The Utilization of Lamtoro leaves (Leucaena leucocephala L.) Extract as an Alternative Nitrogen Source on The Formation of Nata de Soya Cellulose from Tofu Whey Waste

Abstract

Nata is not only made from coconut water; it is also possible to produce it from other raw materials. In our study, nata de soya has successfully made using tofu whey as raw material. Research focused  is on the utilization of lamtoro (Leucaena leucocephala L.) leaves as an alternative source of nitrogen in addition to the use of ammonium sulphate and urea which have generally been used in nata production. The selected research method was experimental. First, the Lamtoro leaves were mashed and then inserted into the medium and cooked until it boils. The medium was incubated at room temperature for 12-14 days and the thickness of the cellulose was then measured. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the using of lamtoro leaf extract (Leucaena leucocephala L.) as an alternative source of nitrogen for nata de soya cellulose formation. The optimization of pH and nitrogen contentration have been obyained. Three types of formula have been arranged, i.e. 1⁄2 of the control nitrogen concentration, equivalent, and 2 times of the control nitrogen concentration, to provide the variation concentration. Results found that the optimum pH was 3 and the optimum nitrogen concentration was ½ of the control nitrogen level. Nata de soya has then prepared using optimum condition of pH and nitrogen concentration.  The maximum average of nata de soya thickness was 7.6 mm. In addition to leveraging the ability of medicinal plants and reducing the use of chemicals in the food processing, the use of alternate sources of nitrogen may also be adopted in the wider cellulose nata application.