| abstract |
The invention relates to a method for producing a beta-1,3-glucan. According to said method, a matrix containing glucan is treated with a protein having a beta(1,3)-glucanase activity, the concentration of the glucanase amounting to between 0.001 and 3.0 wt. %. The glucane-containing matrix can be a fermentation broth, a culture medium or a suspension, optionally containing undissolved solids, cellular constituents and/or cellular fragments, or it can be a mycelium, a hydrocolloid or a powder preparation having a solvent part amounting to between 20 and 99.9 wt. %. The enzymatic treatment is continuously carried out over between 15 minutes and 24 hours. The glucan-containing matrix is filtered or centrifuged following the enzymatic treatment and the glucan is separated. The invention also relates to a thus produced beta-1,3-glucan with, for example, improved cold water solubility, a reduced quantity of insoluble constituents, increased viscosity or improved filtering properties. The invention further relates to a solid formulation and the use of said glucan for cosmetic applications, foodstuffs or oil recovery. |