Bioconversion of Grape Juice Production Residues into Protein- and Functional Ingredient-rich Biomass - Waste-free Technology Development Perspective

DOI: 10.22161/ijeab.104.30

Abstract:
A protein- and bioactive compound-rich biomass was obtained through the deep fermentation of grape juice production residues by Aspergillus terreus IK40. The digestibility and nutritional value of the product obtained through bioconversion was studied. The crude protein content in the biomass is 19.0%, which fully corresponds to the recommended level for pig feeding during the active growth phase. The crude fat content (7.6%) also satisfies pig feeding standards. The biomass is rich in easily metabolizable sugars (141 mg/g), which plays a significant role in energy balance formation and promotes microbial fermentation in the pig digestive tract. The digestibility level of the biomass is improved due to the reduction of hard-to-degrade biopolymer content. The product is rich in micro and macro elements, contains biologically active metabolites (ascorbic acid, tocopherol, carotenoids, and proline) and possesses high total antioxidant activity. Thus, the obtained biomass represents not only a nutrient-rich but also a functionally valuable product, which application in pig feed will contribute to improving growth parameters and strengthening the organism's natural immune barriers.

Keywords:
bioconversion, mycoprotein, digestibility of the biomass, antioxidant activity, functional food supplement

Article Info:
Received: 30 Jun 2025; Received in revised form: 31 Jul 2025; Accepted: 05 Aug 2025; Available online: 12 Aug 2025

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