Evaluation of microbial dynamics during post-consumption food waste composting

Area of Science:

• Environmental Microbiology
• Waste Management
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Post-consumption food waste (PCFWs) composting presents challenges in microbial activity and decomposition rates.
• Enhancing microbial populations and enzymatic functions is crucial for efficient composting and stable end-product quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of bacterial consortium in boosting microbial populations and enzyme activities during PCFWs composting.
• To assess the impact of bacterial consortium on the rate of decomposition and stability of the final compost.

Main Methods:

• Three composting treatments were designed using PCFWs mixed with sawdust and zeolite.
• Treatments T-2 and T-3 were inoculated with distinct bacterial consortium, while T-1 served as the control.
• Microbial populations, hydrolytic enzyme activities, physico-chemical parameters, germination assays, and CO2-C evolution were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Total aerobic proteolytic, amylolytic, cellulolytic, oil-degrading, and total aerobic bacteria populations were significantly higher in T-2 and T-3 compared to T-1.
• Selected hydrolytic enzyme activities were also significantly elevated in T-2 and T-3, indicating enhanced decomposition.
• Significant correlations were observed between enzymatic activities, microbial populations, and physico-chemical parameters in T-2 and T-3.
• Germination assays and CO2-C evolution rates confirmed that T-2 and T-3 produced phytotoxic-free and highly stable compost by day 56.

Conclusions:

• Bacterial consortium effectively enhances microbial activity and enzymatic functions in PCFWs composting.
• The application of bacterial consortium leads to faster decomposition and produces stable, safe compost.
• This approach offers a viable strategy for sustainable management of food waste through composting.