A Breakthrough Skincare from Young Durian Fruit by CU Innovation Hub that Redefines Beauty and Food industries with Plant-Based Science

BANGKOK, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Chulalongkorn University researchers, led by Professor Dr. Supaart Sirikantaramas, discovered an innovative use for durian, a fruit known for its pungent aroma and unique flavor. By utilizing "baby durians," which are typically discarded as agricultural waste, the team has successfully created a groundbreaking ingredient for premium skincare products. This initiative not only solves the food waste problem but also paves the way for sustainable and eco-friendly practices in the cosmetics industry.

The project, spearheaded by InnophytoTech (IPT), a spin-off company fostered by Chulalongkorn University's Innovation Hub, focuses on utilizing bioactive compounds and phytochemicals to create innovative extracts for various applications. Baby durians, rich in pectin and procyanidins, offer moisturizing and antioxidant properties that are beneficial for skin health and combat skin aging.

IPT's commitment to sustainability is evident in its adoption of green extraction methods while minimizing waste, and aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The team's efforts have resulted in a high-quality durian extract that is free from harmful solvents and chemicals, ensuring a pure and potent product. This extract, approved by the FDA, can be incorporated into various cosmetic products, providing benefits like hydration, anti-aging, and protection against antioxidants.

Beyond cosmetic applications, the team at IPT is exploring further uses for durian in food products like ice cream, juice, and dietary supplements. This aligns with the zero-waste concept, utilizing every part of the fruit to create innovative and sustainable solutions.

Moreover, the company applies plant-based science to address challenges in food products, such as reducing sugar content in fruits like mangoes, bananas, and pomelos. By converting sucrose into fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS), a prebiotic that promotes gut health, IPT is transforming traditionally sweet treats into healthier options.

Professor Dr. Supaart Sirikantaramas believes that this innovation from baby durian and other initiatives will inspire further research into utilizing agricultural byproducts, leading to a more sustainable future. IPT is actively seeking collaborations with brands and manufacturers interested in incorporating sustainable and high-quality plant extracts into their product lines.

Read the full article at https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/212835/.  

About Chulalongkorn University

Chulalongkorn University has made the world's top 50 university list for employment outcomes, which reflects both the high employment rate and workability of Chula graduates. The university is also listed as the best in Thailand for the 15th Consecutive Year (since 2009), according to the newly released QS World University Rankings 2024, putting Chula at 211th in the world, up from 244th last year.

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SOURCE Chulalongkorn University