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DEGUMZ 7110
Phosphorus and Gum Removal
Gepzymes DEGUMZ is a powerful enzyme solution designed for efficiently removing phosphorus and degumming edible oils like rice bran, soybean, and mustard. By using a green, enzyme-based approach, it enhances oil purity, boosts yield, and reduces chemical usage. Gepzymes DEGUMZ offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution for oil processors, improving both oil quality and operational efficiency. Ideal for industries seeking to optimize their oil refining process with eco-friendly and high-performance technology.
Enzymatic Degumming of Edible Oils Using PLA-2 (Phospholipase A2)
Degumming is the critical first step in refining edible oils, aimed at removing phospholipids (also known as gums) that interfere with downstream processing and stability. Traditional degumming processes rely on acid or water treatment to hydrate and remove gums. However, enzymatic degumming using Phospholipase A2 (PLA-2) has emerged as a high-efficiency, eco-friendly, and yield-enhancing alternative that enables better oil recovery, lower phosphorus content, and gentler processing conditions.
PLA-2 specifically cleaves phospholipids at the sn-2 position, converting non-hydratable phospholipids (NHP) into lysophospholipids and free fatty acids—thereby significantly reducing residual phosphorus and improving oil quality.
Mechanism of Action – PLA-2 Enzyme
Phospholipase A2 (PLA-2) acts on non-hydratable phospholipids, particularly phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), by hydrolyzing the ester bond at the sn-2 position of the glycerol backbone.
Enzymatic Reaction:
Phospholipid (PC or PE) + H2O —(PLA-2)—> Lysophospholipid + Free Fatty AcidCommon Gums in Edible Oils – Comparative Chart
| Type of Oil | Total Gums (%) | Hydratable Gums | Non-Hydratable Gums (NHP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soybean Oil | 2.0 – 3.5 | 60–70% | 30–40% |
| Sunflower Oil | 1.0 – 2.0 | 50–60% | 40–50% |
| Rapeseed/Canola Oil | 1.5 – 3.0 | 50–60% | 40–50% |
| Rice Bran Oil | 1.0 – 2.5 | 40–50% | 50–60% |
| Corn Oil | 2.5 – 3.5 | 70–80% | 20–30% |
| Mustard Oil | 1.5 – 2.5 | 50–60% | 40–50% |
Advantages of PLA-2 Enzymatic Degumming
- ✅ Higher Oil Yield – Converts gums into oil-phase soluble lysophospholipids and fatty acids
- ✅ Lower Phosphorus Levels – <10 ppm achievable, ready for physical refining
- ✅ Energy Saving – Works at lower temperature compared to acid degumming
- ✅ Eco-friendly – Reduces chemical usage and wastewater generation
- ✅ Improved Quality – Less emulsification, better downstream bleaching & deodorization
- ✅ Cost Efficiency – Better yield = higher revenue from same raw material
How PLA-2 Works – Step-by-Step
- • Preheat Oil to 50–60°C
- • Conditioning – Adjust pH buffering agent to 5.0–6.0 using citric or phosphoric acid
- • Add PLA-2 Enzyme (Typically 10–50 ppm depending on oil and gum content)
- • Reaction Time – Allow 30–90 mins for full conversion of NHP
- • Centrifugation – Separate lysogums and free fatty acids from oil phase
- • Polishing – Further polishing or neutralization as required
Enzyme vs. Acid Degumming – Comparative Chart
| Parameter | Acid Degumming | Enzymatic Degumming (PLA-2) |
|---|---|---|
| Phosphorus Removal | 80–90% | >95% |
| Oil Yield | Moderate (loss in soapstock) | High (converted into oil-phase FFA) |
| Emulsion Formation | High | Low |
| Chemical Use | High (acid, base) | Low (only enzyme + minor acid) |
| Environmental Impact | More effluent, high COD | Green process, biodegradable |
| CAPEX | Moderate | Requires enzyme dosing unit |
| Energy Consumption | High (90–95°C) | Low (50–60°C) |
How to Use PLA-2 in Degumming – Dosage and Procedure
| Oil Type | Enzyme Dosage (ppm) | Temp (°C) | Reaction Time (min) | Expected P (ppm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soybean Oil | 30–50 | 55–60 | 45–90 | <10 |
| Sunflower Oil | 25–40 | 55 | 45–60 | <10 |
| Rapeseed/Canola | 25–35 | 50–55 | 45–60 | <15 |
| Rice Bran Oil | 40–60 | 60 | 60–90 | <10 |
| Mustard Oil | 30–50 | 55 | 60 | <10 |
Specifications of PLA-2 Enzyme (Powder Form)
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Off-white to light beige powder |
| Enzyme Activity | ≥ 10,000 U/g (measured at pH 7.5, 37°C) |
| Moisture Content | ≤ 8% |
| pH Range (working) | 5.0 – 7.5 |
| Optimal Temperature | 50 – 60°C |
| Storage Conditions | Store in cool, dry place below 25°C |
| Shelf Life | 12 months in original packaging |
| Packaging | 25 kg HDPE drums or customized packaging on request |
| Solubility | Dispersible in water |
PLA-2 based enzymatic degumming is transforming the edible oil industry by offering cleaner, higher-yield, and sustainable degumming solutions. Its ability to break down non-hydratable phospholipids and significantly reduce phosphorus levels makes it a preferred method for physical refining and premium-quality oil production.