How Enzymes Aid in Digestion

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An enzyme is a chemical catalyst that breaks up long, complex waste molecules (Hydrolytic Reaction) into smaller pieces, which can then be digested directly by the bacteria.

Enzymes are simply chemicals - they are not living things, and they cannot grow or reproduce themselves. Enzymes are manufactured by bacteria, and used by the bacteria in order to digest waste. The enzymes that are mixed into the products are actually produced by special bacteria, extracted from them in dry form, and blended into the mixture.

Enzymes are added to help them go to work faster. When added to the organic waste, the enzymes immediately go to work breaking down the waste into water - soluble nutrients for the bacteria to digest. The enzymes break the large, complex molecules of starches, proteins, carbohydrates, and cellulose into smaller, simpler pieces. These enzymes act like chemical "knives", chopping the large molecules of waste into smaller pieces of water - soluble nutrients for the bacteria. The growing bacteria will then start to produce more enzymes on their own, creating a continuing cycle of enzyme production.

As the cycle continues, a healthy combination of enzymes and bacteria play a major role in the breakdown and digestation of solids and organic matter within your septic system. Your entire system is best to be thought of as a massive “breeding ground” for bacteria. Keeping your bacteria colony counts at their highest levels will ensure optimal digestion and help your system provide years of trouble free function.