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How Do Enzymes Work?

What are bio-enzymatic cleaners and how do they work? 

Although not a new innovation, bio-enzymatic cleaners are gaining increased attention from cleaning professionals, and for good reason. These cleaners utilize non-pathogenic, beneficial bacteria to metabolize wastes, soils, stains, and odors. The bacteria accomplish this by generating enzymes tailored to disintegrate specific molecules, such as wastes and soils, into smaller components. These smaller fragments serve as nourishment for the bacteria.

As the bacteria ingest these soils, they break them down into fundamental compounds: carbon dioxide and water. The bacterial population proliferates as they consume the soils, persisting until their food source diminishes (i.e., the soil is depleted). At this point, the bacterial population stabilizes or declines, and they can either be rinsed away during subsequent cleaning or continue their action against new soils.

It's crucial to understand that the enzymes in these cleaners aren't living organisms and lack the ability to grow or replicate independently, unlike bacterial microorganisms. Rather, they function as tools synthesized by the bacteria to aid in the breakdown of large molecules.

Some of the most common enzymes used in cleaning products include:

Protease: targets protein-based stains such as blood, sweat, food residues, and grass stains.

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Lipase: is effective against grease, oil, and fat-based stains, breaking down fatty acids into smaller components.

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Amylase: targets starch-based stains from foods like pasta, rice, potatoes, and sauces, breaking down complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars.

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Cellulase: helps remove cellulose-based stains, such as those from fruits, vegetables, grass, and mud, by breaking down cellulose fibers.

Mannanase: targets stains caused by gums, thickeners, and other polysaccharides found in food products and personal care items.

 

Pectinase: is effective in removing fruit and vegetable stains by breaking down pectin, a complex polysaccharide found in cell walls.

 

Urease: is used to tackle stains caused by urine and other bodily fluids by breaking down urea into simpler components.

Benefits to using bio-enzymatic cleaners:

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Effective Stain Removal: Bio-enzymatic cleaners utilize natural enzymes to break down organic stains, effectively removing even tough and deep-set dirt and grime.

Odor Elimination: By targeting the source of odors, bio-enzymatic cleaners not only mask unpleasant smells but also neutralize them, leaving behind a fresh and clean environment.

Environmentally Friendly: Derived from natural sources and biodegradable, bio-enzymatic cleaners offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional chemical cleaners, reducing harm to the environment.

Versatility: Bio-enzymatic cleaners are versatile and can be used for various cleaning applications, including household surfaces, carpets, upholstery, pet areas, drains, and even septic systems, providing a single solution for multiple cleaning needs.

Alex Johnson, UK

" Partnering with Enzyme products has truly revolutionized our chemical manufacturing operations. Their cutting-edge enzyme formulations have empowered us to create innovative, high-performance cleaning products that stand out in the market.”
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