Chemical and biotechnological characterization of supercritical CO2 extracts and residual Humulus lupulus biomass from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest

Abstract

Hops (Humulus lupulus) are essential in beer production, as their presence in both unfertilized (seedless) and fertilized (seeded) inflorescences produces lupulin, a powder rich in α-acids and essential oils that enhance bitterness and aroma. Hop cultivation in Brazil has gained prominence with the establishment of certified seedling nurseries, reaching prices of up to $60 per kg in 2025. Global demand for hops is rising, driven by the craft beer industry and major producers like the U.S., Germany, and Australia. However, logistical challenges still hinder its economic viability in Brazil. In this work, commercial pellet hops produced and supplied by Atlântica Hops (Juquiá – SP) were used for supercritical fluid extraction with CO2 (SFE-CO2). The aim was to obtain different extracts, including the spent hop, and compare them to determine the content of α-acids, essential oils, and sensory profiles. Including the biorefinery concept, the antifungal and antioxidant potential and the chemical composition were evaluated to explore their use as raw material for other value-added bioproducts. Conventional hop extraction yielded 15%, with 9% α-acid content, while SFE-CO2 extraction reached 72% α-acids. The SFE-CO2 extract proved to be more commercially viable due to its smaller volume, easier storage, and 20% higher yield in beer production. The extraction of spent hop showed higher antioxidant activity and was rich in carotenoids, flavonoids, and phenolics. SFE-CO2 technology presents a promising opportunity for the hop production chain in Brazil, optimizing economic viability and generating additional revenue through by-products.Graphical Abstract