US 4,557,280 A · Process for reduction of nitrate and nicotine content of tobacco by microbial treatment

Abstract

A process for the reduction of the nitrate and nicotine contents of tobacco by microbial treatment is disclosed wherein tobacco materials are subjected, under controlled conditions, to the action of a microorganism effective to degrade nitrates and alkaloids (nicotine) through a biochemical reaction. The microorganism is combined or grown in the presence of a nitrate containing compound in relatively small quantities. Tobacco treated in accordance with this process has a reduced nitrate and nicotine content, and when incorporated into a tobacco smoking product thereby produces a mild smoke, having reduced nitrogen oxides, hydrogen cyanide and nicotine content. However, there is no loss of desirable flavor, taste and smoking properties.

Claims19

Dependent claims

A process for reducing the nitrate and nicotine content of tobacco comprising:

(a) contacting tobacco with an aqueous medium containing a nitrate containing compound and a microorganism which degrades the nitrate and nicotine content of said tobacco, said microorganism being Cellulomonas sp.;
and,
(b) maintaining said tobacco in contact with said microorganism for about 18 hours at a temperature of from about 20.degree. C. to about 40.degree. C.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Process for reduction of nitrate and nicotine content of tobacco by microbial treatment

Life of this patent

Process for reduction of nitrate and nicotine content of tobacco by microbial treatment

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims19