Opuntia ficus-indica seed oil: Biorefinery and bioeconomy aspects

In this study, we offer a perspective written from a biorefinery viewpoint aimed at expanding the cactus peer seed oil market and utilizations. Besides antioxidant and skin and hair hydrating action which make it suitable as a valued cosmetic ingredient, the oil contained in the seeds of Opuntia ficus-indica and Opuntia dillenii, rich in unsaturated fatty acids, also shows anti-inflammatory properties which offer significant potential as functional ingredient of nutraceutical and food supplement products. Practical applications: The outcomes of the study will be useful in progressing the expansion of the emerging bioeconomy, especially in Opuntia producing countries. The oil contained in the seeds of prickly pear cactus is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and shows significant anti-inflammatory properties which offer significant potential as functional ingredient of nutraceutical and food supplement products. We offer a perspective written from a biorefinery viewpoint aimed at expanding the utilization of this valued bio-derived oil.