Comparative studies on the distribution of quinoidal chalcone pigments in the extracts from insect wastes and intact tissues of dyer's saffron florets

Abstract

Distribution of quinoidal chalcone pigments in aqueous extracts from insect wastes and intact tissues of dyer's saffron (C. tinctorius) florets was compared by applying HPLC techniques. The analytical data indicated that the polyoxychalcone constituents are not seriously changed even after exposed to the insect digestion. The findings endorse the possibility that the spoiled florets can be used safely as raw materials for preparation of red and/or yellowCarthamus dyes.