Enzymatic Extraction and Characteristics of Collagen Fibers from Cattle Skin

Collagen fibers from cattle skin were enzymatically extracted and analyzed. The results of texture analyzer determination and microscopic observation of collagen fibers showed that extract efficiency was affected by pH, enzyme concentration, and combined ratio. The optimal conditions were obtained as follows: adding 0.5 ml 6 ‰ complex enzyme solution (alkaline proteinase: neutral protease = 1:1, w/w) into 1 g leather, ultrasonic shocking for 20 min, incubating in the shaking box at 30 °C for 24 h, and soaking in the pH = 2 hydrochloric acid solution for 7 h. Extracted collagen fibers are potentially used in edible film production and casing making.