Efficient Production of Bacterial Cellulose Using <i>Komagataeibacter sucrofermentans</i> on Sustainable Feedstocks

The production of bacterial cellulose (BC) has indeed garnered global attention due to its versatile properties and applications. Despite potential benefits, the challenges like low productivity, high fermentation costs, and expensive culture media hinder its industrialization. Utilizing low-cost substrates, especially waste streams, can help address the challenges. In this study, waste feedstocks such as restaurant leftovers, oranges, and grapefruit from canteens and supermarkets were valorized for BC production by Komagataeibacter sucrofermentans. Orange juice is a fascinating substrate with a highest concentration of 20.6 g/L and productivity of 2.05 g/L/d. Using HS medium with supplementary ions, organic acids, ethanol, and various carbon sources is a strategic approach for enhancing BC production. The study reveals that the addition of organic acids or ethanol moderately increased BC production, while ions inhibit BC synthesis, highlighting the complex interplay between various cultivation medium components. Additionally, fermentation with K. sucrofermentans using single and mixed carbon sources was conducted to elucidate the potential metabolic mechanism of BC production. Through alkaline treatment and drying in a 30 °C incubator, we produced the highest quality BC with 92.09 % crystallinity. Overall, the study enhances BC production knowledge and provides green and sustainable strategies for fermentative BC production.