The Extraction Process of Bamboo Silica for Halal Industries

Abstract

The growing and persistent concern about halal requirements in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries highlights the need for studies regarding alternative gelatine applications. Gelatine, a polymeric substance, is typically derived from animals such as pigs and cattle. Bamboo, on the other hand, is a readily available plants that has immense potential yet understudied. Thus, the impetus of this study is to understand the gelation mechanisms of bamboo parts, specifically silica from bamboo leaves via physiochemical properties, extraction conditions, and functional applications. The bamboo leaves were incinerated, and the ashes were examined. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis and gravimetric analysis were conducted to detect functional groups related to substance properties. Results revealed the presence of carbonyl groups via FTIR, indicative of a polysaccharide-rich composition while the gravimetric analysis revealed that the extraction process achieved a notable silica yield of up to 71.49%. The findings are beneficial to the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries by providing a novel, plant-based gelling agent not only for halal, but kosher and vegan product development, and to researchers seeking a sustainable alternative for the halal industries.