In this paper

processes for producing a food-grade glucose solution through enzymatic hydrolysis of celluloserich solids obtained from rice straws are presented. The rice straws were pretreated by acid-catalyzed steam explosion

and the reaction efficiency

toxicity control

and process economic feasibility were studied. Mass transfer resistance to the hydrolysis reaction was reduced by grinding with glass beads. A higher glucose concentration could be obtained by feeding more cellulose in the hydrolysis reaction; however

this also resulted in the production of undesired byproducts. Thus

a soaking process for the cellulose solids in water was developed to effectively reduce the generation of byproducts in the hydrolysis reaction. The resulting food-grade glucose solution can provide 414 kilocalories per liter

and could be used during a food-shortage crisis in the future. The current production cost is estimated to be 0.82 USD·L

-1

.