Orange peel, a byproduct of citrus processing, is rich in bioactive pigments such as carotenoids and flavonoids, which exhibit promising antibacterial and anticancer properties. This study investigates the extraction of pigments from mandarin orange peel using eco-friendly methods and evaluates their bioactivities. Pigments were extracted via ultrasound-assisted ethanol extraction, yielding a concentrate with high carotenoid content. Antibacterial assays demonstrated significant inhibition against Salmonella typhi, with zones of inhibition up to 18 mm at 100% extract concentration. Anticancer potential was assessed on HT-29 colon cancer cells, showing reduced cell viability (EC50: 0.55 mg/mL), induced apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase. These findings suggest orange peel pigments as natural agents for food preservation and cancer therapy, promoting sustainable utilization of agricultural waste.

Orange peel Pigment extraction Antibacterial activity Anticancer activity Salmonella typhi HT 29 cells