The Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute (CSMCRI) has developed a process for synthesis of raspberry ketone. Raspberry ketone is a natural phenolic compound that is the primary aroma compound of red raspberries. Fruity berry-like odour; Raspberry ketones (RK) are found to be useful to burn subcutaneous fats, dietary supplements, promoting weight loss, in skin-lightening cosmetics anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative activities.
The present synthesis protocol reports aryl ketone using acetoacetic ester and substituted benzylic alcohols/halide using inexpensive indigenous commercially available solid acid catalyst provides convenient and efficient synthetic route of alkylation and decarboxylation
High conversion and excellent selectivity. Solvent free conditions are feasible
The market value for aryl ketones ranks second behind vanillin, with a total potential market value (US$3000/kg). However, raspberry ketone is mainly isolated from red raspberries fruits, and extractable concentration of RK is very low (1-4 mg/kg); Opportunity for “Make in India”.
For further details contact: Dr. V. P. Mohandas, Scientist & Head, SMC Discipline, CSMCRI, Bhavnagar. Ph: 0278–2567039
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