A Review on Nature Treasured Biochrome: Anthocyanins, with Five Major Maharashtrian Sources

Background: Anthocyanins are natural hydrophilic pigments appreciated for their bright red, purple, and blue hues and belong to the group of phenolic compounds. Anthocyanins are found in all plant parts. Tropical fruits and vegetables like grapes, pomegranates, eggplants, red cabbages, etc. are sources containing high levels of anthocyanins, which can be easily extracted using various methods. The market size of anthocyanins is growing rapidly due to increasing applications of anthocyanins as natural dyes in the textile and cosmetic industry, food additives in the food and beverage industry, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries and is expected to reach a value of nearly 27.8 million USD by 2032. Aim: The review focuses on five major Maharashtrian sources of anthocyanins, namely; Eggplant (Solanum melongena), Grapes (Vitis vinifera), Jamun (Syzygium cumini), Kokum (Garcinia indica), and Pomegranate (Punica granatum) with significant emphasis on their phytochemical aspects and anthocyanin content. Methods: The various extraction methods like Solid Liquid Extraction (SLE), High Hydrostatic Pressure (HHP) Extraction, Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE), Pulse Electric Field Extraction (PEFE), Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE) and Agitated Bed Extraction (ABE) and techniques for purification and identification of anthocyanins are highlighted here. Also, the review delves into an extensive range of anthocyanin applications in various industries providing a promising way to develop novel, safer and healthier products with enhanced stability and quality. Conclusion: The review concludes that anthocyanins have a very significant role in the physiology of these five major Maharashtrian sources and the Eggplant has high anthocyanin content. Amongst all extraction methods, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was found to be a highly flexible, affordable, simple and rapid method giving maximum anthocyanin yield. Therefore, anthocyanins are a treasured natural pigment having versatile applications in various industries. Major Findings: A comparison of five major Maharashtrian sources revealed that Eggplant (Solanum melongena) possesses high anthocyanin content. Amongst all extraction methods, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was found to be a highly flexible, affordable, simple and rapid method giving maximum anthocyanin yield. Application of anthocyanins in various industries will provide a promising way to develop the novel, safer and healthier products with enhanced stability and quality to benefit humans.