Optimization and evaluation of microwave vacuum and co-fermentation on aquatic plant-based protein (wolffia globosa) power | |
| Author | Praphrut Boonmanee |
| Call Number | AIT Thesis no.FIBNH-26-05 |
| Subject(s) | Vacuum microelectronics Plant proteins Food--Biotechnology |
| Note | A Thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Food Engineering and Bioprocess Technology |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Abstract | This study investigated the optimization of microwave vacuum alkaline-assisted extraction (MVAAE) and the impact of co-fermentation on the nutritional and functional properties of Wolffia globosa, a nutrient-rich aquatic plant-based protein. Using a Box-Behnken Design (BBD), the extraction of total phenolic content (TPC) was optimized, identifying the ideal condition as 1:40 (w/v) solid-liquid ratio (0.1% NaOH), 300 watts of microwave power, and a 60-second processing time, yielding a TPC of 8.30 mg GAE/g DW. Subsequent co-fermentation using Lactobacillus plantarum TISTR 2075 and Saccharomyces cerevisiae US-05 significantly enhanced the biochemical profile, increasing soluble protein, total amino acids, and antioxidant capacity while reducing undesirable volatile compounds. Functional analysis revealed that fermented samples (DPL) exhibited superior water and oil holding capacities (6.85 g/g and 4.19 g/g, respectively). Structural characterization via ESEM and protein analysis confirmed that the combination of MVAAE and enzymatic microbial action effectively disrupted Wolffia cell walls, creating a spongier, more porous morphology and hydrolyzing larger proteins into smaller peptides. These results suggest that optimized co-fermentation is a promising strategy for developing high-value food supplements from Wolffia globosa. |
| Year | 2026 |
| Type | Thesis |
| School | Faculty of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources (2026) |
| Department | Other Field of Studies (No Department) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Food Engineering and Bioprocess Technology (FEBT)/Former code name = FB |
| Chairperson(s) | Anal, Anil Kumar; |
| Examination Committee(s) | Darniadi, Sandi;Ha, Thanh Dong; |
| Scholarship Donor(s) | Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives (MOAC), Thailand;AIT Scholarship; |
| Degree | Thesis (M. Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2026 |
 | |