COMPOSITION OF AGRICULTURAL WASTE-DERIVED BACTERIAL EXOPOLYSACCHARIDES AS EMULSIFYING AGENT IN COSMETIC CREAMS

Abstract

This invention provides a method for producing bacterial exopolysaccharides (EPS) from paddy straw for use as a natural emulsifying agent in cosmetics. By converting agricultural waste into a high-value cosmetic ingredient, the invention addresses waste management while enhancing product sustainability. EPS acts as a natural emulsifier, improving texture, hydration, and longevity in cosmetic formulations.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to the cosmetic and biotechnological fields, focusing on the utilization of exopolysaccharides (EPS) derived from agricultural waste as natural emulsifying agents in cosmetic formulations. The invention promotes sustainable cosmetic production by replacing synthetic emulsifiers with eco-friendly, bio-based alternatives, enhancing both product sustainability and performance.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In regions like Punjab, India, agricultural residues, particularly paddy straw, are frequently burned to clear land for subsequent planting. This practice has severe environmental consequences, contributing to air pollution and the loss of a valuable biomass resource. Paddy straw, which contains cellulose, hemicellulose, and other beneficial components, holds potential for various applications such as composting, bioenergy production, and animal feed. Yet, it remains underutilized, with significant economic and environmental loss. Recently, the cosmetics industry has observed an increased demand for eco-friendly and natural products. This shift has driven a surge in research and development of bio-based materials, including microbial exopolysaccharides (EPS), which serve as natural thickening and stabilizing agents. Certain bacterial strains can produce EPS, which offer numerous benefits for cosmetic applications, enhancing texture, longevity, and moisture retention in formulations. However, traditional EPS production relies on complex media and extraction methods, limiting its commercial feasibility. By using agricultural residues such as paddy straw as a growth medium for bacteria that produce EPS, this invention addresses two significant issues: waste management and sustainable cosmetic formulation. EPS derived from paddy straw presents an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic emulsifying agents, contributing to a circular economy model by transforming agricultural waste into valuable, sustainable cosmetic ingredients.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the invention.
This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.
To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.
The invention provides a method for producing bacterial exopolysaccharides (EPS) from agricultural waste, specifically paddy straw, for use as emulsifying agents in cosmetic creams. This approach leverages paddy straw as a substrate to cultivate bacteria that secrete EPS, bypassing the need for synthetic media. The produced EPS acts as a natural emulsifier in cosmetic formulations, contributing to product stability, improved texture, and enhanced moisturizing properties. This invention not only supports waste reduction and sustainability but also offers an alternative to chemical emulsifiers, aligning with consumer demand for eco-friendly cosmetic products.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The detailed description of various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments are described herein in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of details provided herein is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
It is also to be understood that various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as specific examples, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a"," "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes" and/or "including," when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.
It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions/acts noted may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two figures shown in succession may, in fact, be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.
In addition, the descriptions of "first", "second", "third", and the like in the present invention are used for the purpose of description only, and are not to be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, features defining "first" and "second" may include at least one of the features, either explicitly or implicitly.
Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, e.g., those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
Agent in Cosmetic Creams is based on the innovative use of paddy straw as a substrate for cultivating EPS-producing bacteria. This method not only reduces the reliance on synthetic media but also offers an effective strategy for agricultural waste management. Paddy straw, a readily available agricultural residue, is processed to create a suitable growth medium for EPS-secreting bacteria. The method begins by drying and grinding the paddy straw to increase surface area, which enhances microbial access to nutrients within the substrate. The prepared straw is then subjected to a pre-treatment process, typically involving mild acids or steam, to break down lignocellulosic bonds, making the cellulose and hemicellulose more accessible to bacterial digestion.
Bacterial strains known for EPS production, such as certain species of Xanthomonas or Lactobacillus, are introduced into the substrate under controlled conditions. The bacteria metabolize the paddy straw, secreting EPS as an extracellular byproduct. This EPS is subsequently extracted from the bacterial culture through centrifugation and precipitation methods, yielding a high-purity exopolysaccharide that is ready for incorporation into cosmetic formulations.
In cosmetic applications, EPS serves as a natural emulsifier, stabilizing oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions and enhancing the texture, appearance, and shelf life of creams. Unlike synthetic emulsifiers, EPS offers added benefits, such as moisture retention, skin hydration, and anti-aging properties, making it suitable for premium skincare products. The EPS derived from paddy straw can form a stable, luxurious texture in creams, providing a smooth, pleasant application experience while supporting hydration and skin health. Packaged in a biodegradable or recyclable container, this cosmetic product aligns with sustainable and eco-conscious consumer preferences, offering both environmental and health benefits.
, Claims:1. A method for producing bacterial exopolysaccharides (EPS) from agricultural waste, specifically paddy straw, for use as an emulsifying agent in cosmetic creams, comprising the steps of substrate preparation, bacterial inoculation, EPS extraction, and integration into cosmetic formulations.
2. The method as claimed in Claim 1, wherein paddy straw is processed through drying, grinding, and mild acid or steam pre-treatment to enhance bacterial access to nutrients and facilitate EPS production.
3. The method as claimed in Claim 1, wherein EPS-producing bacteria, including Xanthomonas or Lactobacillus species, are cultured on the prepared paddy straw substrate under controlled environmental conditions.
4. The method as claimed in Claim 1, wherein EPS is extracted from the bacterial culture by centrifugation and precipitation methods to yield a high-purity exopolysaccharide suitable for cosmetic applications.
5. The formulation as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the extracted EPS acts as a natural emulsifier, stabilizing oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions, enhancing the texture and shelf life of cosmetic creams.
6. The formulation as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the EPS provides additional cosmetic benefits, including moisture retention, skin hydration, and anti-aging effects, improving the overall efficacy of the cream.
7. A cosmetic product as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the cream containing EPS is packaged in biodegradable or recyclable containers, aligning with sustainable and eco-friendly practices.
8. The method as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the bacterial EPS-based cosmetic cream formulation is designed to replace synthetic emulsifiers, providing a natural, sustainable alternative for environmentally conscious consumers.

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