Valorization of Apple Pomace: Production of Phloretin Using a Bacterial Cellulose-Immobilized β-Glycosidase.

Summary

This study presents a sustainable, high-yield biocatalytic process that converts apple pomace phloridzin to phloretin using an extremophilic β-glycosidase immobilized on bacterial cellulose in a biphasic system. The approach demonstrates complete conversion under process conditions, enabling circular-economy valorization of agricultural waste into a high-value cosmetic active.

Key Findings

• Developed a biocatalytic process converting phloridzin (apple pomace) to phloretin using AHeGH1 β-glycosidase immobilized on bacterial cellulose.
• Implemented a two-liquid phase system (water/2,2,5,5-tetramethyloxolane) enabling complete conversion under the reported conditions.
• Demonstrated a sustainable valorization route from agro-waste to a high-value cosmetic ingredient.

Clinical Implications

While preclinical/industrial, more reliable access to phloretin may expand its dermatologic use (e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory actives) with better quality control and sustainability.

Limitations

• Industrial scale-up parameters and long-term catalyst stability were not detailed
• Downstream purification and cost analysis were not fully described

Future Directions

Scale-up studies, lifecycle assessment, cost modeling, and comparative efficacy/quality profiling of biocatalytically produced phloretin versus conventional sources.