An acidic method of zein extraction from DDGS

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Biochemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) is an abundant byproduct of grain processing.
• Commercial zein extraction is costly and yields a product with specific limitations.
• There is a need for cost-effective and high-quality zein sources for industrial applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, cost-effective method for extracting zein from DDGS.
• To characterize the properties of zein obtained from DDGS.
• To explore potential industrial applications of the extracted zein.

Main Methods:

• A novel extraction method using acidic conditions and a reducing agent was employed.
• Optimization of pH, time, temperature, and reducing agent concentration was performed.
• Characterization of zein properties including intrinsic viscosity, phosphorus content, and yellowness was conducted.

Main Results:

• Zein with higher intrinsic viscosity and phosphorus content was successfully extracted from DDGS.
• The extracted zein exhibited lower yellowness compared to commercial zein.
• An efficient extraction process yielded approximately 10% aqueous ethanol soluble zein and 17% oil from DDGS.

Conclusions:

• A cost-effective and efficient method for zein extraction from DDGS was established.
• The obtained zein possesses favorable properties for industrial use.
• This research offers a sustainable and economical source of zein for applications in fibers, films, binders, and paints.