395: Optimization and Production of Mycoprotein From Neurospora Crassa Using Agricultural Byproduct Immature Rice Kernels

Introduction

Food sustainability and waste management have continued to be a critical global concern. Agricultural by-products account for a sizable portion of this waste, highlighting the need to develop innovative methods to utilize these materials. Mycoprotein, a fungal biomass rich in protein and fiber is fit for human and animal consumption and its production offers a sustainable solution by converting agricultural waste into valuable food ingredients.

Methods

In this study, the primary objective is to investigate the potential of bioprocessing mycoproteins from the fungus Neurospora crassa, using immature long-grain rice kernels as a carbon source. The pretreatment conditions during the liquefaction step of immature rice kernels will be optimized, including agitation ranging from 0 to 140 rpm, substrate concentration from 5% to 45% (dry solids), time varying between 1 and 120 minutes, and temperature ranging from 60 to 90°C. The hydrolysis will be conducted using thermostable alpha-amylase from Bacillus licheniformis at a pH of 5.5. Fermentable sugar, dextrose equivalence, and total sugars will be measured using methods outlined by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists International (AOAC). Data analysis and experimental design, employing a central composite design, will be conducted using JMP analytical software. Aerobic fermentation will occur in a shake flask under controlled conditions, including a temperature of 30°C, a stirring rate of 120 rpm, a pH of 6, and a nitrogen source concentration of 1% (w/v), with optimized liquefied by-product serving as the carbon source in Vogel's medium. Biomass yield will be monitored through gravimetric analysis to determine kinetics growth and the mycoprotein structural profile will be assessed using electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) analysis.

Results

The preliminary results indicate that 5% (w/v) initial rice concentration achieved sugar conversion rates of 76%, 73%, and 12% at liquefaction temperatures of 90°C, 76°C, and 60°C, respectively, after 120 minutes. These findings suggest that immature rice has potential as a carbon source in mycoprotein bioprocessing.

Significance

This research evaluates the potential of immature rice kernels, an agricultural by-product, as a carbon source to produce mycoprotein, thereby reducing global waste production and simultaneously increasing food sustainability.

Authors: Olumide Olubiyo, Sungil Ferreira