Agrowaste-based nanofibers as a probiotic encapsulant: fabrication and characterization

J Agric Food Chem. 2011 Aug 10;59(15):8140-7. doi: 10.1021/jf2009342. Epub 2011 Jul 11.

Abstract

This study explored the potential of soluble dietary fiber (SDF) from agrowastes, okara (soybean solid waste), oil palm trunk (OPT), and oil palm frond (OPF) obtained via alkali treatment, in the nanoencapsulation of Lactobacillus acidophilus . SDF solutions were amended with 8% poly(vinyl alcohol) to produce nanofibers using electrospinning technology. The spinning solution made from okara had a higher pH value at 5.39 ± 0.01 and a higher viscosity at 578.00 ± 11.02 mPa·s (P < 0.05), which resulted in finer fibers. FTIR spectra of nanofibers showed the presence of hemicellulose material in the SDF. Thermal behavior of nanofibers suggested possible thermal protection of probiotics in heat-processed foods. L. acidophilus was incorporated into the spinning solution to produce nanofiber-encapsulated probiotic, measuring 229-703 nm, visible under fluorescence microscopy. Viability studies showed good bacterial survivability of 78.6-90% under electrospinning conditions and retained viability at refrigeration temperature during the 21 day storage study.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Chemistry, Pharmaceutical
  • Dietary Fiber / analysis*
  • Drug Delivery Systems / instrumentation*
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods
  • Glycine max / chemistry
  • Lactobacillus acidophilus / chemistry*
  • Lactobacillus acidophilus / physiology
  • Microbial Viability
  • Nanofibers / chemistry*
  • Plant Proteins / chemistry*
  • Polysaccharides / chemistry*
  • Probiotics / chemistry*
  • Soy Foods
  • Waste Products / analysis*

Substances

  • Dietary Fiber
  • Plant Proteins
  • Polysaccharides
  • Waste Products
  • okara, Glycine max