Sustainable Antibiofilm Strategy Using Fruit Waste: Eco-Enzyme from Pineapple Core and Lemon Peel Against Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans

Abstract

Eco-enzyme is a versatile liquid produced by fermenting organic material in molasses solution and has some potential antimicrobial compounds. In this study, the organic materials utilized were pineapple cores and lemon peels, which are typically discarded. Oral microbes, particularly Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans, often develop antimicrobial resistance through their defense mechanisms by forming a polymeric layer known as biofilm. This biofilm, composed of polysaccharides, protects microbes from exposure to antimicrobial agents, allowing them to adapt and survive. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antibiofilm properties of eco-enzymes derived from various organic materials. The assessment involved determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC)/minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) and conducting an antibiofilm assay. The eco-enzyme formulated with pineapple cores exhibited higher antimicrobial activity, with an MIC of 25% and an MBC of 50% against Streptococcus mutans. Additionally, the highest antibiofilm activity was observed in the eco-enzyme containing a specific organic matter combination, with values of 68526.23 ppm against Streptococcus mutans and 2235.30 ppm against Candida albicans. The IC50 value for all three eco-enzyme samples was analyzed using a one-way ANOVA statistical test, revealing significant inhibitory activity against biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutans (p=0.023) and Candida albicans (p=0.002).