The Need

Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) are a collection of prebiotic fibers made of a chain of galactose sugars of variable length. GOS has been shown to exert some of the most potent and beneficial effects among prebiotic fibers. When added to infant formula, it can change bowel flora to approximate the bowel flora composition of breast fed infants. It can also reduce markers of inflammation, mitigate adverse effects of antibiotics, and promote a healthy population of bifidobacteria in all ages.

Enzymes are often used in soluble form to create bioproducts, but that method has its disadvantages, including inability to control product formation or to operate continuously, and its inefficiency. Biocatalyst immobilization, though, is gaining increased attention for the synthesis of industrial bioproducts ranging from neutraceuticals to chemicals. A low-cost way to produce GOS is needed.

The Technology

Researchers at The Ohio State University led by Dr. Shang-Tian Yang have developed a process to produce galacto-oligosaccharides from lactose by enzyme immobilized on cotton cloth. Polyethlyeneimine is used to coat the cloth and support the enzymes. Lactose, which is otherwise not a marketable product, can be converted into GOS, which is highly desirable in the food industry for its health benefits.

Commercial Applications

• Food and Nutrition
• Additives
• Prebiotics

Benefits/Advantages

• Advantages over use of enzymes in soluble form:
  • Enzyme reusability
  • Continuous operation
  • Controlled product formation
  • Simplified and efficient processing
• Lactose from cheese whey is an abundant byproduct from the dairy industry
• No sophisticated expertise, prior activation of carriers, or use of a special apparatus is required.