Author
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Rosentrater, Kurt |
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Submitted to: Journal of Waste Management
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Publication Acceptance Date: 3/9/2005 Publication Date: 3/1/2006 Citation: Rosentrater, K.A. 2006. A review of corn masa processing residues: generation, properties, and potential utlization. Journal of Waste Management, Volume 26, Issue 3, 2006, Pages 284-292. Interpretive Summary: During the last few decades, the processing of corn into masa dough has been greatly increasing in the U.S. This is resulting in greater volumes of processing waste being produced. This waste stream is currently landfilled, but other value-added utilization avenues appear promising as disposal alternatives. Essential to pursuing these alternatives is fundamental physical and chemical properties of these waste streams. Unfortunately, little research has been pursued for masa waste. Thus the objective of this study was to review the literature regarding masa waste generation, properties of this waste stream, and discuss potential value-added utilization options. It was found that masa waste is typically high in fiber, calcium, and moisture. Because the fiber content is so substantial, pursuit of products such as ethanol or phytosterols, should be investigated. Before this waste can be effectively utilized, however, it must be dehydrated. Technical Abstract: The production of corn masa-based products in the U.S. has been increasing over the last several years, and as a result, so has the quantity of waste materials being generated from this industry. Although currently landfilled, these byproduct streams may have potential for value-added processing and utilization, which are options that simultaneously hold the promise of increased economic benefit for masa processors as well as decreased potential pollution for the environment. Fundamental to any byproduct development effort is knowledge of the characteristics of the residue stream, because physical and chemical properties are vital for the proper design of subsequent processing operations and applications. Data for masa byproduct materials is currently not readily available, however. Thus, the objective of this study was to fully investigate, review, and summarize existing literature in order to develop a comprehensive knowledge base for these residue streams. The most substantial findings from this study were that masa residues currently are not being utilized as coproducts, but instead are being landfilled; they have high fiber contents, and thus much untapped potential exists for its extraction and value-added utilization vis-à-vis human and industrial applications, including phytosterol and ethanol production. It was also determined that masa byproducts, due to the high fiber content, may also be suitable for use as livestock feed additives, especially for ruminant animals, which can digest these materials. Furthermore, due to substantial calcium content, masa byproducts could also potentially be used as a calcium resource. Under current processing practices, though, these residues have very high moisture contents. Before they can be effectively and economically utilized, they must be dehydrated in order to reduce transportation costs, decrease microbial activity, and increase shelf life. |
