Quantitative enzymatic production of 1,6-diacyl fructofuranoses

Three different 1,6-diacyl fructofuranoses have been prepared enzymatically. At low temperature (5 degrees C), the synthesis produces quanitative yields of rite diester by simple addition of the original sugar to a solution of the fatty acid in a solvent (acetone) which is accepted by the EEC for use in the manufacture of food additives. A strategy to reduce the reaction rimes is also reported. The method is not limited by the low solubility of the sugar in the medium. In contrast with alternative enzymatic methods, the indicated method minimizes the solvent/sugar ratio. The stability of the biocatalyst (Novozym 435) is high relative to the required reaction time. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Inc.