In situ production of bacterial cellulose/xanthan gum nanocomposites with enhanced productivity and properties using Enterobacter sp. FY-07.

While bacterial cellulose (BC) is a widely used, high-value product, its industrial production is hindered by the limited properties and productivity. Herein, by combining optimized fermentation methods and adding XG for in situ modification during submerged fermentation of Enterobacter sp. FY-07 (FY-07), homogeneously modified BC/xanthan gum (XG) nanocomposites with enhanced productivity and properties were obtained. The relationship between BC productivity and the contact area between the bacteria and objects was explored. The productivity of BC reached 3.2 g/L/d under optimal conditions. Compared to BC, the BC/XG nanocomposite exhibited coarser fibers along with significantly higher hardness, chewiness, resilience, and tensile strength, making the nanocomposite more suitable for food and other applications. The findings provide a low-cost, simple, and efficient strategy to improve the properties and productivity of BC. This work has significant implications for the in situ modification and production of BC in the biopolymer industry.