Executive summary of key findings

Optimized extraction processes (WP2): defined “optimal” operating parameters for extraction from leaves and pomace, obtaining 4 extracts (FO, FOM, S, SM) and demonstrating that:

FO (maltodextrine-free leaves) is the sample with the highest phenolic richness and antioxidant activity.

The addition of maltodextrins systematically reduces the “potency per gram” (dilution/microencapsulation effect), which is more marked in the leaves.

Antioxidant activity (WP2): With TPC, FRAP, DPPH, ABTS assays a clear general hierarchy is observed: FO > (FOM/S) > SM, with test-dependent differences.

Phytochemical profile (WP2): LC-MS/MS highlights profiles rich in secoiridoids and phenols (e.g. oleuropein/derivatives, oleoside, hydroxytyrosol, salidroside, verbascoside, flavonoids). The pomace maintains a significant share of recoverable bioactives (by-product valorization).

Enzymatic antidiabetic activity (WP2): No detectable inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase → action on glucose metabolism (if present) could involve other pathways.

Gastro-protected liposomes (WP3):

Liposomes ~74 nm (uncoated) → ~100–105 nm after coating with Eudragit® L100.

Positive (+7/+8 mV) to negative (~-17 mV) zeta potential after coating (confirmation of polymer adsorption).

In antioxidant assays, liposomes with extract show increased activity compared to the free extract (e.g. DPPH 93% vs 52%).

Cellular studies (WP3):

No cytotoxicity at the concentrations tested (leaves: 10–0.1 μg/mL; pomace: 100–1 μg/mL).

Leaves: ROS reduction in hyperglycemia; liposomes more effective up to lower doses; glucose uptake reduction; modulation of GLP-1 secretion (interpreted as homeostatic restoration).

Sansa: GLP-1 increase (more marked with liposomes) and intracellular Ca²⁺ increase consistent with GLP-1 secretion.

Enriched EVO oils (WP4): All enriched formulations improve oxidative stability; 1% is the best concentration; Mix leaves+pomace 1% performs best on oxidative markers and maintains a sensory “harmonic” profile.

OLEACTIVA supplements (WP5): developed 12 formulas, produced in pilot 4 references (capsules, tablets, stickpack, liquid). Good T0 data on oleuropein and microbiology; criticality highlighted: compressed disintegration test failed (0/6).

Waste valorization and LCA (WP7): use of exhausted matrices for breeding Hermetia illucens with promising preliminary results (highest performing sansa). LCA shows that enhancing pomace reduces the impacts attributed to oil; in particular Climate change: −83.30% in the energy allocation scenario (0.33511 → 0.05596 kg CO₂ eq).

Disclosure (WP8): Posters, oral presentations, scientific articles and final event (27/10/2025).

People involved