Isolation and Detailed Characterization of Protease-Producing Bacteria Derived from Dairy Waste

Abstract

Protease enzymes are integral to numerous industrial applications due to their ability to hydrolyze peptide bonds in proteins. In the realm of dairy waste management, protease-producing bacteria present a sustainable method for transforming waste into valuable products. This study focuses on the isolation and detailed characterization of protease-producing bacteria derived from dairy waste, with the aim of identifying strains with high enzymatic activity and potential industrial applicability. Dairy waste samples were collected from various sources, including milk processing plants, dairy farms, and cheese production facilities. These samples underwent bacterial isolation through serial dilution and selective culture media to enrich protease-producing strains. The isolated bacteria were subjected to biochemical assays, including catalase, oxidase, and indole tests, as well as carbohydrate fermentation assays, to evaluate their enzymatic capabilities and substrate preferences. The study identified diverse protease-producing bacterial isolates, exhibiting significant variation in enzymatic profiles. Some isolates demonstrated robust protease activity over a wide range of pH and temperature conditions, indicating their potential for industrial applications that require stable enzymatic performance under varying environmental conditions. The substrate specificity assays revealed the ability of these isolates to hydrolyze various protein substrates, including casein, gelatin, and albumin, highlighting their versatility. Challenges in the research included ensuring the purity of bacterial isolates and standardizing assay protocols for accurate results. However, the findings offer substantial implications for environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Environmentally, the use of protease-producing bacteria can significantly reduce the biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) of dairy waste, mitigating its environmental impact. Economically, these bacteria can convert waste into value-added products such as animal feed, bioplastics, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, promoting resource efficiency and creating new revenue streams. Socially, the research fosters innovation and knowledge dissemination; encouraging collaborative efforts for integrated waste management strategies. The isolation and characterization of protease-producing bacteria from dairy waste provide a promising approach to sustainable waste management. This research not only addresses environmental pollution but also supports the development of a circular bio economy, turning waste into resources and contributing to broader sustainability goals.