Abstract
Solid-state fermentation (SSF) has emerged as an effective method for wheat bran valorization, providing advantages like cost reduction, decreased water usage, and enhanced product quality. In this study, wheat bran was fermented using Rhizopus oryzae to evaluate the extraction yield of soluble dietary fiber, the activities of protease and amylase, and the physicochemical characteristics of wheat bran during SSF. The findings demonstrated that the maximum yield of soluble dietary fiber was achieved after 120 h of fermentation at a moisture content of 55%. Simultaneously, protease activity peaked at 45% moisture content after 120 h, while amylase activity was maximized at 55% moisture content after 96 h. The microstructure result indicated that most of the starch granules degraded after 144 h of fermentation at a moisture content of 55%, exhibiting a smooth outer layer of wheat bran. Furthermore, fermented bran showed a significant rise in total phenols, peaking at 96 h at a moisture content of 55%. Flavonoid content also reached its maximum after 72 h of fermentation at 55% moisture content. The content of alkylresorcinols in fermented wheat bran changed slightly under different moisture content and fermentation time conditions, which was consistent with the change in pH value. The DPPH radical scavenging rate was optimal when the moisture content was 55% after 96 h. The ABTS radical scavenging rate, hydroxyl radical scavenging rate, and reducing ability were optimal at 55% moisture content after 120 h. These findings demonstrate that the optimal conditions for the SSF of wheat bran using Rhizopus oryzae involve maintaining the moisture at 55%, suggesting that this method is effective for enhancing the value of wheat bran.