Bacterial cellulose biosynthesis in the presence of raw moist olive pomace: A green sustainable approach that enhances biopolymer production and properties

In this study, the biosynthesis of bacterial cellulose (BC) by Komagataeibacter intermedius strain isolated from Kombucha tea in the presence of raw moist olive pomace (MOP) (concentration up to 40 % in the fermentation media) was studied. The BC membranes were characterized by their antioxidant activity, structural characteristics, crystallinity, thermal stability, and mechanical behavior. Using raw MOP activated the inherent activity of the phenolic compounds, leading to cellular adaptation under unfavorable conditions and increased BC production for all tested MOP concentrations (p < 0.0001). This led to a 166.61 % increase for the 20 % MOP group compared to the control (HS medium). For this sample, enhanced antioxidant activity (∼40-fold higher than the control) was found, which might be associated with the molecular interactions established between hydroxyls of BC and phenolic compounds. Moreover, an increase of 603.03 % in strain capacity, and a 376.01 % improvement in stress at break compared to the control was observed. The study confirmed that BC can be synthesized using MOP in its natural state, supporting a sustainable circular economy while enhancing the biosynthesis of a value-added product. By reducing synthetic media and utilizing MOP, a greener bioprocess can be achieved, and BC's applicability can be expanded.