Natural Dyestuff Produced with Microorganism Obtained from Damaged Apple

Within the scope of the project carried out at Hitit University, it was reported that chemical-free dyestuff was produced using microorganisms obtained from damaged apples.

According to the statement made by the Rector’s Office, Asst. Prof. Dr. Gamze Nur Müjdeci from the Faculty of Engineering started a study to develop a natural dyestuff that will compete with synthetic dyes.

Müjdeci, who obtained microorganisms by using damaged apples in a laboratory environment, succeeded in producing a chemical-free natural pigment (colored material that is completely or almost insoluble in water) from the microorganism she fed with stale bread and melon peels.

Müjdeci, whose views were included in the statement, said that synthetic pigments harm the environment and human health, so the search for natural pigment production has begun.

Stating that they succeeded in producing a natural pigment “Pulcherrimin” by using damaged apples, stale bread and melons in the study carried out, Müjdeci said; “Pulcherrimin is a red pigment substance. It is used as a colorant in different industries. It also protects against the harmful rays of the sun. Its antimicrobial properties have also been determined. It can be widely used in the textile, food, pharmacy and cosmetics industries.”