SCP and crude pectinase production by slurry-state fermentation of lemon pulps

Single cell protein (SCP) and crude pectinolytic enzymes production from citrus pulps is reported. SCP and enzymes were produced by slurry-state flask cultivation of Aspergillus niger and Trichoderma viride on pulps from lemon juice clarification. Production as well as crude pectinase activity was not affected by the high dry matter content of the pulps. Both the protein content in the residue and the enzyme activity in the supernatant were higher in T. viride than in A. niger culture. The crude pectinase of T. viride, whose specific activity was similar to that found for a commercial concentrated preparation, could be utilized in the same citrus processing factory as well as in other factories which use large amounts of pectinolytic crude preparations, for example to enhance depuration plant performance. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.