Process Optimization for the Production of Philosamia ricini (Eri Silk) Pupae Hydrolysate

Abstract

The method for protein hydrolysate production from Eri silk pupae (Philosamia ricini), waste from silk reeling process, was investigated. The appropriate process started by blending fresh pupa into fine particles and water was added to adjust final protein concentration to 4.6%. The pH was adjusted to 7.5 to accommodate the enzyme activity. Commercial enzyme Alcalase was added to 0.5% and the process was carried out at 50°C for 120 min with stirring. The protein hydrolysate from silk pupa was freeze-dried, ground into fine powder and analysed for compositions. The maximum degree of hydrolysis (DH) resulted from this condition was 73.27% with nitrogen recovery 62.82%. The hydrolysate product was water soluble and was rich in essential amino acids.