Selection of specific bacterial cultures and optimization of process conditions for xylitol production using sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) bagasse hydrolysate as substrate

Date

6-2026

Adviser

Ronadane N. Liwanag

Principal

Buela, Mabel S.

Abstract

Rising cases of high sugar consumption–related illnesses have intensified the demand for natural sweeteners such as xylitol, a sugar alcohol with lower caloric content and proven benefits for oral and ear health. This study employs bagasse, an agricultural waste from sugarcane, as a substrate for xylitol production. Candida guilliermondii and Candida tropicalis serve as primary microorganisms in converting xylose into xylitol; however, their pathogenic nature raises safety concerns as they are known to cause vulvovaginal candidiasis—a fungal infection characterized by swelling, irritation, and discharge—which disproportionately affects women. A quantitative experimental design with a multi-stage screening process was adopted to select optimal bacterial strains for xylitol production from sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate (SCBH). SCBH was prepared via mild hydrolysis to generate a xylose-rich substrate. Candidate isolates were screened for high xylose consumption and growth rate. The top-performing strains (C154 2A, B-5, and PET 1-1.29) were selected for optimization. This final phase utilized a Response Surface Methodology to determine the optimal conditions (substrate concentration and agitation) for maximum xylitol yield, monitored by high-performance liquid chromatography. C154 2A proved optimal, yielding 0.6 g/L xylitol at 72 hours and a C/N ratio of 45 g/g. HPLC confirmed successful hydrolysate detoxification: low glucose and inhibitors with high xylose concentration. With these findings, the implications of this research hold strong potential for the transformation of agricultural waste into value-added products. Through using leftover sugarcane bagasse—a common byproduct—as a hydrolyzed fermentation medium for nonpathogenic xylitol-producing bacteria, the study advances research in industrial microbial biotechnology by reducing waste, lowering costs, and promoting a circular bioeconomy, all while producing a healthier sugar alternative.

Language

English

Location

UP Rural High School

Document Type

Capstone

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