Enzyme-assisted extraction for mycotoxin reduction in corn co-products
A novel enzyme-assisted extraction method to reduce mycotoxins in corn wet-milling co-products, utilizing low-cost enzymes and optimized aqueous and ethanol-water conditions. This approach enhances safety while preserving nutritional value, targeting multiple mycotoxins.
Overview
This innovative solution leverages enzyme-assisted extraction to effectively reduce the presence of mycotoxins in corn wet-milling co-products, such as corn protein meal and corn gluten meal. By utilizing low-cost proteases and carbohydrases, this method partially opens the protein and fiber matrices that trap mycotoxins, allowing them to be extracted efficiently. The process ensures the removal of toxins while maintaining the nutritional integrity of the co-products, thus preserving their feed value.
Technical specifications
The technology employs a combination of proteases and carbohydrases to condition the protein/fiber matrix in corn co-products. The extraction is performed under optimized aqueous and ethanol-water conditions to cater to various mycotoxins with different polarity profiles. Mycotoxins are released into the liquid phase, followed by the recovery of protein-rich solids through centrifugation or filtration. This approach is validated using ELISA and targeted LC-MS for mycotoxin measurement and evaluates nutrient retention through protein, nitrogen, and dry matter recovery.
Technology readiness level
Currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, the enzyme-assisted extraction method has been validated in laboratory settings. The next steps involve scaling up to industry-relevant conditions with partner collaboration, utilizing representative co-product streams and aligning with industrial processing constraints.
About Utah State University
Utah State University is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university (Carnegie R1) serving Utah through a flagship Logan campus and a statewide network. Industry connects through the Innovation Campus research park, where companies co‑locate with faculty and access shared facilities. USU’s Space Dynamics Laboratory, a US Space Force–sponsored University Affiliated Research Center, offers mission‑driven pathways for space and defense collaboration. Statewide Extension offices and field sites enable pilot deployments and real‑world validation across Utah’s diverse settings. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, USDA, NASA, and DoD, with Technology Transfer Services managing IP, licensing, and SBIR/STTR support.
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