In silico optimization of anthocyanin extraction from gladious flower extracts and evaluation of its antioxidant potential

Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflora Hort.) is one of the important horticultural crops belonging to Iridaceae family. It grows in flowerbeds, borders, and containers and has immense potential as cut flowers. In this study, we have optimized the anthocyanin extraction from gladiolus Pusa Suahagin (PS) flower using one-variable-at-a-time (OVAT) and response surface methodology (RSM) methods. The optimum conditions for maximum anthocyanin content of 40.45 g⁻¹ DW was obtained considering the water:hydrochloride (1.8:0.6) ratio, temperature: 52.72 °C, time: 2 h and solid loading: 7% (w/v). MS studies confirmed the presence of pelargonidin, cyanidin, delphinidin, peonidin, petunidin, and malvidin compounds in PS flower extract. Free radical scavenging capability determined by DPPH assay of PS flower extract showed 84.63%, which implies that the PS flower extract can be used as colorant or nutraceutical in food industry and potential agent for enhancement of vase life pertinent to cut flowers in flower industry. Graphical abstract: (Figure presented.)