Soy Molasses: A Sustainable Resource for Industrial Biotechnology

Bruno C. Gambarato (), Ana Karine F. Carvalho, Fernanda De Oliveira, Silvio S. da Silva, Milena Lorenzi da Silva and Heitor B. S. Bento ()
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Bruno C. Gambarato: Department of Material Science and Technology, University Center of Volta Redonda (UniFOA), Volta Redonda, Rio de Janeiro 27240-560, Brazil
Ana Karine F. Carvalho: Department of Basic and Environmental Sciences, Engineering School of Lorena, University of Sao Paulo, Lorena, São Paulo 12602-810, Brazil
Fernanda De Oliveira: Bioprocesses and Sustainable Products Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Engineering School of Lorena, University of São Paulo (EEL-USP), Lorena, São Paulo 12602-810, Brazil
Silvio S. da Silva: Bioprocesses and Sustainable Products Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Engineering School of Lorena, University of São Paulo (EEL-USP), Lorena, São Paulo 12602-810, Brazil
Milena Lorenzi da Silva: Department of Engineering of Bioprocesses and Biotechnology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University—UNESP, Araraquara, São Paulo 14800-903, Brazil
Heitor B. S. Bento: Department of Engineering of Bioprocesses and Biotechnology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University—UNESP, Araraquara, São Paulo 14800-903, Brazil

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 12, 1-17

Abstract: Soy molasses, a byproduct of soy protein concentrate production, offers potential as a substrate for biotechnological applications due to its rich composition of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and bioactive compounds. Despite this, it remains underutilized, often relegated to low-value applications such as animal feed or waste, largely due to variability in its composition, the presence of microbial inhibitors, and limited industrial awareness of its potential. This review explores the biotechnological strategies for valorizing soy molasses, focusing on its chemical and physical properties, potential applications, and the challenges associated with its use. Its high carbohydrate content supports its utilization in producing biofuels, organic acids, and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), addressing the global demand for sustainable energy and materials while costing approximately 20% of the value of conventional carbohydrate sources. Additionally, bioactive compounds have extended applications to nutraceuticals and cosmetics, while proteins and lipids enable enzyme and biosurfactant production. However, challenges such as variability in composition, the presence of inhibitory compounds, and scalability issues require innovative approaches, including pre-treatment methods and strain engineering. By integrating soy molasses into a circular bioeconomy framework, industries can reduce waste, lower their carbon footprint, valorize agro-industrial residues, and generate economic value. This review underscores the untapped potential of soy molasses as a versatile, sustainable resource, while highlighting the need for continued advancements to transform it into a key player in industrial biotechnology.

Keywords: waste valorization; agro-industry byproduct; biorefinery; microbial fermentation; sustainable feedstock (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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