolymer which is abundantly available in nature. The most common source of commercial microcrystalline cellulose is fibrous wood pulp. Cellulose and its derivatives have found wide commercial applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food, paper, textile, and engineering industries. This study aims to isolate and characterize cellulose forms from cocoa pod husk (CPH) and to assess its mechanical and disintegration properties as a direct compression excipient in metronidazole tablets. Two isolated cellulose types (i.e., cocoa alpha-cellulose (CAC) and cocoa microcrystalline cellulose (C-MCC)) were compared with avicel (AV). CAC and C-MCC were characterized for their physicochemical properties using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), FTIR spectroscopy, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and X-Ray Powder Diffraction (XRD). Metronidazole tablets were produced by direct compression with cellulose. The mechanical and disintegration properties of the tablets were evaluated. CAC and C-MCC yield was 42.3% w/w and 38.25% w/w, respectively. Particle diameters were significantly different with CAC (282.22 μm) > C-MCC (161.32 μm) > AV (72.51 μm). CAC and C-MCC had a better flow than AV. SEM revealed the fibrous nature of the cellulose. FTIR and XRD analysis confirmed the presence of cellulose with crystallinity index of 69.26%, 43.83%, and 26.32% for AV, C-MCC, and CAC, respectively. C-MCC and AV are more crystalline and thermally stable at high temperatures compared to CAC. The mechanical and disintegration properties of C-MCC and AV tablets complied with pharmacopeia specifications. Taken together, C-MCC isolated from CPH displayed some fundamental characteristics suitable for use as a pharmaceutical excipient and displayed better properties compared to that of AV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cocoa is considered to be one of the most significant agricultural commodities globally, alongside Palm Oil and Rubber. Cocoa is the primary ingredient in the manufacturing of chocolate, a globally popular food product. Approximately 30 % of cocoa, specifically cocoa nibs, are used as the primary constituent in chocolate production., while the other portion is either discarded in landfills as compost or repurposed as animal feed. Cocoa by-products consist of cocoa pod husk (CPH), cocoa shell, and pulp, of which about 70 % of the fruit is composed of CPH. CPH is a renewable resource rich in dietary fiber, lignin, and bioactive antioxidants like polyphenols that are being underutilized. CPH has the potential to be used as a source of pectin, dietary fibre, antibacterial properties, encapsulation material, xylitol as a sugar substitute, a fragrance compound, and in skin care applications. Several methods can be used to manage CPH waste using green technology and then transformed into valuable commodities, including pectin sources. Innovations in extraction procedures for the production of functional compounds can be utilized to increase yields and enhance existing uses. This review focuses on the physicochemical of CPH, its potential use, waste management, and green technology of cocoa by-products, particularly CPH pectin, in order to provide information for its development., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could be perceived as having influenced the work described in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

The poor quality of cow dung in Ghana resulting from the opportunistic feeding mode of cattle impedes its adoption due to high quantities needed for application. This calls for nutrient optimization of cattle manure with inexpensive locally available sources of organic inputs that could enhance its quality. Though large volumes of crop residues and other agro-wastes are produced on-farm, they are underutilized and mostly a nuisance. Major food crops take approximately, 44 %, 42 % and 56 % of the total nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), respectively and are found in crop residues. There is therefore the need to develop appropriate technologies for utilizing agro-wastes by transforming them into useful “resources” with potentially available plant macro and micronutrients. Common agro-wastes in Ghana include cocoa pod husk (CPH), palm kernel cake (PKC), cattle manure (CM) and poultry manure. Hence, this review sought to explore the use of crop residues and agro-minerals to improve the quality of manure and consequently its fertilizer value for soil fertility improvement and increased crop yield. The review presented an assessment of resource potentials of some crop residues and local agro-mineral as a means of enhancing the quality of CM. Using published data, the review has identified that PKC, rock phosphate (RP) and CPH have high potential for improving the N, P and K contents of CM, respectively. In conclusion, it recommends the need to extensively explore the potential of other commonly available organic resource materials for their efficacy to improve the fertilizer value of cattle manure.

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of different dehydration conditions (sun drying; hot-air drying at 60, 80 and 100 °C; vacuum drying at 60 °C, 80 and 100 °C; infrared drying at 35, 40 and 45 °C; microwave drying at 270, 450 and 720 W) on the retention of phytochemical compounds and antioxidant activity of cocoa pod husk (Theobroma cacao L.). The finding shows that microwave drying at 720 W took shortest drying time (0.83 h) and retained the highest levels of total phenolics (12.22 mg GAE/g dried sample) and total saponins (31.51 mg EE/g dried sample), which exhibited the greatest antioxidant capacity in terms of ABTS radical scavenging capacity, DPPH radical scavenging capacity, cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity and ferric reducing antioxidant power (12.30, 5.81, 12.40 and 8.57 mg TE/g dried sample, respectively). HPLC analysis of methanol extract from cocoa pod husk prepared by microwave drying at 720 W found seven phytochemical compounds including gallic acid, theobromine, theophylline, (+)-catechin, (-)-epicatechin, (-)-epigallocatechin and (-)-epigallocatechin gallate. The outcomes obtained from this study reveals that cocoa pod husk is a rich source of phytochemical compounds for further application in the nutraceutical or functional food industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]