PRODUCTION OF CITRIC ACID FROM PINEAPPLE PEEL USING FUNGI ISOLATED FROM SOIL
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study investigated the production of citric acid using pineapple peel as a low-cost substrate and fungi isolated from soil. Soil samples from Gwallameji, Bauchi State, Nigeria, were used to isolate six fungal strains: Aspergillus sp., Penicillium sp., Fusarium sp., Candida sp., Aspergillus niger, and Rhizopus sp. These isolates were screened for citric acid production under submerged fermentation. Aspergillus niger showed the highest yield (9.5 g/L) at pH 2.6, confirming its potential as an industrial producer. Optimization of fermentation conditions improved acid output, demonstrating the feasibility of converting agro-waste into valuable products. The findings support sustainable waste management and local bioproduction initiatives in Nigeria.
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