Lipase-mediated alcoholysis for in situ production of ester bioaromas in licuri oil for cosmetic applications.

Bioaromas can be produced by lipases either through their hydrolytic or (trans)esterifying activities. Therefore, this work reports the development of a lipase-catalyzed biotransformed licuri oil, forming volatile ethyl esters with odor notes resembling tropical fruits. Ethyl octanoate formation was promoted when 7.0 % (m/v) Lipozyme 435® was used to convert a grain alcohol:licuri oil mixture (51:49, v/v) at 58ºC and 70 rpm for 6 hours. The biotransformed oil has shown antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus hominis , S. epidermidis, and Corynebacterium xerosis , bacteria associated with bad skin odor. Finally, this biotransformed oil was used without further treatments (e.g., recovery or purification procedures) to prepare two cosmetic formulations (in a dosage of 1.5 %), aiming for both fragrant and deodorant activity. • Odor-active ethyl esters were formed in lipase-biotransformed licuri oil. • 8.22 g/L ethyl octanoate was formed with 7 % lipase, 51:49 alcohol:oil ratio at 58°C. • Antibacterial activity of biotransformed oil could prevent bad skin odor. • Cosmetic formulations were prepared with 1.5 % biotransformed licuri oil. • No purification procedures were needed to use a natural fragrant mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]