Versatile Application of Mannosylerythritol Lipid (MEL), Sustainable Material

Abstract

Mannosylerythritol lipid (MEL), a biosurfactant produced by basidiomycetous yeast, is a sustainable material that is highly biodegradable and safe. MEL has excellent surface-active properties and self-assembly abilities. In addition, its application as a cosmetic ingredient has been pioneering, taking advantage of its characteristic bioactive action. Meanwhile, research and development efforts are underway to expand into other markets. For example, in the agricultural field, MEL shows promise as an agricultural spreading agent, enhancing the effectiveness of agrochemicals while reducing environmental impacts. In the livestock industry, the selective antimicrobial properties of MEL are being explored for use as a feed additive to inhibit methanogenesis in ruminants and as an antibiotic-free mastitis ameliorant. Furthermore, applications of MEL are expected to expand to the field of daily life materials, where it is expected to provide moisture retention, antiviral effects, and film surface conditioning effects. This paper provides an overview of the potential applications of MEL, a next-generation biobased material that is gaining attention, in these diverse fields.

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