Opuntia spp. are flowering plants belonging to the Cactaceae family. They grow naturally in tropical and semitropical regions [1], and their cultivation is well known, especially in Mexico, Argentina, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, the United States (Texas), Spain, Italy, Africa (Morocco, Tunisia, Eritrea, and Ethiopia), Israel, and South Africa [2]. Traditionally, the Opuntia have been used for both medicinal and edible purposes. Research has shown that extracts from their pads can reduce cholesterol levels [3] and exhibit hypoglycemic effects [4], antiulcer activity [5], neuroprotective effects [6], and anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties [5, 7]. Furthermore, these Cactaceae are characterized by their hydrocolloid properties, having a high capacity to retain water under adverse weather conditions due largely to one of their main functional components, mucilage.
O. cochenillifera mucilage is a functional plant-derived material that has potential applications in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. It is a rich source of carbohydrates, proteins, and minerals and can be considered nontoxic and safe for humans. Indeed, several cultures have traditionally used the cladodes of the Opuntia spp. as food. Its density, viscosity, pH, and conductivity characteristics recommend its use as an additive in the formulation of food and drugs. O. cochenillifera mucilage could be a good alternative emulsifier and stabilizing agent. Finally, the mucilage from O. cochenillif- era could be considered a natural technological alternative in many processes of decontamination for its ability to remove dye.