The increasing demand for environmentally sustainable and efficient laundry detergents has prompted the exploration of innovative biotechnological solutions. This study aims to integrate solid fermentation and by-product valorization for high-quality proteases suitable for laundry detergents. Of 486 strains isolated from fruit by-products, 9 were selected for their proteolytic activity, but only 3 showed proteolytic activity in the presence of detergent components. Strain M17, identified as Yarrowia lipolytica (Yl), proved to be the most effective in producing proteolytic extracts with activity similar to that found in commercial detergents. The produced proteases were incorporated into laundry detergent formulations, and their enzyme activity was compared with that of commercial laundry detergents. The results showed that the proteolytic extracts have enzyme activity similar to that of commercial laundry detergents. Culture media were developed to enhance protease production using fruit by-products. The highest activity (43.71 U (g dm)−1) was achieved at C/N = 20.04, while the best productivity (1.37 U (g dm·h)−1) at pH 7.0 and 30 °C was observed. The results demonstrate that culture media based on fruits and vegetable by-products enhance protease yield and activity. This approach not only reduces waste but also adds value to natural resources through an environmentally friendly process. This study underscores the potential of combining solid-state fermentation with by-products. Using Yl in combination with fruit and vegetable by-products is a practical, eco-friendly method for producing high-quality proteases for laundry detergents. This green enzyme innovation offers significant promise for advancing the detergent proteolytic enzymes and promoting sustainable practices in by-product management.
Buenrostro-Figueroa et al. (Fri,) studied this question.