Zefang Jiang, J. Chen, Xin Guo, Fusheng Chen, Xingfeng Guo, Qiang Wang, Bo Jiao
Conventional oil extraction methods face challenges such as nutrient loss, solvent residues, and protein denaturation. Aqueous enzymatic extraction (AEE), as a green alternative, offers mild processing and environmental benefits. However, its application is hindered by inefficient release of intracellular components due to rigid cell walls, difficulties in demulsifying stable oil-water interfaces, and insufficient valorization of by-products. Moreover, proteins are heterogeneously distributed among aqueous, emulsion, and solid phases with distinct functionalities, yet research remains disproportionately focused on aqueous-phase proteins, leading to suboptimal resource utilization. This study aims to elucidate targeted cell wall disruption mechanisms and the dynamic interplay between oil release and emulsion formation during enzymatic hydrolysis. By integrating physical-assisted technologies, we establish an oil-protein production system that overcomes efficient oil liberation and demulsification barriers. A multi-component functional evaluation framework is developed to systematically analysis oil nutritional properties and multi-phase protein functionalities. The proposed strategy of precision cellular deconstruction, technology integration, and component valorization provides a theoretical and technical foundation for enhancing AEE efficiency, producing high-quality oils, and advancing multi-phase protein functionalization.