Continuous Isomerization of Glucose to Fructose on a Commercial Basis

Abstract

AbstractImmobilized glucose isomerase has been used to make more than 500,000 metric tons of high fructose corn syrups in the United States. These syrups have found wide application as high quality sweeteners to replace sucrose.A commercial process is described for the continuous enzymatic conversion of glucose to fructose. The use of immobilized glucose isomerase in a multiple bed reactor system is an economical method for making fructose. A comparison between immobilized glucose isomerase in a batch versus a continuous process shows the continuous process has the following advantages: Lower enzyme usage and cost for converting glucose to fructose. Lower capital equipment and labor costs. Better and easier process control. Lower refining costs and improved product quality. Both the continuous isomerization process and the immobilization technique described are developments of Clinton Corn Processing Company, a Division of Standard Brands, Inc.