Ensuring Safety in Innovation: CircularTrace Conducts Rigorous Toxicology Study on NADES-Based Cascara Extract

CircularTrace continues to strengthen its commitment to developing sustainable and high-quality circular economy products through a comprehensive toxicological assessment of Cascara extract produced using Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES). The research, titled "Acute and Subacute Toxicity Profiles of NADES Extract of Cascara in Rats," was conducted as an essential step toward establishing product safety standards prior to commercialization.

The study represents a major milestone in CircularTrace’s efforts to standardize functional ingredients derived from coffee processing by-products. Cascara, which is the dried skin of coffee cherries, is widely recognized for containing beneficial bioactive compounds and antioxidant properties. Through the application of green extraction technology using NADES solvents, CircularTrace aims to reduce environmental impacts associated with conventional chemical extraction methods while maintaining high extraction efficiency.

Despite the environmental advantages of NADES-based extraction, ensuring the safety of these innovative extracts for long-term human consumption remains a top priority. The toxicological study was therefore designed to determine the median lethal dose (LD50) and identify any potential signs of toxicity from repeated exposure.

The research included a detailed 28-day repeated dosing evaluation using animal models to establish a comprehensive safety profile. Several important parameters were systematically monitored throughout the study, including behavioral and physical observations such as behavioral changes, body weight development, and organ weight fluctuations.

In addition, hematological and biochemical analyses were performed to evaluate blood profiles and important serum markers associated with liver and kidney functions. The research team also conducted histopathological examinations involving microscopic analysis of liver and kidney tissues to identify possible cellular-level abnormalities or tissue damage.

The findings from this toxicological assessment are considered highly important for the future standardization and commercialization of NADES-based Cascara extracts. By establishing scientifically validated safety profiles, CircularTrace ensures that its circular economy products are not only environmentally sustainable but also meet strict health and safety standards required within the functional food and nutraceutical industries.

According to CircularTrace representatives, the research is a mandatory stage in the commercialization pathway of upcycled coffee-derived ingredients. The initiative demonstrates that agricultural waste valorization must be supported by scientific validation, product safety assurance, and responsible innovation to gain long-term consumer trust.

Through this research, CircularTrace reinforces its vision of transforming coffee industry by-products into standardized, scientifically backed, and sustainable functional ingredients capable of supporting both environmental sustainability and human health advancement.