Optimized Application of Dextranase at Low Doses and Retention Times to Hydrolyze Dextran in Sugarcane Juices

Dextranase (endo 1 → 6-α-glucan hydrolase; EC 3.2.1.11) enzyme is applied in sugarcane factories to hydrolyze dextran (α-1 → 6-D-glucan) into smaller, more manageable molecules which can improve crystallization rates, reduce crystal elongation problems, and prevent dextran penalties in the raw sugar. The efficiency of the factory application of dextranase depends on the pH, Brix, temperature, retention time, agitation, type, activity and dose of the applied dextranase, and the enzyme/substrate ratio. Reported optimum conditions for the factory application of concentrated dextranase are: Brix