Effects of glucuronic acid oligomers on the production, structure and properties of bacterial cellulose

► Effect of an additive (by-product, SSGO) on the production, structure, and properties of BC was investigated. ► BC production was increased significantly until 2% SSGO addition. ► SSGO was utilized as secondary carbon sources, with considerable decrease in its initially added amount. ► BC produced in SSGO added media illustrated significantly higher mechanical properties. ► Fibrils became thicker, denser and more crystalline with SSGO addition.