Optimizing cassava starch extraction from dry cassava root chips as a sustainable alternative to maize starch in oral tablets production

This study aims to develop an optimized process for extracting cassava starch from dry root chips as well as evaluate the physicochemical and functional properties of the starch as a binder and disintegrant in paracetamol tablets and comparing it with starch from the fresh cassava roots and maize starch as well as a sample of commercially available paracetamol tablets. The extraction process involved steeping of the dry chips in water, grating, milling, and sieving. A starch yield of 48% of the dry cassava root chips was obtained. Physicochemical analysis revealed similarities between the three starch samples, except for lower whiteness intensity and higher paste viscosity shown by the starch from the dry cassava chips. In granules formulation, the dry cassava chips starch performed comparably to maize starch BP and starch from fresh cassava roots, forming coherent granules with paracetamol powder and displaying good flow properties. Notably, tablets made with starch from dry cassava root chip exhibited higher mechanical strength and satisfactory disintegration time that are within compendia limits. The study shows that starch from dry cassava chips can serve as a suitable binder and disintegrant, offering a sustainable alternative to maize starch. With this satisfactory performance, potential for local sourcing and sustainable supply dry cassava chip can support the manufacture of pharmaceutical grade cassava starch in Nigeria, providing a viable and sustainable option for the industry by removing the emergency and pressure experienced during starch extraction from fresh cassava root. This study again highlights the potential of cassava starch as a valuable resourcer in pharmaceutical applications for the manufacture of oral tablets.