Ultrafiltration was used to process banana juice (Musa sapientum, shum.) to promote its clarification and polyphenoloxidase remotion. The module consisted in a flat plate unit, with transversal flow and 14,6cm² membrane area. Due enzyme molecular weight two poly(ether-sulfone) membranes were employed, with different molecular weight cut off of 10 and 30kDa. Clarified juice showed yellow color, high translucity and attractive aspect. The 30kDa cut off membrane showed a higher permeated flux than 10kDa membrane. Polyphenoloxidase activity was reduced in 97,5 and 96,2% for 10 and 30kDa membranes, respectively. A cloro-alkaline cleaning promoted permeated flux recuperation and membrane reuse.
banana juice; polyphenoloxidase; ultrafiltration
