Production of phytase during solid state fermentation using Aspergillus ficuum NRRL 3135 in canola meal

Abstract

Effects of moisture content of media, inoculum age and homogenization on production of phytase and reduction of phytic acid content in canola meal by Aspergillus ficuum NRRL 3135 during static solid-state fermentation (SSF) have been considered. Optimum mostirue content of media for these processes was 64%. Rate of phytase production increased with an increase in inoculum age between 2 and 5 days. Both the level and the rate of phytase production were lower in initial stages of SSF when inoculum was homogenized for longer periods of time, while after 36 h of the process an increase in phytase production was noticed with an increase in homogenization time. Mathematical correlations of phytase activity and phytic acid content reduction with moisture content and with time of homogenization of inoculum are proposed in this work.