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Biopolymers from Sugar Beet Molasses: Isolation, Characterization, and Bioactive Properties
Jenna Crouse1, Shad Sellers1, Karen Wawrousek1
1Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Wyoming, Laramie 82071-0333, United States.
ACS Omega
|April 7, 2025
Summary
Sugar beet molasses polymer (SBMP) shows promise for sustainable applications. This natural polymer exhibits significant antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, with no observed toxicity to human stem cells.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Sustainable Chemistry
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Plant byproducts offer sustainable sources for novel materials.
- Sugar beet molasses is an abundant industrial byproduct.
- Developing value-added products from agro-industrial waste is crucial for circular economy models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize sugar beet molasses polymer (SBMP).
- To evaluate the potential of SBMP in biomedical, cosmetic, and antimicrobial coating applications.
- To assess the biological properties and safety of SBMP.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of SBMP from sugar beet processing byproduct.
- Polymer characterization using MALDI-TOF MS, XPS, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and FTIR.
- Antioxidant activity assessed via RSA assay.
- Antimicrobial activity evaluated against R. erythropolis, E. coli, and S. cerevisiae.
- Cytotoxicity testing on human adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC).
Main Results:
- SBMP confirmed as a polymer containing phenolic and hydroxide groups.
- High antioxidant activity (approx. 80% RSA) observed.
- Significant antimicrobial activity against E. coli and R. erythropolis (approx. 80% GI), and moderate activity against S. cerevisiae (approx. 38% GI).
- No toxicity to ADSC observed at concentrations up to 0.5 mg/mL, with support for cellular growth.
Conclusions:
- SBMP possesses valuable biological properties, including antioxidant and antimicrobial effects.
- The non-toxic nature of SBMP makes it a safe candidate for various applications.
- SBMP is a promising sustainable biomaterial for biomedical, cosmetic, and antimicrobial coating applications.
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