Method for reducing damage to cocoon and organism therein, silk production method using same, and product obtained using same

Abstract

The present invention provides: boiling cocoons and reeling silk while reducing damage to protein of the cocoons or organisms in the cocoons or without killing organisms in the cocoons; a preservation technique for allowing the boiling of cocoons and reeling of silk; a method for producing silk by utilizing the same; and a product obtained by the same. It has been found that, instead of the method for boiling cocoons at a high temperature over a long period of time as conducted commonly when turning cocoons into silk, it is possible to carry out at least one of: boiling cocoons while not exposing the cocoons to a high temperature or while exposing the cocoons to a high temperature for a short period of time; adjusting the method and duration of immersing or suspending cocoons in a liquid that facilitates reeling of silk; boiling and preserving cocoons simultaneously; keeping cocoons at a low temperature before immersing or suspending the cocoons at a high temperature for a short period of time; reducing damage to protein of cocoons by, for example, preventing the cocoons from sinking in water or a liquid; reducing damage to organisms in cocoons; reeling silk from cocoons without killing organisms in the cocoons; and the like.

Description

A method for reducing damage to cocoons and the individuals inside, a silk-making method using the method, and products made from the method

[0001] This invention relates to a technique for boiling cocoons and reeling silk while minimizing damage to the cocoon proteins or the individuals (larvae, pupae, or adults) inside the cocoons, or without killing the individuals inside the cocoons. More specifically, it relates to a technique for extracting silk from cocoons without denaturing the cocoon proteins at low temperatures, or a technique for extracting silk from cocoons while minimizing damage to the individuals inside the cocoons even when exposed to high temperatures, or suppressing the generation and spread of the distinctive smell caused by boiling cocoons, suppressing coloration, or keeping the individuals alive.

[0002] Typically, if a silkworm cocoon is harvested 8 to 10 days after hatching, the pupa inside will mature and emerge through a hole in the cocoon. This hole makes reeling difficult. Therefore, harvested cocoons must be refrigerated, frozen, or heated to kill the pupae. Furthermore, when storing them for long periods, they are typically dried to prevent mold growth. Therefore, the pupae inside the cocoon are already dead when reeling. While raw cocoons with live pupae can be boiled and reeled, the high temperatures they are exposed to during boiling at silk factories can kill the pupae. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can release the pupa's body fluids, including proteins, nitrogen compounds, and other substances, which can contaminate the cocoon. Furthermore, some people dislike the distinctive odor produced by boiling cocoons.

[0003] At silk reeling factories and other facilities, cocoons are typically boiled in a progressive cocoon boiler to produce raw silk. Steam and hot water, near boiling point, are mixed with low-temperature water to introduce steam and hot water into the cocoon cavity. This process swells and softens the sericin (a water-soluble protein that coats the cocoon filaments), improving the ease with which the filaments unravel from the cocoon. For reeling, the cocoons are placed in hot water at approximately 90°C, and then the tips of rice ears are used to cord the threads, which then emerge from the cocoons. This type of cocoon boiling process severely damages and kills the silkworms. It is important to reexamine this silk-reeling method from a modern ethical and moral perspective.

[0004] In educational settings, reeling silk from cocoons is sometimes taught in elementary and high school biology classes, partly as a way of learning about Japanese history and traditions. Cocoons are typically boiled in water at 80-100°C for several minutes, then the temperature of the liquid is lowered to allow the water to penetrate the cocoons. The strings are then attached, the thread ends are removed, and the silk is reeled. Dried cocoons are often used, but students can also use fresh cocoons they have grown themselves from pupae or purchased fresh cocoons. In either case, the pupa inside dies, prompting students to reflect on the blessings of silk and the lives of insects. Many students are saddened by the loss of life. Furthermore, some students dislike the distinctive smell produced by boiling cocoons.

[0005] Furthermore, in these conventional silk-reeling methods, cocoon proteins are denatured by high temperatures. As a result, the dyeability of silk and the texture of the woven fabric are impaired. Furthermore, when silkworm cocoons containing foreign proteins are used to produce raw silk, the foreign proteins are denatured. Given this background, a technology is needed to reel cocoons into raw silk without denaturing the cocoon proteins, including the foreign proteins. To address this issue, methods such as vacuum infiltration and prolonged immersion in saturated salt water have been invented (e.g., Patent Documents 1 and 2). Furthermore, the use of plastic bottles, syringes, and alkaline agents has made it possible to reel cocoons without denaturing foreign proteins, even in educational settings such as high schools, without the need for expensive machinery (Patent Document 3 and Non-Patent Document 1). However, these methods still result in damage or even death to the individuals inside the cocoons.

[0006] Japanese Patent No. 5292548, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-079535, Japanese Patent No. 7004254

[0007] Katsuya Ikebukuro and Kei Kojima: A method for reeling fluorescent silk cocoons without exposing them to high temperatures and its educational application. Biological Education 64(2), 133-139(2023)

[0008] In light of this situation, the present invention aims to prevent the distress and trauma experienced by students and children when reeling silk not only for commercial purposes but also for those involved, due to the death of pupae. By reeling silk without killing the pupae inside, students and children can truly experience coexistence with insects and the blessings they receive. We have pursued ethical silk reeling practices that respect the ethical values ​​of insects. We also aim to improve cocoon preservation methods so that such silk reeling can be carried out for as long as possible, not just during the cocoon harvesting period. Furthermore, we have conducted extensive research to minimize discoloration of silk caused by prolonged boiling at high temperatures, even for cocoons that have died while still in the pupal stage, and to suppress the distinctive odor that results from boiling cocoons. The object of the present invention is to provide a method for reeling silk while minimizing damage to cocoon proteins or the individuals (larvae, pupae, or adults) inside the cocoons, while minimizing coloration of the cocoons, while minimizing the generation and spread of the distinctive odor caused by boiling the cocoons, and without killing the individuals inside the cocoons, a method for producing raw silk products using this method, and a cocoon preservation technique that makes this method possible.

[0009] In order to solve the above problems, the inventors have tried various cocoon boiling methods, varying the temperature, reagents, treatment time, etc. They have also tried various methods, such as methods for ensuring air so that the larvae and pupae inside the cocoons do not die, methods for preventing the cocoons (and the pupae inside them) from becoming submerged in water or liquid during or after reeling, and various storage temperatures, storage conditions, and preservation reagents for the cocoons. As a result, the inventors have discovered a method for reeling cocoons to produce raw silk while minimizing damage to the cocoons or the individuals inside them (larvae, pupae, or adults), suppressing coloration of the cocoons, minimizing the generation and spread of the distinctive odor caused by cocoon boiling, and without killing the individuals inside, as well as a cocoon preservation technique that makes this method possible. The present invention is based on these findings and provides the following [1] to

[18] . [1] When cocoons are to be made easier to reel, the cocoons are immersed in a high-temperature liquid of 43°C or higher, more preferably 60°C or higher, such as hot water, cocoon boiling liquid, or liquid that makes reeling easier, and then the cocoons are taken out into the air or floated in the liquid and allowed to shrink by the heated air inside the cocoons, thereby reducing the amount of liquid that enters the cocoons and preventing the effects of the high-temperature liquid, its components, lack of air, etc., thereby achieving at least one of the following: reducing damage to the larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons; minimizing coloration of the cocoons; and minimizing the generation and spread of a distinctive odor; or a method for reeling cocoons into fibers that can be used as the raw material for reeling, silk floss, pongee, or paper. [2] A method for reeling cocoons, such as fresh cocoons, or frozen fresh cocoons, or fresh cocoons that have been refrigerated, or dried fresh cocoons, by immersing or floating cocoons in a liquid, such as a cocoon cooking liquid, a liquid that facilitates reeling, or a liquid below 60°C containing at least one of water, an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., or by combining immersion or floating in liquids at multiple temperatures below 60°C, thereby achieving at least one of the following without boiling the cocoons at 60°C or above: reducing damage to cocoon proteins, reducing denaturation of cocoon proteins, reducing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons, minimizing coloration of the cocoons, and minimizing the generation and spread of a distinctive odor; or a method for producing fibers from cocoons that can be reeled, floss, pongee, or paper.[3] In the process of making cocoons that are easy to reel, a process of soaking or floating the cocoons in a solution containing at least one of an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc. is included, thereby realizing at least one of the following: reducing damage to cocoon proteins, reducing denaturation of cocoon proteins, reducing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons, minimizing coloration of the cocoons, and minimizing the generation and spread of a distinctive odor, even when exposed to temperatures of 60°C or higher, and a method of reeling cocoons, or a method of making fibers that can be used as the raw material for reeling cocoons, floss, pongee, or paper. [4] A method for reeling cocoons into thread, or a method for turning cocoons into fibers for use as raw materials for reeling, silk floss, pongee, or paper, by combining a step of immersing or floating cocoons in a gas or liquid of 60°C or less containing at least one of water, an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., with a step of immersing or floating cocoons in a gas or liquid of over 42°C containing at least one of water, an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., or by repeatedly performing both or at least one of these steps in addition to the above, thereby minimizing damage to cocoon proteins, minimizing denaturation of cocoon proteins, minimizing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons, minimizing coloration of the cocoons, and minimizing the generation and spread of a distinctive odor.[5] Reeling cocoons, for example, cocoons that have been boiled to make them easier to reel, by floating them in water or a solution; if liquid gets into the cocoons, reduce the liquid before reeling; reeling them in liquid that is high enough to prevent them from being submerged; reeling them in liquid by supporting them manually to prevent them from being submerged, or by using machines or tools, such as a supporting net, to prevent them from being submerged; moving cocoons that are about to be submerged or the larvae, pupae, or adults inside them; adjusting the position of cocoons manually or with machines or tools to prevent them from being submerged; reeling cocoons without submerging them in liquid; cocoons after reeling, and individual pupae and other shed skins and dirt inside the cocoons and removing contaminated cocoons that have been contaminated with contaminated substances from the reeling liquid, or moving pupae and other such individuals in the cocoons to a position where they will not be submerged in the liquid, thereby making it easier to prevent the individuals in the cocoons, such as pupae, or substances that cause dirt or odors, from being submerged in the liquid or water, thereby making it possible to reduce damage to cocoon proteins, reduce damage to larvae, pupae, or adults in the cocoons, reduce coloring of the cocoons, and reduce the generation and spread of the distinctive odor of boiled cocoons; and a method for reeling cocoons using at least one of these methods, or a method for producing cocoons that can be reeled, floss, pongee, or fiber as a raw material for paper. [6] A method of reeling cocoons, for example, cocoons that have been made easier to reel by boiling them, while they are immersed in a liquid other than water or containing something other than water, such as glycerin or oil, or after immersion in a liquid, by removing them from the liquid and reeling them; a method of imparting the effect of the liquid and reeling them simultaneously; a method of imparting the effect of the liquid and reeling them simultaneously, while also imparting the effect to the individual cocoons inside; a method of reeling cocoons while imparting the effect of the liquid and reeling them simultaneously, while minimizing damage to cocoon proteins and minimizing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons; or a method of turning cocoons that can be reeled, into fibers that can be used as the raw material for silk floss, pongee, or paper.[7] A method for producing fibers, floss, raw silk, or thread in a broad sense with different thread characteristics and texture by adding at least one of glycerin and oil to the liquid used in producing raw silk from cocoons, extracting sericin, or processing raw silk, or by treating the raw silk with a liquid containing at least one of glycerin and oil in addition to these processes, and more preferably, a method for carrying out such a method while achieving at least one of minimizing damage to cocoon proteins and minimizing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons. [8] A method for reeling cocoons that are easy to reel, in which, somewhere in the process of making cocoons that are easy to reel, the cocoons are immersed in or floated in a gas or liquid containing at least one of water or an alkaline agent, surfactant, enzyme, etc., at a temperature of 43°C or higher, more preferably 60°C to 100°C, and then removed in a short period of time, thereby preventing the inside of the cocoons from becoming too hot or from remaining at a high temperature for a long period of time, and in some cases, by repeating this operation at the same temperature or at a different temperature within this range, at least one of the following is achieved: reducing damage to cocoon proteins, reducing denaturation of cocoon proteins, reducing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons, minimizing coloration of the cocoons, and minimizing the generation and spread of a distinctive odor; or a method for making cocoons that can be reeled, floss, pongee, or fiber that can be used as the raw material for paper. [9] A method for reeling cocoons into thread, or a method for producing fibers from cocoons that can be reeled into thread-making cocoons, silk floss, pongee, or paper, by combining or floating the cocoons in a gas or liquid at 43°C or higher, preferably 60 to 100°C, containing at least one of water, an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., and removing them in a short time, with immersing the cocoons in a liquid or steam at 50°C or lower, preferably 42°C or lower, containing at least one of water, an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., more preferably a solution containing at least a high concentration of alkaline agent of 1.5% or higher, or by repeatedly performing both or at least one of these steps.

[10] A method in which, instead of treating the cocoons with a high concentration salt solution, the cocoons are immersed or floated in a liquid that facilitates reeling, such as a cocoon boiling liquid, and then stored in a refrigerator or at a low temperature, for example, below 20°C, thereby simultaneously carrying out the preservation process and the process of facilitating reeling; or a method in which the cocoons are stored as is without being immersed in a liquid, for example, in a refrigerator, and then immersed in a liquid that facilitates reeling halfway through storage at a low temperature, for example, below 20°C, thereby simultaneously carrying out the preservation process and the process of facilitating reeling.

[11] A method for reeling cocoons by treating the cocoons at a low temperature, for example, below 20°C, and then preventing the inside of the cocoon from becoming too hot when the cocoon is immersed or floated in a gas or liquid above room temperature, or above 20°C, more preferably above 50°C, and even more preferably above 70°C, or by reducing the activity or respiration of the individuals inside the cocoon due to the low temperature, thereby mitigating the effects of high temperature, thereby achieving at least one of the following: reducing damage to cocoon proteins; reducing denaturation of cocoon proteins; reducing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoon; minimizing coloration of the cocoon; and minimizing the generation and spread of a distinctive odor. Alternatively, a method for reeling cocoons into fibers for use as the raw material for reeling, silk floss, pongee, or paper.

[12] A method for reeling cocoons, or a method for producing fibers for the raw material of reeling cocoons, silk floss, pongee, or paper, by combining a process of immersing or floating the cocoons in a liquid that makes them easier to reel, such as a cocoon boiling liquid, and storing them in a refrigerator or at a low temperature, for example, below 20°C, with a process of immersing or floating the cocoons in a gas or liquid that is above room temperature, or above 20°C, more preferably above 50°C, and even more preferably above 70°C, or by repeatedly performing both or at least one of these processes in addition to the above, thereby minimizing damage to cocoon proteins, minimizing denaturation of cocoon proteins, minimizing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons, minimizing coloration of the cocoons, and minimizing the generation and spread of a distinctive odor.

[13] A method for reeling cocoons to make them easier to reel, by placing the cocoons as they are, or more preferably the cocoons floating in a liquid, at a low temperature, for example in an incubator, refrigerator, or freezer set at a temperature lower than room temperature, more preferably below 20°C, thereby achieving at least one of the following reeling operations or operations to make them easier to reel, such as reducing damage to cocoon proteins due to the heat of cocoon boiling, reducing denaturation of cocoon proteins, reducing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons, minimizing discoloration due to cocoon boiling, and minimizing the generation and spread of the distinctive odor due to cocoon boiling, or a method for producing cocoons that can be reeled, or fibers that can be used as the raw material for silk floss, pongee, or paper.

[14] A method for making cocoons easier to reel by combining multiple alkaline agents.

[15] A method for reeling cocoons, or a method for producing fibers for the raw material of reelable cocoons, silk floss, pongee, or paper, by combining all or part of the steps of immersing or floating the cocoons in a liquid that facilitates reeling, such as a cocoon boiling liquid, and storing them frozen, for example at a temperature below 0°C, thawing the cocoons, and immersing or floating the cocoons in a gas or liquid that is above room temperature, or above 20°C, more preferably above 50°C, and even more preferably above 70°C, thereby achieving at least one of the following: reducing damage to cocoon proteins; reducing denaturation of cocoon proteins; reducing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons; and suppressing the generation and spread of a distinctive odor.

[16] A method for reeling silk without killing the larvae, pupae or adults in the cocoons, by combining [1] to

[15] or utilizing at least one of [1] to

[15] , or a method for producing cocoons that can be reeled, raw silk, or fibers for use as raw materials for silk floss, silk thread or paper, or a method for performing at least one of the following: washing the larvae, pupae or adults that have been spun without killing them with water, or observing the larvae, pupae or adults at room temperature or various temperature conditions without washing them with water, or in the case of larvae or pupae, developing them into adults, mating the adults, observing female eggs, and causing the eggs to develop.

[17] A machine that automates at least one of [1] to

[16] , or a silk-removing kit, a paper-making kit, or a learning material that uses at least one of [1] to

[16] , or a cocoon, a chrysalis, a larva, an adult, a pigment, a cocoon protein, paper, raw silk, degummed silk, or a fiber thereof, or a product obtained from raw silk or degummed silk, obtained using at least one of [1] to

[16] .

[18] A method for providing education or explanations using at least one of [1] to

[17] , or a method for realizing at least one of the following using at least one of [1] to

[17] : reducing damage to cocoon proteins, reducing denaturation of cocoon proteins including proteins expressed by genetic modification of cocoons, reducing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons, minimizing the generation and spread of distinctive odors, removing thin cocoons and other cocoons unsuitable for reeling, and reducing coloration of cocoons due to the color of pupae during boiling and reeling, and a method for reeling cocoons using them.

[0010] When silkworm cocoons are boiled for silk production using the conventional method, cocoons containing proteins expressed in genetically modified silkworms can be denatured. In some cases, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to the release of body fluids containing proteins, nitrogen compounds, and other substances that make up the pupa, contaminating the cocoons. Furthermore, cocoons contain not only pupae, larvae, and adult insects, but also exoskeletons. In some cases, contaminated cocoons can be present even before boiling. Therefore, prolonged boiling can produce a distinctive odor that spreads. Furthermore, traditional boiling can result in the death of the individual silkworms (larvae, pupae, or adults) inside the cocoons, raising ethical concerns and causing children (and adults) to feel distressed about taking the lives of silkworms. This invention makes it possible to reel silk that achieves at least one of the following: minimal damage to the cocoons or their proteins, minimal damage to the silkworms within them, reduced cocoon discoloration, reduced generation and spread of the distinctive odor caused by cocoon boiling, and no killing of the silkworms within them. In particular, not killing the silkworms within the cocoons resolves ethical issues and allows for the creation of more ethical fashion products. Such products should be a purchasing option for ethically minded individuals, as well as vegans who respect the lives of animals. Furthermore, in educational settings, this invention can prevent children from feeling guilty about taking the lives of silkworms during the cocoon boiling and reeling process, or from feeling distressed about taking their lives. This invention increases the likelihood that children, who represent the future, will be able to experience cocoon boiling and reeling with a smile. It also increases the likelihood that children and adults will experience mood and physical discomfort due to the distinctive odor caused by prolonged cocoon boiling. Furthermore, the development of preservation techniques that make this method possible has made it possible to carry out this reeling process for a long period of time.

[0011] Furthermore, this invention allows the cocoon boiling process, or part of it, to be carried out simultaneously with storage at low temperatures, etc., thereby eliminating part or all of the conventional cocoon boiling process. This reduces energy consumption compared to the conventional process of boiling the cocoons from scratch after storing them at low temperatures, making it possible to produce raw silk that is more environmentally friendly. From the perspective of green purchasing, there is a growing trend to consider not only quality and price but also the environment, and to prioritize purchasing products with as little environmental impact as possible from businesses that strive to reduce their environmental impact. This invention is an invention that reduces environmental impact, making it possible to bring products such as thread with less environmental impact to the world. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0012] (1) Cocoons The present invention provides a method for producing silk while minimizing damage to cocoon proteins or the individuals (larvae, pupae, or adults) inside the cocoons, minimizing the generation and spread of the distinctive odor caused by boiling the cocoons, minimizing coloring of the cocoons, and producing silk without killing the individuals inside the cocoons, as well as a cocoon preservation technique that makes this method possible.The method can be applied not only to silkworm cocoons, but also to the preservation and reeling of cocoons from organisms other than silkworms, such as wild silkworms.Furthermore, the method can be applied not only to commonly used white cocoons of ordinary varieties, but also to colored cocoons and cocoons spun by genetically modified silkworms, and can be applied to all strains.Some genetically modified silkworms have foreign proteins in their silk glands. Examples of foreign proteins contained in silk glands include, but are not limited to, fluorescent and chromoproteins such as CFP, GFP, YFP, and DsRed; collagen; peptides primarily composed of acidic and alkaline amino acids; and fibroin and sericin proteins derived from organisms other than silkworms, such as spiders. Once genetically modified silkworms containing foreign proteins in their silk glands have been obtained, those skilled in the art can easily obtain cocoons from the silkworms. While live cocoons are required for silk reeling without killing the individuals inside (larvae, pupae, or adults), the method of the present invention can also be applied to cocoons in which the individuals inside (larvae, pupae, or adults) are no longer alive, such as those that have died during development, dried cocoons, or frozen live cocoons, for reeling.

[0013] (2) Treatment of Cocoons with a Solution The present invention can include a step of treating the cocoons with a liquid or the like to make them more suitable for reeling. For example, a step of immersing the cocoons in a solution containing at least one of an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc. in water can be included. It is not necessary to add an alkaline agent to the water; alkaline water can also be used. Furthermore, the solvent is not limited to water. The cocoons may be ordinary cocoons or cocoons spun by genetically modified silkworms, and the strain is not limited. Furthermore, the cocoons may be those of domesticated silkworms or wild silkworms.

[0014] The water of the present invention may be any water in the broad sense, such as purified water, distilled water, sterilized water, water from natural sources such as rivers, tap water, etc., and may contain trace amounts of minerals dissolved therein, or may be alkaline ionized water. Furthermore, any liquid that can be used as a substitute for water may also be used.

[0015] Examples of alkaline agents used in the present invention include, but are not limited to, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, and sodium perborate. Even if these alkaline agents change in response to heat, they are sufficient as long as they maintain their alkaline properties. Sodium bicarbonate water and the like can be reused several times to some extent. Alkaline agents also include amino acids, peptides, proteins, and the like that exhibit alkaline properties. Commercially available sodium bicarbonate, L-arginine, and the like that are not as pure as reagents can also be used.

[0016] Examples of surfactants include, but are not limited to, nonionic surfactants such as fatty acid diethanolamides and polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate, anionic surfactants such as fatty acid sodium salts, cationic surfactants such as alkyltrimethylammonium salts, and amphoteric surfactants such as alkyldimethylamine oxides.

[0017] Enzymes include, but are not limited to, proteolytic enzymes, such as serine proteases and papain enzymes.

[0018] (3) A method for reducing the amount of liquid entering the cocoon to facilitate reeling. In the typical cocoon boiling method, the cocoon is immersed in high-temperature steam or liquid, and then submerged in lower-temperature water to introduce liquid into the cocoon. While introducing liquid into the cocoon makes reeling easier, it also affects the survival of the individual silkworms inside. This invention required clearing all of the following points: ensuring air inside the cocoon; preventing damage to the individual silkworms by prolonged exposure to high-temperature steam; and preventing the individual silkworms from being submerged or drowned by liquid entering the cocoon and dying. In the present invention, since reeling was often performed at 40°C, the cocoons were immersed in a high-temperature gas or liquid, such as hot water or cocoon cooking liquid, at 40°C or higher, particularly 43°C or higher, and more preferably 60°C or higher. After immersing the cocoons in hot water or cocoon cooking liquid, the cocoons were then removed from the liquid and placed in cool (e.g., room temperature) air, allowing the heated air inside the cocoons to contract. The cocoons were then immersed in hot water or cocoon cooking liquid for a certain period of time, such as one minute, to ensure the presence of air and to bring the temperature of the cocoon cooking liquid or reeling liquid closer to the temperature of the air inside the cocoons, preventing excessive liquid from entering the cocoons. The cocoons could then be allowed to soak in the cocoon cooking liquid or reeling liquid, or immersed in the liquid. Alternatively, after immersion in the hot liquid, the cocoons could be immediately floated in the next hot water or cocoon cooking liquid, bringing the temperature of the cocoon cooking liquid or reeling liquid closer to the temperature of the air inside the cocoons, preventing excessive liquid from entering the cocoons. After that, the cocoons can be placed in the liquid for cooking or reeling, or allowed to soak in the liquid. These are just examples, and the amount can be adjusted appropriately depending on the condition of the cocoons so that too much liquid does not get into the cocoons.

[0019] The cocoon cooking liquid swells and softens the sericin in the cocoon shell. However, even if the cocoon cooking liquid does not penetrate into the cocoons, the higher the temperature of the cocoon cooking liquid, the longer the cocoons are submerged in the liquid, causing some of the cocoons to die due to heat and lack of air. After various studies, we found that when treating cocoons with cocoon cooking liquid for long periods of time while keeping the cocoons alive, floating the cocoons in the liquid to ensure airflow significantly increases the survival rate. We also discovered that if the cocoons are in contact with the liquid, the liquid will spread throughout the cocoon due to capillary action, making it easier to reel them. However, the time for which cocoons are floated in the liquid or the time for which they are immersed while keeping the cocoons alive can be adjusted or changed depending on the condition of the cocoons. The times listed above and below are examples and are not limited to these times. It is sufficient to achieve at least one of the following: minimizing damage to the individuals inside the cocoons (such as pupae), limiting the generation and spread of the unique smell caused by boiling the cocoons, suppressing coloring of the cocoons, and making the cocoons ready for spinning without killing the individuals inside. The appropriate time will vary depending on the thickness of the cocoon and the condition of the pupae inside. Also, exposing the cocoons to high or low temperatures is not limited to gas or liquid. The gas mentioned here is not limited to air.

[0020] (4) A method for enabling reeling while minimizing damage to cocoons and the individuals within them. In the present invention, cocoons are treated with a solution below 60°C containing at least one of water, an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., for example, by immersing or floating them in the solution. This achieves at least one of the following: minimizing damage to cocoons and the individuals within them, suppressing discoloration of the cocoons, preventing the generation and spread of the distinctive odor caused by boiling cocoons, and suppressing denaturation of cocoon proteins. This allows the cocoons to be reeled into raw material for cocoons, silk floss, pongee, or paper that can be reeled without boiling the cocoons at temperatures above 60°C. Examples of alkaline agents, surfactants, and enzymes include those mentioned above. For example, treatment with solutions at multiple temperatures is acceptable, such as treatment with a 58°C solution, treatment with a 43°C solution only, or treatment with a 50°C solution only, as well as treatment with solutions at 43°C and 50°C, treatment with solutions at 42°C and 43°C, or treatment with solutions at 42°C and 50°C. Alternatively, the treatment may be carried out over a wider range, such as with a solution between 20 and 60°C. The temperature at which the reaction is carried out within the range of 0 to 60°C can be adjusted, for example, by carrying out the reaction at a higher temperature of 50 to 60°C to complete the reaction in a short time, or by carrying out the reaction at a lower temperature if the reaction takes longer. More detailed examples include, but are not limited to, the following.

[0021] In typical cocoon boiling, even if an alkaline agent is used, it is often boiled at a concentration of 0.1 to 0.4%. However, the present invention uses a higher concentration alkaline agent or a combination of alkaline agents, enabling reeling at lower temperatures and even shorter times. For example, cocoons are placed in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution and allowed to react at 57°C for 45 minutes while submerged and floating in the solution. This results in cocoons ready for reeling. Alternatively, cocoons are placed in a 1.5% sodium bicarbonate solution, or more preferably, a 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution, and immersed at 58°C for 35 minutes. This results in cocoons ready for reeling. This means low temperatures, short times, and low power consumption. Low temperatures, or short times at low temperatures, not only prevent denaturation of cocoon proteins but also reduce damage to cocoon proteins, suppress the generation and spread of the distinctive odor caused by boiling cocoons, and prevent discoloration of the cocoons caused by individuals inside the cocoons, such as pupae. Furthermore, while methods that enable cocoon boiling at low temperatures typically require power for drying the cocoons, for boiling dried cocoons for extended periods (e.g., overnight), or for using a vacuum device, the present invention does not require such high amounts of power and is therefore environmentally friendly. The cocoons used here can be raw, frozen, refrigerated, dried, or dried; the state of the cocoons is not limited. While typical raw cocoon reeling processes involve high temperatures during boiling, the present invention allows for raw reeling at low temperatures, eliminating the need for high temperatures during drying or boiling, and the need for vacuum equipment or vacuum exposure, thereby providing a new silk product. The type of alkaline agent, alkaline concentration, and treatment time can be adjusted appropriately depending on the properties of the cocoons. Furthermore, depending on the type of raw silk you want to produce, for example, if it's okay for the individual silkworms inside the cocoons to be damaged to a certain extent, you can make the cocoons easier to reel by combining the present invention with a vacuum device or by introducing and removing liquid from the cocoons. Also, if you want to make silk floss or pongee silk or use it as a raw material for paper, it's not necessary to maintain the shape of the cocoons, so you can treat them in a solution, for example, by soaking them, until the sericin has dissolved considerably and they are completely loosened.When making paper, it can be made directly or by cutting it into pieces of 1 cm or less, adding kneading agent and glue, and making paper. The concentration of alkaline agents, processing time, amount of kneading agent, amount of glue, etc. can be adjusted as needed.

[0022] (5) Simultaneous Cocoon Cooking and Reeling Method Normally, after cocoons have been cooked, they are immersed in water to contract the sericin on the surface of the cocoon layer and prevent excessive thread production. However, in a part of the present invention, the cocoons are immersed in a solution containing at least one of an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., which makes them easier to reel. The cocoons are then reeled directly in the solution, rather than in hot water. For example, if the cocoons are immersed in a highly concentrated alkaline agent, such as 3.0% sodium bicarbonate water, and then boiled, they are reeled while still in the solution after cooking, or while floating in the solution, but this is not limited to this. In other words, once the cocoons have been cooked to a certain extent, simultaneous cocoon cooking and reeling are carried out. The present invention aims to reduce damage to the internal organisms (larvae, pupae, or adults) or cocoon proteins, and to suppress cocoon discoloration and odor. This method, excluding extremely low temperatures, shortens the total time spent treating cocoons, for example, at temperatures above 40°C. At a certain temperature, the probability of death increases if the cocoon is boiled for a long time, while a short boiling time results in cocoons that are difficult to reel. One solution to this problem is to reel the cocoons in a solution that facilitates reeling, such as a cocoon boiling solution, which means that the cocoons are boiled during reeling, thereby ensuring sufficient boiling time. In other words, cocoon boiling and reeling are carried out simultaneously, shortening the time required for soaking in hot water. This reduces damage to cocoon proteins and the internal organisms within the cocoon, or even prevents their death, while still achieving the perfect condition for reeling. While this method may sometimes result in a larger amount of thread, this is not particularly noticeable. The type of alkaline agent, its concentration, and treatment time can be adjusted appropriately depending on the properties of the cocoons. Since the raw silk after reeling still has the components of the solution on it, it can be soaked in water at some point afterwards. Conversely, it can also be used to start the refining process, taking advantage of the alkali that remains on it.

[0023] (6) A method for minimizing damage to cocoons and the individuals within them, even when exposed to high temperatures for a short period of time, enabling reeling. For example, but not limited to, the following method can be used. The reeling process can include a step of immersing or floating the cocoons in water or a solution of at least one of an alkaline agent, a surfactant, and an enzyme at 60°C or below. This makes it possible to create cocoons in a state that is easy to reel. Furthermore, to make the cording and reeling easier, it is recommended to expose the cocoons to temperatures above 60°C. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures above 60°C can damage and denature the cocoon proteins, further damaging the individuals within the cocoons, discoloring the cocoons, causing them to emit or diffuse a distinctive odor, and even killing the individuals within the cocoons. However, they discovered that if the cocoon is exposed to a solution or steam above 60°C for a short period of time, the heat and solution reach the cocoon layer, causing the sericin to swell and soften, but in normal cocoons, the cocoon layer protects the pupae and other individuals inside, so they do not die.

[0024] Therefore, when combining a solution below 60°C with a temperature above 42°C (referred to as temperature X), such a combination is relatively easy if temperature X is between 42 and 60°C. However, if a step where temperature X exceeds 60°C, such as 95°C, is included, the treatment time must be shortened, such as to 3 seconds. Other possible combinations include treatment with a 43°C aqueous solution followed by a short treatment with a 60°C aqueous solution or hot water; treatment with a 59°C aqueous solution followed by a short treatment with a 60°C aqueous solution or hot water; treatment with a 20°C solution followed by a short treatment with a boiling aqueous solution or hot water; or treatment with a 49°C solution followed by a short treatment with a 70°C aqueous solution or hot water. By limiting the high temperature exposure to a short period of time, damage to the cocoons and the individuals within the cocoons is minimized, and cocoon spinning is possible while minimizing the generation and spread of the distinctive odor associated with boiling cocoons. The time for which the cocoons are exposed to high temperatures can be any length of time as long as it does not kill the pupae inside. However, the higher the temperature, the shorter the treatment time without killing the individuals inside the cocoons. However, depending on the condition of the cocoons, the strain, etc., the reagents, such as the type and concentration of the alkaline agent, and the treatment time can be adjusted appropriately depending on the properties of the cocoons. Repeated high and low temperature treatments can also be performed, and the liquid, temperature, and time used for the first and subsequent treatments can be changed.

[0025] (7) A method for producing cocoons suitable for reeling using a short-term high-temperature treatment. This method can be performed, for example, but is not limited to, as follows: The cocoons are immersed in water or a high-temperature liquid or steam containing at least one of an alkaline agent, surfactant, enzyme, etc., for a few seconds, e.g., 43°C or higher, particularly 50°C or higher, and more preferably 60-100°C, for a short time, and then removed. For normal cocoons, rather than thin ones, the cocoon layer protects the pupa from the short-term high temperature exposure, and the pupa survives. However, the heat and liquid reach the outer cocoon layer, slightly swelling and softening the sericin. After the cocoons have cooled, if they are ready for reeling, the reeling process can begin. If they are not yet ready for reeling, they are again immersed in the high-temperature water, solution, or steam for a short time and then immediately removed. This further promotes swelling and softening of the sericin, but the pupa inside survives, protected by the cocoon layer. After the cocoons have cooled, if they are ready for reeling, the reeling process can begin. If the cocoon is not yet ready for reeling, after it has cooled, it is repeatedly treated at this high temperature for a short time to cool it down, and then reeled into a cocoon ready for reeling. Repeating this process too many times can damage the pupae inside, so it is best to stop the process when the cocoon is ready for reeling. While the high-temperature exposure time is short, any time is acceptable as long as the pupae inside do not die. Temperatures are not limited to 100°C or below; temperatures above 100°C are acceptable as long as the pupae inside do not die. For example, high-temperature treatments can be performed in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at 95°C for 2 seconds, 80°C for 5 seconds, 70°C for 20 seconds, or 60°C for 60 seconds. At lower temperatures, treatments on the order of minutes or hours are possible; the lower the temperature, the longer the treatment time without killing the individuals inside the cocoon. In practice, the type of alkaline agent, alkaline agent concentration, and treatment time may be adjusted appropriately depending on the condition and strain of the cocoons. When repeatedly treating at high temperatures, the solution, temperature, and treatment time may be different between the first and subsequent treatments. Care must be taken, as even cocoons of the same strain raised on the same diet may have different cocoon conditions depending on the silkworm stage. When removing the cocoons from the solution and cooling them, they can be left at room temperature and allowed to cool naturally, or they can be cooled by floating them in water or a solution at, for example, 50°C or below, more preferably 45°C or below, and even more preferably 42°C or below.Here, any temperature can be used as long as the cocoons are cooled, and is not limited to the temperatures described above. This method can be carried out regardless of whether the individuals inside the cocoons are alive or dead, and compared to conventional boiling of cocoons, it can reduce coloring and odor and damage to the cocoon proteins.

[0026] (8) A method for producing cocoons suitable for reeling using a combination of short-term high-temperature and low-temperature treatments. This method can be performed, for example, as follows, but is not limited to the following. In the present invention, in (7), cocoons are boiled while cooling after a short high-temperature treatment, thereby producing cocoons suitable for reeling more efficiently. The cocoons are immersed in a solution (referred to as Solution A) containing water or at least one of an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., at 43°C or higher, particularly 50°C or higher, and more preferably 60-100°C, or in steam, and then removed for a short time. The cocoons are then immersed in a solution (referred to as Solution B) at 50°C or lower, more preferably 45°C or lower, and even more preferably 42°C or lower, to cool them. For example, Solution B is the same as Solution A but at a lower temperature. Solutions A and B may not be the same, and the type and concentration of the alkaline agent may be adjusted as appropriate. This ensures that the short time spent cooling the cocoons is not wasted, even if only the immersed portion is boiled. As mentioned above, to minimize damage to or avoid killing the individual silkworms inside the cocoons, it is necessary to shorten the processing time by even a minute, except at extremely low temperatures. Therefore, the cocoons are cooled while being boiled. Some silkworms can be reeled immediately, but if not, the process is repeated: Solution A → Solution B → Solution A → Reeling. Solution A → Solution B → Solution A → Solution B → Reeling. This process can also be repeated: Solution A → Solution B → Solution A → Solution B → Solution A → Reeling. Solution B can also be introduced first, such as Solution B → Solution A → Solution B → Solution A → Reeling. Solutions A and B can be combined in any way. Alternatively, any number of solutions, including solutions at different temperatures, can be used. Temperatures can be changed in stages, or automated devices can be used. For example, a combination of Solution A (80°C 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution) for 5 seconds and Solution B (40°C 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution) for 10 minutes can be used, resulting in a process of Solution A → Solution B → Solution A → Reeling. At lower temperatures, solution A (70°C 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution) can be used for 20 seconds, followed by solution B (40°C 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution) for 30 minutes, with the sequence being solution A → solution B → solution A → reeling.At even lower temperatures, solution A (60°C 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution) can be used for 60 seconds, followed by solution B (40°C 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution) for 15 minutes, with the sequence being solution A → solution B → solution A → solution B → solution A → reeling, but is not limited to these.Reeling can be carried out using either hot water or solution B. This reduces damage to or prevents the death of the individuals inside the cocoons, and still results in cocoons that can be reeled. Because there are very limited conditions for the individuals inside the cocoons to survive and be ready for reeling, it is desirable to appropriately adjust the type of alkaline agent, the alkaline agent concentration, and the treatment time depending on the silkworm stage, the condition of the cocoons, the strain, etc. This method can also be carried out regardless of whether the individuals inside the cocoons are alive or dead, and it can reduce discoloration and odor and damage to the cocoon proteins compared to conventional cocoon boiling.

[0027] (9) Method for Removing Thin Cocoons and Other Cocoons Unsuitable for Reeling: In this invention, thin cocoons can be removed by taking advantage of their denting. The method is described below, but is not limited to this. Cocoons with thin cocoon layers unsuitable for reeling are typically removed in advance. However, thin cocoons that are not completely removed during this process experience temperature changes when immersed in or removed from a high-temperature liquid, causing the gas inside the cocoon to expand and contract. Unable to withstand these gas changes, the thin cocoons dent. This phenomenon can be utilized to remove thin cocoons. For example, if performing the same procedure as in (8), using solution A (92°C 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution) for 1 second and solution B (40°C 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution) for 15 minutes, and then reeling in the following order: solution A → solution B → solution A → reeling, it is useful to find thin cocoons that dent after solution A but before reeling. This provides a simple method for detecting thin cocoons. However, some cocoons can still be reeled even if they are dented, so they do not necessarily need to be removed and it is up to the discretion of the person skilled in the art. Also, these thin cocoons can be used for other purposes.

[0028] (10) A method for reeling cocoons while facilitating prevention of submersion in liquid or water, and a method for simultaneously applying a liquid effective for cocoons, the individuals within the cocoons, or humans. For example, this can be done as follows, but is not limited to the following. Considering the ease of reeling cocoons and the flow of cocoons in factories, without considering the survival of the individuals within the cocoons, it is common to fill cocoons with a large amount of liquid and reel them in a state where only a small portion of the cocoon floats, or where most of the cocoon is submerged in liquid. However, in the present invention, to prevent a large amount of liquid from entering the cocoons, causing air shortages or submersion in liquid or water, air is ensured within the cocoons, and they are reeled by intentionally submerging them partially in liquid, such as hot water or cocoon boiling liquid, but floating rather than submerging them, or by shortening the time of submersion if they do occur. Depending on the condition of the cocoons, such as thin cocoons, or the conditions of the cocoon boiling process, a certain amount of liquid may enter the cocoon. In this case, the liquid inside can be absorbed using absorbent paper or the like before reeling, or some of the liquid can be pushed out from the cocoons before reeling (this is referred to as "Prevention of Submergence / Submergence A"). Alternatively, such a process can be included to prevent submergence / submergence without having to check whether the cocoons are fully filled with liquid. Furthermore, to prevent death due to submergence / submergence, the reeling liquid is made shallow. For example, a container such as a petri dish is filled with reeling liquid to a depth of a few centimeters, more preferably 1 cm, and the cocoons are placed on top of it. Alternatively, if a liquid with a certain depth is used, a mesh support or mesh basket that cannot pass through, such as a pupae, is placed inside the machine or device containing the reeling liquid, and the reeling liquid is placed above it to a depth of a few centimeters, more preferably 1 cm, to prevent submergence / submergence (this is referred to as "Prevention of Submergence / Submergence B"). In other words, the depth below the basket can be any depth, and the liquid should be just above the basket, and the cocoons should be placed there to prevent the cocoons or the individuals inside them from falling below the basket. By adjusting the mesh size, it is possible to prevent substances that cause dirt and odors from falling to the bottom. This helps prevent dirt from transferring and odors from being generated and spread. Furthermore, basket-like structures make it easy to move the individuals inside the cocoons after reeling. Alternatively, machines can be used to automatically move the individuals after reeling.In either case, removing the remaining cocoons and the individual cocoons from the reeling solution after reeling also helps prevent the generation and spread of odors. Furthermore, removing contaminated cocoons, stain-causing substances, and molted shells before reeling also helps prevent stain transfer and the generation and spread of odors. The reason we did not set a lower limit for the reeling solution, such as 1 cm or less, was because we discovered that by devising the reeling solution, reeling was possible even without the solution. For example, if glycerin or oil were used as the reeling solution, once the cocoons were immersed in the solution, their lubricating effect allowed reeling even without the solution (referred to as "prevention of liquid / submersion C"). It would be even better if there were a container or device that would prevent the cocoons from flying out when pulled during the reeling process. Furthermore, glycerin and oils, such as oleic acid, have been shown to have several beneficial effects on humans, making it possible to simultaneously impart these effects. The 1 cm or less dimension shown here is merely an example, and should be adjusted appropriately depending on the size of the cocoon, the size of the individuals inside the cocoon, the lineage, and other factors. Furthermore, methods A to C for preventing submersion in water may be used in combination or individually. By utilizing these methods, silk reeling can be achieved that achieves at least one of the following: preventing submersion in water, minimizing damage to the individuals inside the cocoon (such as pupae), minimizing discoloration of the cocoon, and preventing the individuals inside the cocoon from dying. With method A for preventing submersion in water, all that is required is to remove the liquid inside, which can be done by pushing it out manually or mechanically. Alternatively, the cocoon can be placed on a water-absorbing sheet and then allowed to absorb water. With method B for preventing submersion in water, any support is acceptable as long as the individuals inside the cocoon are not submerged in water. Support by hand is acceptable. Furthermore, it is also possible to prevent not only the individuals but also substances that cause dirt and odor from being submerged in water. Furthermore, operations to remove or move items that are about to be submerged in water or liquid may be performed manually or automatically. Furthermore, the type and concentration of the liquid used to prevent submersion / underwatering C are merely examples, and any type or concentration is acceptable as long as it can produce silk that achieves at least one of minimizing damage to the individuals inside the cocoon and not killing the individuals inside the cocoon, or as long as it can have an effect on the individuals inside and living organisms such as humans.

[0029] (11) A method for enabling reeling while minimizing damage to cocoons and the individuals within them, even when exposed to temperatures above 100°C for a short period of time. This method can be performed, for example, but is not limited to, the following. In the present invention, the reeling process includes a step of immersing or floating cocoons in a solution above 100°C containing water or at least one of an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., at some point. This allows for the creation of cocoons in a state that is easy to reel. However, since it is difficult to exceed 100°C using water alone, it is effective to dissolve a large amount of something to achieve the effect of raising the boiling point. For example, in anticipation of facilitating reeling, a 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution was prepared and vigorously heated to above 100°C, e.g., just under 101°C. Cocoons that had been reacted overnight in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate aqueous solution at approximately 8°C were placed in the solution, and within a few seconds, e.g., 3-5 seconds, the cocoons became easy to reel and reel. The number of seconds that is desirable varies depending on the strain and condition of the cocoon; three seconds or less is good, while five seconds or more is possible. Because it is an extremely short time, it achieves at least one of the following: reducing damage to cocoon proteins; reducing denaturation of cocoon proteins; reducing damage to the individuals inside the cocoons; reducing coloration compared to long-term cocoon boiling; minimizing the generation and spread of the distinctive odor compared to long-term cocoon boiling; and not killing the individuals inside the cocoons, allowing for silk reeling. The temperatures, types of reagents, concentrations, and treatment times mentioned here are merely examples and can be adjusted as appropriate depending on the condition of the cocoons, etc.

[0030] (12) A method for simultaneously preserving cocoons and facilitating reeling, and silk reeling using the same. In the present invention, cocoons are immersed in a solution containing at least one of water, an alkaline agent, a surfactant, and an enzyme, and then reeled. An example using an amino acid and an alkaline agent is shown below. The present invention makes it possible to simultaneously preserve cocoons while preserving them so that the individuals inside them remain alive and transform them into cocoons that are easy to reel. Cocoons can be stored as is at temperatures that are not so low that the individuals inside the cocoons would freeze or be severely damaged, such as 3 to 19°C. It has been discovered that, rather than storing cocoons alone, they can be stored by immersing or floating them in a solution that facilitates reeling, such as a cocoon boiling solution. However, because development proceeds gradually, especially at temperatures above 10°C, the storage period until adulthood is short. Therefore, it is more preferable to store the cocoons by immersing or floating them in a solution that facilitates reeling at 3 to 10°C. This allows the solution to gradually penetrate the cocoons, even at low temperatures, and prepare them for easy reeling. Therefore, when the cocoons are removed from the low temperature, they are ready for reeling. To further facilitate reeling, a short-term reaction at a high temperature can be carried out. For example, the cocoons removed from the low temperature can be immersed or floated in a gas or liquid above room temperature, or above 20°C, more preferably above 50°C, and even more preferably above 70°C, and then reacted. More specifically, a 40-second reaction in hot water or an aqueous solution at 70°C will result in a cocoon that is more suitable for reeling. In other words, it has been found that this short-term high temperature does not immediately affect the individuals inside the cocoons due to the reduced respiration and activity of the individuals inside the cocoons caused by the original refrigerated storage, and because the air and individuals inside the cocoons are cold. Therefore, a combination of a high temperature and a short-term reaction is well-suited. By utilizing this, it is possible to reel silk that achieves at least one of the following: suppressing damage and denaturation of cocoon proteins, suppressing damage to the individual silkworms inside the cocoons, suppressing coloration of the cocoons, minimizing the generation and spread of the distinctive odor caused by boiling the cocoons, and not killing the individual silkworms inside the cocoons. This method, which can significantly reduce the time required for boiling the cocoons, is of great significance both industrially and in terms of the environment, such as power consumption.For longer storage periods, the reeling solution can be adjusted by diluting the concentration of the alkaline agent, arginine and sodium bicarbonate. However, care must be taken when storing cocoons in the refrigerator for longer periods, such as two months, as the survival rate of pupae drops significantly even without the solution. Depending on the circumstances, it may be advisable to mix the cocoons with the solution, use a support (e.g., a basket) to prevent submersion, allow air to escape, or briefly remove the cocoons to check their condition. Alternatively, cocoons can be stored in the refrigerator and then immersed in this low-temperature cocoon boiling solution a few days, one day, or even a few hours before reeling. However, the temperatures, reagent types, and concentrations mentioned here are merely examples and can be adjusted as needed depending on the cocoon strain, condition, and storage period. Furthermore, lower temperatures may be possible depending on the cocoon strain, condition, and storage period. This method can also be used when the survival of the individual cocoons is not a concern. Even in this case, it is possible to minimize damage to the cocoon proteins.

[0031] (13) A method for reeling cocoons while minimizing damage to the cocoons and the individuals within them by utilizing a low-temperature process When making cocoons easier to reel, the cocoons are placed as they are, or more preferably in a liquid, even more preferably in a liquid that is a cocoon cooking solution or a liquid that makes reeling easier, or are floated and placed at a low temperature, for example in an incubator, refrigerator, or freezer set at a temperature lower than room temperature, more preferably below 20°C. This reduces the breathing and activity of the individuals within the cocoons, and the air and individuals within the cocoons are cold, thereby minimizing the effects of heat from cocoon cooking and the effects of the reeling process on the individuals within the cocoons, thereby achieving at least one of the following: minimizing damage to cocoon proteins, minimizing denaturation of cocoon proteins, minimizing damage to the individuals within the cocoons, minimizing discoloration of the cocoons, limiting the generation and spread of the unique odor caused by cocoon cooking, and not killing the individuals within the cocoons. In this case, the low-temperature process, for example, at 3 to 19°C, can be performed within several tens of minutes if the temperature is only slightly cooled, or within several tens of minutes to several hours if the temperature is further cooled. Further cooling is equivalent to the simultaneous storage and cooking of cocoons described above (12). After examining various temperature settings other than these low temperatures, we discovered that cocoons can survive even at temperatures below 3°C and even below 0°C. For example, cocoons placed in a freezer at -18°C or similar, either as cocoons or immersed in liquid or floating, do not freeze immediately. In particular, when cocoons are placed in a liquid such as cocoon cooking liquid, depending on the amount of liquid, it takes time for the liquid and cocoons to cool, and it can take several hours for them to begin freezing. Taking advantage of this, the low-temperature process can be achieved by placing them in the freezer within several hours, or even more safely, within 30 minutes, or even more safely, within 10 minutes. However, the temperatures and times mentioned here are merely examples, and any temperature and time setting will do as long as the individuals inside the cocoons do not freeze to death or suffer severe damage. These can be adjusted as appropriate depending on how low the freezer can be set to, such as -18°C, -20°C, -50°C, or -80°C, as well as the performance of the freezer and the condition of the cocoons. The device that can provide the low temperature can be an incubator, refrigerator, freezer, or even the cold outside air, so long as it is capable of providing a low temperature, it does not matter what machine or environment it is.Furthermore, when placing the cocoons in the freezer, it is possible to use a container with a different thermal conductivity, for example, one with a high thermal conductivity, or to use the heat of vaporization to cool them quickly. Furthermore, a step of removing the cocoons from the freezer during the process may be included to check the condition of the cocoons or the liquid in which they are immersed. This method can also be implemented when the survival of the cocoons is not a concern. Even in this case, it is possible to minimize damage to the cocoon proteins. Furthermore, if the survival of the cocoons is not an issue, the cocoons can be immersed in a liquid such as a cocoon boiling solution and stored in the freezer for long periods of time. In this case, the cocoons are completely frozen, so thawing, for example, by leaving them at room temperature for several hours to several days or by treating them for a short period at a high temperature above room temperature, allows the cocoon boiling solution to further act on the cocoons and prepare them for reeling. In addition, to further facilitate reeling, cocoons can be immersed or floated in a gas or liquid above room temperature, or above 20°C, more preferably above 50°C, and even more preferably above 70°C, to allow the reaction to occur.

[0032] (14) Cocoon Reeling Using a Combination of Multiple Alkaline Agents In this invention, cocoons are soaked in a solution containing at least one of amino acids, alkaline agents, surfactants, enzymes, etc., before reeling. Below are examples using only amino acids, only alkaline agents, and both amino acids and alkaline agents. Cocoon boiling experiments were conducted using various amino acids, and L-arginine was found to be the most effective in facilitating reeling. This may be due to the alkaline nature of L-arginine aqueous solutions. We then compared the ease of reeling and the ability to minimize damage to the individual components of the cocoon using L-arginine, baking soda, and both L-arginine and baking soda as alkaline agents. We found that all of these alkaline agents minimized damage to the individual components and facilitated reeling. Among these, the combination of L-arginine and baking soda facilitated both cording and reeling on average. This demonstrates that it is possible to use a combination of multiple alkaline agents, rather than simply adjusting the pH through the concentration of the alkaline agent. The alkaline agents listed here are merely examples, and any combination of alkaline agents is possible. Other ingredients include sodium perborate, and it has been found that a combination of L-arginine, baking soda, and sodium perborate can also be used to reel silk while minimizing damage to the individual fibers.

[0033] (15) A method for reeling silk without killing the individuals within the cocoons. By combining multiple methods (1) through (14) or utilizing at least one of them, the present invention achieves at least one of the following: suppressing damage to cocoon proteins and denaturation of cocoon proteins, suppressing damage to the individuals within the cocoons, suppressing coloration of the cocoons, minimizing the generation and spread of the distinctive odor caused by cocoon boiling, and not killing the individuals within the cocoons. However, since some cocoons are already dead, stuck together, or weakened by transport during transportation, some cocoons will be dead or will die regardless of the cocoon boiling and reeling conditions. When obtaining experimental data, it is necessary to consider the existence of such cocoons. It would be desirable to state that by combining several of the present inventions, silk can be reeled without killing 100% of the individuals within the cocoons. However, the current situation is that some cocoons are already dead, and the timing of their death is unknown. Taking these circumstances into consideration, below are two examples of methods for reeling silk without killing the individuals inside the cocoon. After reeling, if you remove an individual from the cocoon, such as a pupa, and touch it, or even if you don't, you can confirm that the pupa is alive or was alive by observing whether it moves, the movement of the internal fluid, whether it progresses in development, or whether it emerges as an adult. Even if the pupa does not appear to be moving, it may emerge a few days later, so careful observation is important. If you can observe the pupa inside the cocoon without removing it after reeling, you can observe it as is, or even if you cannot observe the pupa, you can confirm that the individual is alive or was alive by observing the emergence of an adult from the cocoon. Similarly, if the individual inside the cocoon is a larva, you can determine whether it is alive by observing whether it moves, whether its development progresses, and whether it emerges as an adult. Similarly, if the adult is alive, you can determine whether it is alive by observing whether it moves. Furthermore, the pupae in the following examples were developed within a certain period of time, and some pupae were close to developing. However, these examples are merely examples and are not limiting.

[0034] Here's the first example. Raw cocoons were immersed in solution C (70°C 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution) for 20 seconds, then removed into the air. The hot air inside the cocoons cooled and shrunk, preventing liquid from entering the cocoons. The cocoons were then placed in solution D (40°C 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution) and left floating for one minute, bringing the temperature of solution D closer to the temperature of the air inside the cocoons, further preventing liquid from entering the cocoons when they were immersed in the liquid. After one minute, the cocoons were submerged in solution D and continued to be boiled for 29 minutes. The cocoons were then again immersed in solution C for 20 seconds, after which they were removed into the air. The hot air inside the cocoons cooled and shrunk, preventing liquid from entering the cocoons. The cocoons were then placed in Solution D (3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at 40°C) and left floating for one minute, which brought the temperature of Solution D closer to the temperature of the air inside the cocoons and further prevented the liquid from entering the cocoons when they were placed in Solution D. After one minute, they were placed in Solution D to allow them to settle before reeling. After reeling, it was confirmed that the individuals inside the cocoons were alive.

[0035] Here's another example. First, cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution, partially submerged but still floating, and incubated overnight in an incubator at approximately 8°C. They were then placed in a water bath at approximately 70°C for approximately 40 seconds to allow the reaction to continue. The cocoons were then removed from the air, allowing the hot air inside the cocoons to cool and shrink, preventing liquid from entering the cocoons. They were then placed in hot water at approximately 40°C and left floating for approximately one minute, bringing the temperature of the hot water and the air inside the cocoons closer together, further preventing liquid from entering the cocoons when immersed in the liquid. The cocoons were then immersed in hot water several times to allow them to settle, weighed, and reeled with the cocoons floating in the hot water to obtain raw silk. In this case, the steps of soaking in hot water, settling, and weighing the cocoons can be omitted, and reeling can begin immediately. After reeling, it was confirmed that the individuals inside the cocoons were alive.

[0036] (16) Reeling Silk can be reeled using an automatic silk-reeling machine, a reeling machine, or by automatically or manually winding silk around a PET bottle, but this is not limited to these methods. For example, silk reeling can be performed as follows, but is not limited to these methods. Raw silk is extracted from the cocoons after boiling and wound around a PET bottle wrapped in paper. The material used for winding is not limited to PET bottles, and any suitable material, such as cardboard, can be used. After winding, the silk can be reeled manually or automatically using a motor. More preferably, several extracted cocoon threads are combined to achieve the desired thickness and then wound. The temperature of the reeling solution is set to a high temperature, for example, below 50°C, more preferably below 45°C, and even more preferably below 42°C, to prevent the larvae and pupae from dying. Using a temperature-adjustable reeling machine, it is preferable to perform reeling at a temperature of, for example, 40°C. However, if the temperature does not drop quickly, reeling can be performed at room temperature. If reeling takes a long time and the temperature drops too low, the temperature can be returned to 40°C. Furthermore, if the raw silk of a cocoon breaks, it is preferable to find another thread end and reel it in, but if the individual silkworm inside needs to survive, reeling may be stopped at that point, or reeling may be stopped and the pupa removed, depending on the situation. After reeling, the raw silk may be reeled in or turned into reeled silk by a method known to those skilled in the art.

[0037] (17) Observation of Individuals After Reeling The following describes the method for observing individuals (larvae, pupae, or adults) after reeling, but this is not a limitation. If a thin layer of cocoon remains after reeling, it can be observed as is, or an individual (larva, pupae, or adult) can be removed from the remaining cocoon layer and observed. Removed pupae can be washed with water, or left unwashed, and observed for the progress of development at room temperature or various other temperature conditions. If the thin layer of cocoon remains, it is difficult to see the progress of development inside, and it may not be clear that the individual is alive until it emerges. Therefore, it is preferable to remove all pupae from the cocoon. This allows the progress of development to be observed, and depending on the pupae, the flow of internal fluids can be observed as development progresses. Furthermore, since pupae move on their own or when touched, it is clear that they are alive. However, some pupae do not react to touch immediately after reeling. Even if it is a pupa, after a few hours or overnight, it will settle down and become easier to see that it reacts on its own or when touched. You can confirm that it is alive by observing the process of hatching, the emergence of the adult, the egg-laying of the adult, and the mating of the adult. You can also raise the eggs that are laid and observe their developmental progress. Furthermore, you can also raise the next generation from those eggs, and in the same way, the next generation after that.

[0038] Examples of silk reeling kits using the present invention include, but are not limited to, the following: A silk reeling kit including an instruction manual (which describes a silk reeling method that achieves at least one of the following: reducing damage to cocoon proteins, reducing denaturation of cocoon proteins, reducing damage to the individuals inside the cocoons, reducing discoloration caused by boiling the cocoons, reducing the generation and spread of the distinctive smell caused by boiling the cocoons, and not killing the individuals inside the cocoons), reagents (e.g., baking soda, arginine), a perforated plastic bottle for reeling raw silk, construction paper to wind the plastic bottle for reeling, a rod to serve as the shaft of the plastic bottle for reeling, a container to fit the plastic bottle for reeling, a broom or toothbrush for stringing, a container to hold the cocoons when reeling, a motor for automatic reeling, or a set of a motor and a switch, or a set consisting of some of these. The term "cocoon" here refers to any cocoon spun by any genetically modified silkworm, as well as any commonly used normal variety of cocoon, and can be applied to both white and colored cocoons, and is not limited to any particular strain. It can also be applied to cocoons spun by organisms other than silkworms. However, if you are creating a silk-removal kit that minimizes damage to the individuals inside the cocoon and does not kill them, you should use cocoons with living individuals inside.

[0039] The silk-reeling kit of the present invention allows children and students to reel silk while achieving at least one of the following: reducing damage to cocoon proteins, reducing denaturation of cocoon proteins, reducing damage to the individual silkworms inside the cocoons, reducing coloration caused by boiling the cocoons, reducing the generation and spread of the distinctive odor caused by boiling the cocoons, and not killing the individual silkworms inside the cocoons. This is particularly significant because it allows students to enjoy reeling silk from cocoons without killing the individual silkworms (larvae, pupae, or adults). In educational settings, this kit can eliminate or reduce the number of students who worry about the death of pupae or experience trauma or distress from killing them. Furthermore, there are many people, not just children and students, who, from an ethical standpoint, are concerned about the intentional killing of silkworms when obtaining raw silk. This invention will also be of ethical value to these people. Some peace silk products are made from cocoons that have holes in them, which are then harvested after the pupae have emerged. However, these holes prevent the cocoons from being extracted as long threads (reeling). This invention has commercial value because it retains the peace silk characteristics of silk by not killing the pupae, but allows the cocoons to be reeled before they emerge. This means that the cocoons are free of holes and can be extracted as long threads. While some people and countries eat the pupae, the pupae themselves are valuable because they are less damaged by the boiling process, have a reduced odor, and are less discolored. Similarly, the larvae, adults, and the remains of the cocoons after reeling, as well as the raw silk, are equally valuable. Furthermore, the ability to observe the development of pupae after reeling offers significant educational value. This invention has the potential to serve as a teaching material for children, who will be responsible for tomorrow, by encouraging them to consider the blessings of silkworms, coexistence with other living creatures, and the importance of life.

[0040] Furthermore, paper production using cocoon thread obtained by the present invention can be performed, for example, but is not limited to, as follows: The obtained cocoon thread is chopped, dispersed in water, kneaded and glued, mixed, then paper-made, and dried. Kneading is not necessary; starch glue or other glue can be used, but any glue with adhesive properties can be used. The amounts of kneaded and glued materials can be adjusted as appropriate by those skilled in the art. This paper production method does not require the felling of forests or plants, making it environmentally friendly and contributing to global warming countermeasures. Children and students can learn how to make paper from materials other than pulp. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to commercial applications and has educational value. When thread from colored cocoons is used, colored paper can be produced without dyeing. Furthermore, if raw silk from genetically modified silkworms containing fluorescent proteins in their silk glands can be used, fluorescent paper can be produced.

[0041] Examples of paper production kits using the present invention include, but are not limited to, the following: A paper production kit may include a set of a container, a frame, a mesh board, raw silk, kneading material, starch paste, a PET bottle for dispersion, an absorbent towel, and a clear file to attach the paper to, or a set of some of these. The raw silk referred to here can be raw silk obtained from any genetically modified silkworm, or a commonly used normal variety of raw silk, and there is no restriction on the lineage. It can also be applied to raw silk obtained from organisms other than silkworms. A silk-removal and paper-making kit that combines a silk-removal kit and this paper-making kit is also possible.

[0042] Examples of educational kits using the present invention include, but are not limited to, the following: A manual explaining that while conventional cocoon processing, boiling, and reeling methods kill the individuals inside the cocoons, such as the larvae and pupae, using the present invention allows for reeling without killing the larvae and pupae inside; a manual explaining the ethical significance of producing raw silk without killing the larvae and pupae inside; and an experimental kit set or a set of parts thereof that allows for comparison between conventional boiling cocoons and the method using the present invention. A silk-removing and paper-making kit that combines the silk-removing kit and this paper-making kit is also possible.

[0043] The present invention also provides, but is not limited to, pigments, cocoon proteins, cocoons, larvae, pupae, adults, raw silk, degummed silk, and knitted fabrics, woven fabrics, clothing, sponges, films, powders, cosmetics, paper, brushes, household items, arts and crafts, food additives, three-dimensional structures, medical materials, and the like obtained by utilizing any of the methods of the present invention at any stage. These can be produced by methods known to those skilled in the art. Examples of cocoon proteins include, but are not limited to, sericin protein, fibroin protein, sericin containing a foreign protein, and fibroin protein containing a foreign protein.

[0044] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited to the following examples.

[0045] Example 1: Cocoon reeling with minimal damage to the cocoon or its contents by immersing the cocoon in a solution containing an alkaline agent at 60°C or below. In this invention, the cocoon is immersed in a solution containing at least one of an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., before reeling. An example using an alkaline agent is shown below. First, cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution, with some of the cocoons submerged but still floating in the solution, and reacted for approximately 45 minutes in an incubator at approximately 57°C. As a result, the cocoons were able to maintain their shape and were ready for reeling. After weighing the cocoons, they were reeled directly in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution to obtain raw silk. While some cocoons required time for stringing, reeling was successful. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and confirmed to be alive (n=4). All of these pupae emerged. Photographs of the raw silk, pupae, and adult insects from one of the cocoons are shown in Figure 1.

[0046] Similarly, when the incubator temperature was raised to about 43°C and the cocoons were left to react for about four hours, reeling was even easier. Not only was the odor reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, but the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that they were alive (n=4). All of the pupae emerged (including those that had begun to emerge).

[0047] Similarly, cocoons that were left to react for about 3 hours and 45 minutes in an incubator at a temperature of about 50°C were also easier to reel. Not only was the odor reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, but the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that they were alive (n=4). All of the pupae emerged.

[0048] In addition, cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in a thermostatic bath containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 60°C, and the cocoons were immersed in the sodium bicarbonate solution for approximately 30 minutes. As a result, the cocoons maintained their shape well, while the sericin was perfectly swollen. The cocoons were left floating in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute, then immersed in the sodium bicarbonate solution several times to allow them to swell. The cocoons were then weighed and reeled directly in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C to obtain raw silk (cocoon filaments). The raw silk was beautiful, with minimal discoloration or odor from pupae.

[0049] In another example of cocoons from a different strain, cocoons (Shunrei x Shogetsu) were placed in a thermostatic bath containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 58°C, and the cocoons were immersed in the sodium bicarbonate solution for approximately 35 minutes. As a result, the cocoons maintained their shape well, while the sericin was perfectly swollen. The cocoons were then soaked in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C, and then reeled directly in the same solution at approximately 40°C to obtain raw silk (cocoon filaments). The raw silk was beautiful, with reduced discoloration and odor due to pupae and other factors. Furthermore, when the same procedure was performed using raw cocoons stored in a refrigerator rather than at room temperature, the resulting raw silk was beautiful, with reduced discoloration and odor due to pupae and other factors. In addition, when a similar process was performed using frozen raw cocoons, the resulting raw silk was beautiful, with reduced discoloration and odor due to pupae and other factors. The raw silk obtained by collecting 20 refrigerated raw cocoons, reeling them, and then reeling them also produced beautiful raw silk. In addition, when a similar process was performed using refrigerated raw cocoons using 1.5% sodium bicarbonate water instead of 3.0% sodium bicarbonate water, the resulting raw silk was also beautiful. However, with 1.5% sodium bicarbonate water, some cocoons took a long time to reel, and the cocoons were not insufficiently cooked. However, reeling was not impossible, and this method was an option when the alkaline concentration needed to be reduced. However, with other types of cocoons unsuitable for reeling (cocoons not intended for reeling), reeling with 1.5% sodium bicarbonate water was difficult. Therefore, alkaline concentrations higher than 1.5% are more preferable for application to a variety of cocoons.

[0050] Example 2: Cocoon reeling with minimal damage to the cocoons and their contents, including a process of immersing or floating the cocoons in a solution above 60°C. In this invention, the cocoons are immersed in a solution containing at least one of an alkaline agent, a surfactant, and an enzyme before reeling. The following example demonstrates the use of a high concentration of sodium bicarbonate as the alkaline agent. First, a cocoon (Shunrei x Shogetsu) was placed in a thermostatic bath (thermostatic bath A) containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 60°C, and the cocoon was immersed in the sodium bicarbonate solution for approximately 60 seconds. The cocoon was then removed from the solution and exposed to air. The cocoon was then placed in a thermostatic bath (thermostatic bath B) containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C in a floating state for approximately 1 minute, and then placed in the sodium bicarbonate solution and immersed for approximately 14 minutes. The cocoons were then removed from the liquid into the air and placed back into thermostatic chamber A, where they were immersed in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 60°C for approximately 60 seconds. The cocoons were then removed from the liquid into the air. They were then placed back into thermostatic chamber B, where they were left floating in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute, and then placed back into the sodium bicarbonate solution and immersed in the solution for approximately 14 minutes. The cocoons were then removed from the liquid into the air and placed back into thermostatic chamber A, where they were left floating in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 60°C for approximately 60 seconds. The cocoons were then removed from the liquid into the air. They were then left floating in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute, and then immersed in the sodium bicarbonate solution several times to allow them to settle. The cocoons were then weighed, and reeled directly into 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C to obtain raw silk (cocoon filaments). The resulting raw silk was beautiful, with minimal discoloration and odor. After reeling, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that they were alive. Some of them had already emerged (or were about to emerge).

[0051] Similarly, a cocoon (Kinshu x Kanewa) was placed in a thermostatic bath (thermostatic bath C) containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 70°C, and the cocoon was immersed in the sodium bicarbonate solution for approximately 7 seconds (Treatment 1). The cocoon was then removed from the solution and exposed to air. It was then placed in a thermostatic bath containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C, where it was left floating for approximately 1 minute. It was then placed in the sodium bicarbonate solution and immersed in the solution for approximately 29 minutes. The cocoon was then removed from the solution and exposed to air, and then placed back in thermostatic bath C, where it was immersed in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 70°C for approximately 7 seconds (Treatment 2). The cocoon was then removed from the solution and exposed to air, where it was left floating in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. It was then immersed in the hot water several times to allow it to settle. The cocoon was then weighed and reeled to obtain raw silk (cocoon filaments). The resulting raw silk was beautiful, with minimal coloring and odor. After reeling, the pupae were removed and confirmed to be alive. All of the live pupae emerged (n=4). Figure 2 shows photographs of the raw silk, pupae, and adult insects from one cocoon. Treatments 1 and 2 were also tested, but the soaking time in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 70°C for approximately 20 seconds instead of the approximately 7 seconds required. One pupa was dead before reeling or due to the effects of reeling, but the remaining pupae were confirmed to be alive after reeling (n=3). While the pupae did not fully emerge, their movement was enough to indicate their life. The resulting raw silk was beautiful. If a cocoon thread broke during reeling, even if the cocoon still looked viable, reeling was stopped and the pupae were rescued.

[0052] Similarly, a cocoon (Shunrei x Shogetsu) was placed in a thermostatic bath (thermostatic bath D) containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 70°C, and immersed for approximately 20 seconds (Treatment 3). The cocoon was then removed from the liquid into the air. It was then placed in a thermostatic bath containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C, where it was left floating for approximately 1 minute. It was then placed in the sodium bicarbonate solution and immersed for approximately 29 minutes. The cocoon was then removed from the liquid into the air and placed back into thermostatic bath D, where it was immersed for approximately 20 seconds in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 70°C (Treatment 4). The cocoon was then removed from the liquid into the air. The cocoons were then placed afloat in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C for approximately one minute, then immersed in the solution several times to allow them to soak. The cocoons were weighed and then reeled directly in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C to obtain raw silk (cocoon filaments). The resulting raw silk was beautiful. Although one pupa was dead before reeling or due to the effects of reeling, the remaining pupae were confirmed to be alive after reeling (n=3). All of the surviving pupae emerged. Photographs of the raw silk, pupae, and adult insects from one cocoon are shown in Figure 3. Treatments 3 and 4 were also performed, with the soaking time in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 70°C for approximately 27 seconds instead of approximately 20 seconds. After reeling, the pupae were removed and confirmed to be alive (n=4). Half of the surviving pupae emerged. The remaining half had only progressed to the intermediate stage of hatching, but the movement of the pupae was enough to give the impression that they were alive.

[0053] Similarly, a cocoon (Kinshu x Kanewa) was placed in a thermostatic bath (thermostatic bath E) containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 80°C, and the cocoon was immersed in the sodium bicarbonate solution for approximately 5 seconds (Process 5). The cocoon was then removed from the solution and exposed to air. It was then placed in a thermostatic bath containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C, where it was left floating for approximately 1 minute. It was then placed in the sodium bicarbonate solution and immersed in the solution for approximately 9 minutes. The cocoon was then removed from the solution and exposed to air, and then placed back in thermostatic bath E, where it was immersed in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 80°C for approximately 5 seconds (Process 6). The cocoon was then removed from the solution and exposed to air, where it was left floating in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. It was then immersed in the hot water several times to allow it to settle. The cocoon was then weighed and reeled to obtain raw silk (cocoon filaments). The resulting raw silk was beautiful. After reeling, the pupae were removed and confirmed to be alive (n=3). Some of the live pupae emerged, while others only progressed to the intermediate stage, such as emerging from the cocoon. However, the movement of the pupae was enough to indicate that they were alive. After treatment 6, the cocoons were left floating in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C for about one minute, then immersed in the sodium bicarbonate solution several times to allow them to thrive. The cocoons were then weighed and reeled directly in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C, yielding raw silk (cocoon filament). The resulting raw silk was beautiful. After reeling, the pupae were removed and confirmed to be alive (n=4). All of the live pupae emerged. Furthermore, when two pupae were placed in a petri dish, one female and one male emerged, and mating and egg-laying between the male and female were observed. Figure 4 shows photographs of the raw silk, pupae, and adult silkworms from two cocoons.

[0054] Similarly, a cocoon (Kinshu x Kanewa) was first placed in a thermostatic bath (thermostatic bath F) containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 80°C, and immersed for approximately 5 seconds. The cocoon was then removed from the liquid and into the air. It was then placed in a thermostatic bath (thermostatic bath G) containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C, floating for approximately 1 minute, and then placed in the sodium bicarbonate solution and immersed in the solution for approximately 4 minutes. The cocoon was then removed from the liquid and into the air, and then placed again in thermostatic bath F and immersed in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 80°C for approximately 5 seconds. The cocoon was then removed from the liquid and into the air. It was then placed again in thermostatic bath G, floating in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute, and then placed in the sodium bicarbonate solution and immersed in the solution for approximately 4 minutes. The cocoons were then removed from the liquid and placed back into the air, where they were immersed in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 80°C for approximately 5 seconds. After removing the cocoons from the liquid and re-entering the air, they were left floating in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. They were then immersed in the sodium bicarbonate solution several times to allow the cocoons to settle. The cocoons were then weighed and reeled directly in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C to obtain raw silk (cocoon filaments). The resulting raw silk was beautiful. After reeling, the pupae were removed and confirmed to be viable (n=4). Some of the viable pupae had emerged, while others had only progressed to the intermediate stage, such as half-emergence. However, the movement of the pupae was enough to indicate their viability. Photographs of the raw silk, pupae, and adult silk from two of these cocoons are shown in Figure 5.

[0055] Similarly, a cocoon (Kinshu x Kanewa) was first placed in a 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C and immersed for approximately 1 hour (Treatment 7). The cocoon was then removed from the solution and into the air. The cocoon was then placed in a thermostatic chamber (thermostatic chamber H) containing a 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 80°C and immersed for approximately 5 seconds (Treatment 8). The cocoon was then removed from the solution and into the air. It was then placed again in a 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute, and then placed back into the sodium bicarbonate solution and immersed for approximately 4 minutes (Treatment 9). The cocoon was then removed from the solution and into the air, and again placed in thermostatic chamber H and immersed in a 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 80°C for approximately 5 seconds (Treatment 10). The cocoons were then removed from the liquid and placed in approximately 40°C hot water for approximately one minute, then immersed in the hot water several times to allow them to settle. The cocoons were weighed and reeled to obtain raw silk (cocoon filaments) (Process 11). The resulting raw silk was beautiful. After reeling, the pupae were removed and confirmed to be alive (n=4). Although the live pupae did not fully emerge, their movement was enough to indicate their existence. Furthermore, Processes 7 and 9 were similarly performed, except that instead of the 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C, a 3.0% sodium bicarbonate and 0.01% nonionic surfactant solution was used. The hot water used in Process 11 was replaced with a 3.0% sodium bicarbonate and 0.01% nonionic surfactant solution at approximately 40°C. The resulting raw silk was beautiful. Although one pupa was dead before or due to the effects of reeling, the rest were confirmed to be alive after reeling (n=3). Although the living pupa did not emerge, the fact that it moved was enough to sense that it was alive.

[0056] Similarly, a cocoon (Kinshu x Kanewa) was placed in a thermostatic chamber containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 92°C, and allowed to soak for approximately 2 seconds. The cocoon was then removed from the solution and exposed to air. It was then placed in a thermostatic chamber containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C, where it was left floating for approximately 1 minute. It was then placed in the sodium bicarbonate solution and left immersed in the solution for approximately 29 minutes. The cocoon was then removed from the solution and exposed to air, after which it was left floating in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. It was then placed in the hot water several times to allow it to settle. The cocoon was then weighed and reeled to obtain raw silk (cocoon filament). The resulting raw silk was beautiful. Two pupae were dead before reeling or due to the effects of reeling; however, the remaining pupae were confirmed to be alive after reeling (n=2). Some of the surviving pupae emerged, while the rest did not, but the movement of the pupae was enough to give the impression that they were alive.

[0057] Similarly, a cocoon (Shunrei x Shogetsu) was first placed in a thermostatic bath (thermostatic bath I) containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate water at approximately 95°C, and immersed for approximately 2 seconds. The cocoon was then removed from the liquid into the air. It was then placed in a thermostatic bath (thermostatic bath J) containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate water at approximately 40°C, floating for approximately 1 minute, and then placed in the sodium bicarbonate water and immersed in the liquid for approximately 14 minutes. The cocoon was then removed from the liquid into the air, and then placed again in thermostatic bath I, where it was immersed for approximately 2 seconds in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate water at approximately 95°C. The cocoon was then removed from the liquid into the air. It was then placed again in thermostatic bath J, floating in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute, and then placed in the sodium bicarbonate water and immersed in the liquid for approximately 14 minutes. The cocoons were then removed from the liquid into the air and placed back into Thermostatic Chamber I, where they were immersed in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 95°C for approximately 2 seconds. After removing the cocoons from the liquid into the air, they were left floating in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute, then immersed in the sodium bicarbonate solution several times to allow it to thrive. The cocoons were then weighed and reeled directly in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C to obtain cocoon thread. One pupa was dead before reeling or due to the effects of reeling, but the remaining pupae were confirmed to be alive after reeling (n=3). Some of the surviving pupae emerged, while the rest did not. However, their movement was enough to indicate that they were alive.

[0058] Similarly, a cocoon (Kinshu x Kanewa) was placed in a thermostatic bath (thermostatic bath K) containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 92°C, and the cocoon was immersed in the sodium bicarbonate solution for approximately 1 second. The cocoon was then removed from the liquid and exposed to air. It was then placed in a thermostatic bath containing 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C, where it was left floating for approximately 1 minute. It was then placed in the sodium bicarbonate solution and immersed in the solution for approximately 14 minutes. The cocoon was then removed from the liquid and exposed to air, and then placed back in thermostatic bath K, where it was immersed in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 92°C for approximately 1 second. The cocoon was then removed from the liquid and exposed to air, where it was left floating in 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. It was then placed in the sodium bicarbonate solution several times to allow it to acclimate. The thin cocoon layer cannot withstand the operations described above, and it collapses under the force of gases entering and leaving the cocoon. The results are shown in Figure 6.

[0059] Example 3: Cocoon reeling with reduced damage to the cocoons and their contents, utilizing a process of immersing or floating the cocoons in a solution containing an alkaline agent at 60°C or below, and a process of treating the cocoons at 42°C or above. In this invention, the cocoons are immersed in a solution containing at least one of an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., before reeling. An example using an alkaline agent is shown below. First, cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution, with some of them submerged and some floating, and reacted in an incubator at approximately 42°C for approximately 1 hour (referred to as Reaction A), and then reacted in an incubator at approximately 50°C for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes (referred to as Reaction B). As a result, the cocoons were able to maintain their shape and were ready for reeling. The cocoons were weighed and then reeled directly in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution to obtain raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae. After reeling, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that they were alive (n=4). All of the pupae emerged.

[0060] Similarly, reaction A was carried out at 43°C for about an hour, and reaction B at 50°C for about an hour, and spinning was also possible. Not only was the odor reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, but the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After spinning, the larvae or pupae were removed, and when they were touched, or even if they were not touched, it was possible to confirm that the larvae or pupae were alive by checking whether they moved, or whether there was movement of the internal fluid, or whether their development progressed (n=4). There was one larva and three pupae. Some of these emerged as adults.

[0061] Similarly, reaction A was carried out at 42°C for about 1 hour, and reaction B was carried out at 43°C for about 2 hours and 30 minutes, and spinning was also possible. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After spinning, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that they were alive (n=4). Some of them even emerged as adults.

[0062] Cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution and allowed to react in a floating state in an incubator at approximately 49°C for approximately 1 hour (Reaction C). They were then immersed in a water bath at approximately 70°C for approximately 20 seconds (Reaction D). The cocoons were then removed from the solution and exposed to air, then floated in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. They were then immersed in the hot water several times to allow them to acclimate. After weighing the cocoons, they were reeled in while still floating in the hot water to obtain raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration due to pupae. After reeling, the pupae were removed and confirmed to be viable (n=4). Some of them emerged.

[0063] Similarly, when reaction C was carried out overnight at approximately 20°C and reaction D was carried out for approximately 40 seconds at approximately 70°C, silk was also successfully reeled. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that they were alive (n=4). Some of them even emerged as adults.

[0064] Similarly, when reaction C was carried out overnight at approximately 30°C and reaction D was carried out for approximately 30 seconds at approximately 70°C, silk was also reeled. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that they were alive (n=4). Some of them even emerged as adults.

[0065] Additionally, cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution and incubated in an incubator at approximately 42°C for approximately 2 hours, with some of the cocoons submerged but still floating. They were then incubated in a water bath at approximately 70°C for approximately 50 seconds. The cocoons were then removed from the solution and exposed to air, then floated in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. They were then immersed in the water several times to allow them to thrive. After weighing the cocoons, they were reeled while still floating in the hot water, yielding raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for extended periods, and the resulting raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration due to pupae. While some pupae died before reeling or due to the effects of reeling, live pupae were also observed. Some of them emerged.

[0066] Example 4: Cocoon reeling performed by adjusting the liquid depth to prevent submersion. In this invention, the liquid level (submersion / non-submersion) varies depending on the size of the cocoon and the larvae, pupae, and adults contained therein. This example uses raw cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa). First, the cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution, partially submerged and partially floating in the solution, and incubated overnight in an incubator at approximately 8°C. They were then immersed in a water bath at approximately 70°C for approximately 20 seconds. The cocoons were then removed from the solution and exposed to air. They were then floated in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute, then immersed in the water several times to allow them to settle. The cocoons were then weighed and reeled in hot water (referred to as Liquid E) at a depth of 1 cm or less, preventing submersion and obtaining raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae. After reeling, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that they were alive (n=4). Some of them even emerged as adults.

[0067] Similarly, we used glycerin instead of hot water as liquid E, and reeled the cocoons to a depth of less than 1 cm, preventing them from submerging in the liquid to obtain raw silk. Compared to hot water, reeling was more difficult, and some cocoons only managed to reel a limited amount of silk. Furthermore, once glycerin was applied, the effect was such that reeling was possible even without immersion in glycerin. The raw silk was glycerinized, resulting in raw silk that could be expected to benefit from glycerin, and had a different texture than that of silk reeled in hot water. After reeling, we removed the pupae, and some still had glycerin on them. While most of the glycerin was wiped off in this study, the amount of glycerin left on the pupae can be adjusted as needed to prepare pupae that would benefit from glycerin. Whether the pupae were alive or not could be confirmed by their movement, the movement of the internal liquid, and the progress of their development (n=4). Some of them emerged. Photographs of raw silk, pupae, and adults from one of the cocoons are shown in Figure 7.

[0068] Similarly, we used oleic acid instead of hot water as liquid E, and reeled the silk to a depth of less than 1 cm, preventing it from becoming submerged. Furthermore, once the oleic acid was applied, its effects allowed for reeling without immersion in oleic acid. Reeling itself was easier than with glycerin. The resulting raw silk was impregnated with oleic acid, allowing for the expected benefits of oleic acid, resulting in a texture different from that of silk reeled in hot water. After reeling, we removed the pupae, and some still had oleic acid on them. While most of the oleic acid was wiped off in this study, the amount of oleic acid left on the silk can be adjusted as needed to prepare pupae that are more susceptible to the effects of oleic acid. Whether the pupae were touched or not, we could confirm their viability by observing their movement, the movement of the internal fluid, and the progression of their development (n=4). Some of them subsequently emerged. Photographs of raw silk, pupae, and adults from one of the cocoons are shown in Figure 8.

[0069] Example 5: Cocoon spinning using supports to prevent submersion. First, cocoons (Kinshu × Kanewa) were placed in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution, partially submerged and partially floating, and incubated overnight in an incubator at approximately 8°C. The cocoons were then immersed in a water bath at approximately 70°C for approximately 40 seconds. The cocoons were then removed from the solution and placed in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. After immersion, the cocoons were then weighed. A basket was then placed in a water bath at approximately 40°C to prevent submersion, and the water bath was adjusted so that the height of the basket was less than 1 cm. With the cocoons floating in the water, approximately 9 strands of silk were collected, kennel-twisted, and reeled overnight, aiming for a length of 27. The silk was then reeled and dried to obtain raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for long periods of time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. Of the nine individuals, one pupa was dead before reeling or due to the effects of reeling, but the remaining pupae were confirmed to be alive after reeling (n=8). Some of them even emerged as adults.

[0070] Next, cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate aqueous solution and incubated overnight in an incubator at approximately 8°C, with some of the cocoons submerged but still floating. The cocoons were then immersed in a water bath at approximately 95°C for approximately 3 seconds. The cocoons were then removed from the solution and placed in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. After immersing, the cocoons were weighed. A basket was then placed in the water bath at approximately 40°C to prevent submersion, and the water bath was adjusted so that the height of the water bath was 0.8 cm or less above the basket. With the cocoons floating in the water, approximately nine strands of silk were collected, kennel-twisted, and reeled, aiming for a total of 27 strands. The silk was then reeled and dried to obtain raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that all nine pupae were alive. Furthermore, all of them emerged. Figure 9 shows the state of the basket at this time, as well as photographs of the raw silk from the cocoons, pupae, and adults.

[0071] Example 6: Cocoon reeling with reduced damage to the cocoons and their contents, including a process of immersing or floating the cocoons in a solution above 100°C. In this invention, the cocoons are immersed in a solution containing at least one of an alkaline agent, a surfactant, and an enzyme, before reeling. An example using an alkaline agent is shown below. First, cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution, with some of them submerged but still floating in the solution, and allowed to react overnight in an incubator at approximately 8°C. The cocoons were then immersed in boiling 3% sodium bicarbonate water (slightly less than 101°C) for approximately 3-5 seconds. The cocoons were then removed from the solution and exposed to air, then floated in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. They were then immersed in the hot water several times to allow them to settle. The cocoons were then weighed and reeled while floating in the hot water, yielding raw silk. In this case, except for the pupae of cocoons that were originally dirty and those that contained larvae, which were probably hives, we were able to remove the pupae after reeling and confirm that they were alive. All of the living pupae emerged.

[0072] Example 7: A method for simultaneously preserving cocoons and facilitating reeling, and silk reeling using the method. In this invention, cocoons are immersed in a solution containing at least one of an alkaline agent, a surfactant, and an enzyme, before reeling. An example using an alkaline agent is shown below. First, cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in an aqueous solution of 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate, and reacted overnight in an incubator at approximately 3°C while floating, with some of them submerged (referred to as Reaction F). They were then reacted in a water bath at approximately 70°C for approximately 20 seconds (referred to as Reaction G). The cocoons were then removed from the solution and exposed to air, floated in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute, and then immersed in hot water several times to allow them to settle. The cocoons were then weighed and reeled while floating in the hot water, yielding raw silk. After reeling, the pupae were removed, and all were confirmed to be viable (n=4). Some of them emerged.

[0073] Similarly, Reaction F was allowed to react overnight at 8°C, and Reaction G was allowed to react for approximately 20 seconds at 70°C to obtain raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that all of them were alive (n=4). All of the pupae emerged. Photographs of the raw silk, pupae, and adult insects from one of the cocoons are shown in Figure 10.

[0074] Similarly, Reaction F was allowed to react overnight at 8°C, and Reaction G was allowed to react for approximately 30 seconds at 70°C to obtain raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that all of them were alive (n=4). All of the pupae emerged.

[0075] Similarly, Reaction F was allowed to react overnight at 8°C, and Reaction G was allowed to react for approximately 40 seconds at 70°C to obtain raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that all of them were alive (n=4). All of the pupae had emerged (including those that had begun to emerge).

[0076] Similarly, Reaction F was allowed to react overnight at 8°C, and Reaction G was allowed to react for approximately 60 seconds at 70°C to obtain raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that all of them were alive (n=4). Some of them even emerged.

[0077] Similarly, Reaction F was allowed to react overnight at 8°C, and Reaction G was allowed to react for approximately 3 seconds at 95°C to obtain raw silk. In this case, one pupa was dead either before reeling or due to the effects of reeling, but all other pupae were confirmed to be alive after reeling (n=3). Some of them even emerged.

[0078] Similarly, Reaction F was allowed to react overnight at 13°C, and Reaction G was allowed to react for approximately 40 seconds at 70°C to obtain raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that all of them were alive (n=4). Some of them even emerged.

[0079] Similarly, Reaction F was allowed to react overnight at 19°C, and Reaction G was allowed to react for approximately 40 seconds at 70°C to obtain raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that all of them were alive (n=4). Some of them even emerged.

[0080] Similarly, in frozen cocoons of genetically modified silkworms containing foreign proteins, the following conditions were observed: Reaction F was performed overnight at 8°C, and Reaction G was performed at 95°C for approximately 3 seconds (n=4); Reaction F was performed overnight at 8°C, and Reaction G was performed at 70°C for approximately 40 seconds (n=4); Reaction F was performed overnight at 8°C, and Reaction G was performed at 60°C for approximately 12 minutes (n=4); Reaction F was performed overnight at 8°C, and Reaction G was performed at 61°C for approximately 12 minutes (n=4); and Reaction F was performed overnight at 8°C, and Reaction G was performed at 45°C for approximately 1 hour (n=4).In all of these conditions and for all cocoons, damage to cocoon proteins was reduced, denaturation of proteins such as the foreign protein expressed by genetic modification was suppressed, and damage to the individual silkworms inside the cocoons was reduced, allowing the cocoons to be reeled.

[0081] Similarly, when reaction F was carried out on a different strain of dried cocoons at 8°C for two days and reaction G at 70°C for approximately 50 seconds, the cocoons were reeled out with less damage to the individuals inside the cocoons, and the resulting raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors (n=4).

[0082] In addition, frozen cocoons of transgenic silkworms containing a foreign protein were placed in an aqueous solution of 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate, incubated overnight in an incubator at approximately -18°C, and then left at room temperature for one day. The cocoons were then weighed and reeled directly in an aqueous solution of 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate to obtain raw silk. While the cocoons could be reeled while reducing damage to cocoon proteins, suppressing denaturation of proteins such as the foreign protein expressed by genetic modification, and further reducing damage to the individual silkworms within the cocoons, reeling was difficult. Therefore, the conditions were slightly modified, and frozen cocoons of transgenic silkworms containing a foreign protein were placed in an aqueous solution of 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate, incubated overnight in an incubator at approximately -18°C, then left at room temperature for one day. They were then incubated in an incubator at approximately 42°C for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes before reeling. The cocoons were then weighed and reeled directly in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution to obtain raw silk. While the method reduced damage to cocoon proteins, suppressed denaturation of proteins such as foreign proteins expressed through genetic modification, and reduced damage to the individual cocoons, some cocoons were difficult to reel.

[0083] Additionally, cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in a 3.0% arginine, 3.0% sodium bicarbonate aqueous solution, with some of them submerged but still floating, and incubated overnight in an incubator at approximately 8°C. They were then incubated in an incubator at approximately 50°C for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. As a result, the cocoons were able to maintain their shape and were ready for reeling. The cocoons were weighed and then reeled directly in a 3.0% arginine, 3.0% sodium bicarbonate aqueous solution to obtain raw silk. After reeling, the pupae were removed and confirmed to be viable (n=4). Some of them emerged.

[0084] Additionally, cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution, with some of them submerged but still floating, and incubated overnight in an incubator at approximately 8°C. Then, they were incubated overnight at room temperature. As a result, the cocoons were able to maintain their shape and were ready for reeling. The cocoons were weighed and then reeled directly in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution to obtain raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration due to pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and confirmed to be alive (n=4). All of the pupae emerged.

[0085] In addition, cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in an aqueous solution of 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate, and reacted overnight in an incubator at approximately 8°C while floating, with some of the cocoons submerged. They were then reacted for approximately 30 seconds in a water bath at approximately 70°C. The cocoons were then removed from the solution and exposed to air, and allowed to float in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. The cocoons were then placed in hot water several times to allow them to settle, and again reacted for approximately 30 seconds in a water bath at approximately 70°C. The cocoons were then removed from the solution and exposed to air, and allowed to float in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. The cocoons were then placed in hot water several times to allow them to settle, and after weighing the weight of the cocoons, reeled while floating in the hot water to obtain raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae, etc. In this case, one pupa was dead either before reeling or due to the effects of reeling, but the rest were confirmed to be alive when removed after reeling (n=3).

[0086] In addition, cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were incubated in a water bath at approximately 70°C for approximately 20 seconds, then removed from the solution and allowed to air out, and floated in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. The cocoons were then placed in hot water several times to allow them to thaw, then placed in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution, partially submerged and floating, and incubated overnight in an incubator at approximately 8°C. The cocoons were then incubated in a water bath at approximately 70°C for approximately 20 seconds, then removed from the solution and allowed to air out, and floated in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. The cocoons were then placed in hot water several times to allow them to thaw, weighed, and reeled with the cocoons floating in the hot water to obtain raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and confirmed to be alive (n=4). All of the pupae emerged as adults.

[0087] Additionally, cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution, partially submerged and floating, and incubated overnight in an incubator at approximately 8°C. Then, they were incubated at room temperature for two days. The cocoons were then incubated in a water bath at approximately 70°C for approximately 20 seconds, then removed from the solution and allowed to air out. They were then placed in hot water several times to allow them to acclimate. After weighing the cocoons, they were reeled in while floating in the hot water, yielding raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the resulting raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration due to pupae. While two pupae were dead before reeling or due to the effects of reeling, the remaining pupae were confirmed to be alive after reeling.

[0088] Cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution, partially submerged and partially floating, in an incubator at approximately 8°C for three days (Reaction H). They were then incubated in a water bath at approximately 70°C for approximately 40 seconds (Reaction I). The cocoons were then removed from the solution and allowed to air out, then floated in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately one minute. The cocoons were then weighed and reeled while floating in the hot water to obtain raw silk. After reeling, the pupae were removed and confirmed to be viable (n=4). Some of them emerged.

[0089] Similarly, Reaction H was carried out for 7 days, and Reaction I was carried out for approximately 40 seconds in a water bath at approximately 70°C, and raw silk was obtained in the same manner. In this case, one pupa was dead either before reeling or due to the effects of reeling, but the remaining pupae were confirmed to be alive when removed after reeling (n=3). Some of them even emerged.

[0090] Similarly, Reaction H was carried out for 9 days, and Reaction I was carried out for approximately 20 seconds in a water bath at approximately 70°C, and raw silk was obtained in the same manner. In this case, one pupa was dead before reeling or due to the effects of reeling, but the remaining pupae removed after reeling were confirmed to be alive (n=3). Some of them even emerged.

[0091] Example 8: Cocoon reeling with reduced damage to the cocoons and their contents, including the freezer placement process. In this invention, the cocoons are immersed in a solution containing at least one of an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., before reeling. The following example demonstrates the use of an amino acid and an alkaline agent. Furthermore, cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution and placed in a freezer at approximately -18°C for 5 minutes. After incubation in a water bath at approximately 95°C for approximately 3-5 seconds, the cocoons were removed from the solution and allowed to float in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. The cocoons were then placed in hot water several times to allow them to acclimate. After weighing the cocoons, they were reeled while floating in the hot water, yielding raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration due to pupae and other factors. In this case, one pupa was dead either before reeling or due to the effects of reeling, but the rest were confirmed to be alive after reeling (n=3). Some of them even emerged as adults.

[0092] Example 9: Cocoon reeling using a combination of multiple alkaline agents. In this invention, cocoons are immersed in a solution containing at least one of amino acids, alkaline agents, surfactants, enzymes, etc., before reeling. Examples using only amino acids, only alkaline agents, and both amino acids and alkaline agents are shown below. Cocoons (Kinshu x Kanewa) were placed in a 3.0% arginine solution (referred to as solution J) and allowed to react at approximately 8°C for 6 hours. The cocoons were then allowed to react for approximately 40 seconds in a water bath at approximately 70°C. Afterwards, the cocoons were removed from the solution and allowed to float in hot water at approximately 40°C for approximately 1 minute. The cocoons were then immersed in the hot water several times to allow them to acclimate. After weighing the cocoons, they were reeled while floating in the hot water, yielding raw silk. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration due to pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and confirmed to be alive (n=4). All of the pupae emerged as adults.

[0093] Similarly, a 3.0% aqueous solution of sodium bicarbonate was used as aqueous solution J, and raw silk was obtained in the same way. The odor was reduced compared to cocoons boiled at high temperatures for a long time, and the raw silk was beautiful, with less discoloration caused by pupae and other factors. After reeling, the pupae were removed and it was confirmed that they were alive (n=4). All of the pupae emerged.

[0094] Similarly, aqueous solution J was replaced with a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution, and raw silk was obtained in the same manner. Although one pupa failed to develop properly, the cocoon was soiled, and it appeared to have died before reeling or had died as a result of reeling, the remaining pupae were confirmed to be alive when removed after reeling (n=3). Some of them emerged. Furthermore, the raw silk obtained from the cocoons of these living pupae was beautiful, with less discoloration due to the pupae. Among the solutions using a 3.0% arginine solution, a 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution, and a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution, the solution using a 3.0% arginine and 3.0% sodium bicarbonate solution was, on average, easier to find threads and reel.

[0095] Figure 1 shows photographs of raw silk reeled from cocoons boiled in a 57°C aqueous solution containing a high concentration of alkaline agent, preventing the denaturation of cocoon proteins, pupae after reeling, and the adults that emerged from the pupae. (Example 1) Figure 2 shows photographs of cocoon thread reeled from cocoons immersed in a high-temperature (70°C) aqueous solution containing a high concentration of alkaline agent for a short period of time (7 seconds x 2 times), then immersed in hot water, pupae after reeling, and the adults that emerged from the pupae. (Example 2) Figure 3 shows photographs of cocoon thread reeled from cocoons boiled in a high-temperature (70°C) aqueous solution for a short period of time (20 seconds x 2 times) and simultaneously boiled and reeled, pupae after reeling, and the adults that emerged from the pupae. (Example 2) Figure 4 is a photograph of cocoon thread reeled by immersing cocoons in a high-temperature (80°C) aqueous solution containing a high concentration of alkaline agent for a short period of time (5 seconds x 2 times), and by simultaneously cooking the cocoons and reeling them, as well as pupae after reeling, and adults that have emerged from the pupae. (Example 2) Figure 5 is a photograph of cocoon thread reeled by immersing cocoons in a high-temperature (80°C) aqueous solution containing a high concentration of alkaline agent for a short period of time (5 seconds x 3 times), and by simultaneously cooking the cocoons and reeling them, as well as pupae after reeling, adults that have emerged from the pupae, and pupae that have progressed in development. (Example 2) Figure 6 is a photograph of a thin cocoon that has become flattened by immersing cocoons in a high-temperature (92°C) solution containing a high concentration of alkaline agent for a short period of time. (Example 2) Figure 7 is a photograph of raw silk produced by reeling cocoons soaked in glycerin to a depth of less than 1 cm to prevent submersion, pupae after reeling, and adult insects that have emerged from the pupae. (Example 4) Figure 8 is a photograph of raw silk produced by reeling cocoons soaked in oleic acid to a depth of less than 1 cm to prevent submersion, pupae after reeling, and adult insects that have emerged from the pupae. (Example 4) Figure 9 is a photograph of raw silk produced by reeling cocoons using a basket to prevent submersion, raw silk that has been reeled back and dried after reeling, pupae after reeling, and adult insects that have emerged from the pupae. (Example 5) Figure 10 is a photograph of raw silk produced by reeling cocoons that have been simultaneously subjected to low-temperature storage and a process to make them easier to reel, followed by treatment at 70°C for a short period of time, pupae after reeling, and adult insects that have emerged from the pupae. (Example 7)

Claims

1. A method for reeling cocoons to make them easier to reel, by immersing the cocoons in a hot liquid of 43°C or higher, more preferably 60°C or higher, such as hot water, boiled cocoon liquid, or liquid that makes reeling easier, and then removing the cocoons into the air or floating them in the liquid and waiting for the hot air inside the cocoons to shrink, thereby reducing the amount of liquid that enters the cocoons and preventing the effects of the hot liquid, its components, lack of air, etc., and achieving at least one of the following: reducing damage to the larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons; minimizing coloration of the cocoons; and minimizing the generation and spread of a unique odor; or a method for turning the cocoons into fibers that can be used to make reeled cocoons, silk floss, pongee, or paper.

2. A method for reeling cocoons, for example fresh cocoons, or frozen fresh cocoons, or fresh cocoons that have been refrigerated, or dried fresh cocoons, by immersing or floating cocoons in a liquid, for example a cocoon boiling liquid, or a liquid that facilitates reeling, or a liquid below 60°C containing at least one of water, an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., or by combining immersion or floating in liquids of multiple temperatures below 60°C, thereby realizing at least one of the following without boiling the cocoons at 60°C or above: reducing damage to the cocoon proteins, reducing denaturation of the cocoon proteins, reducing damage to the larvae, pupae or adults inside the cocoons, minimizing coloration of the cocoons, and minimizing the generation and spread of a unique odor, or a method for turning the cocoons into fibers that can be used as the raw material for reeling, silk floss, pongee, or paper.

3. A method for reeling cocoons into thread, which includes a process for soaking or floating the cocoons in a solution containing at least one of an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., thereby realizing at least one of the following, even when exposed to temperatures of 60°C or above: reducing damage to the cocoon proteins; reducing the denaturation of the cocoon proteins; reducing damage to the larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoon; minimizing coloration of the cocoon; and minimizing the generation and spread of a distinctive odor, or a method for making cocoons that can be reeled into thread, silk floss, pongee, or fiber that can be used as the raw material for paper.

4. A method for reeling cocoons into thread by combining a step of soaking or floating the cocoons in a gas or liquid of 60°C or less containing at least one of water, an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., and a step of soaking or floating the cocoons in a gas or liquid of over 42°C containing at least one of water, an alkaline agent, a surfactant, an enzyme, etc., or by repeatedly performing both or at least one of these steps, thereby realizing at least one of the following: reducing damage to the cocoon proteins, reducing the denaturation of the cocoon proteins, reducing damage to the larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons, minimizing the coloring of the cocoons, and minimizing the generation and spread of a unique odor, or a method for turning cocoons into fibers that can be reeled into thread, silk floss, pongee, or paper.

5. Reeling cocoons, for example those that have been boiled to make them easier to reel, by floating them on water or a solution; if liquid has entered the cocoon, reduce the amount of liquid before reeling; reeling by immersing the cocoon in liquid at a height that will prevent it from becoming submerged; reeling by supporting the cocoon by hand or using a machine or tool such as a supporting net to prevent it from becoming submerged; moving cocoons that are about to become submerged or the larvae, pupae, or adults inside them; adjusting the position of the cocoon manually or with a machine or tool to prevent it from becoming submerged; reeling without immersing the cocoon in liquid; cocoons after reeling and individual pupae and other shells and dirty items inside the cocoon The present invention provides a method for easily preventing the submersion of individuals in a cocoon, such as pupae, or substances that cause dirt or odor, from the liquid or water by carrying out at least one of the following: removing contaminated cocoons that have been mixed in with cocoons from the reeling liquid; and moving individuals in the cocoon, such as pupae, to a position where they will not be submerged in the liquid or water, thereby enabling at least one of the following to be achieved: suppressing damage to cocoon proteins; suppressing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults in the cocoon; reducing coloration of the cocoon; and reducing the generation and spread of the odor peculiar to boiled cocoons; and a method for reeling cocoons using at least one of these methods, or a method for making cocoons that can be reeled, silk floss, pongee, or fiber that can be used as the raw material for paper.

6. A method of reeling cocoons, for example those that have been boiled to make them easier to reel, while they are immersed in a liquid other than water or that contains something other than water, for example glycerin or oil, or by immersing them in a liquid and then removing them from the liquid and reeling them, or a method of imparting the effect of the liquid and reeling them simultaneously, or a method of imparting the effect of the liquid and reeling them simultaneously while also imparting that effect to the individual parts inside, or a method of reeling cocoons while imparting the effect of the liquid and reeling them simultaneously while minimizing damage to the cocoon proteins and minimizing damage to the larvae, pupae or adults inside the cocoons, or a method of turning cocoons that can be reeled into fibers for use as the raw material for silk floss, pongee or paper.

7. A method for producing fiber, silk floss, raw silk, or thread in a broad sense with different thread characteristics and texture by adding at least one of glycerin and oil to the liquid used in producing raw silk from cocoons, or when extracting sericin, or when processing raw silk, or by treating the raw silk with a liquid containing at least one of glycerin and oil in addition to these processes, and more preferably a method for carrying out such a method which achieves at least one of minimizing damage to cocoon proteins and minimizing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons.

8. A method for reeling cocoons which achieves at least one of the following: reducing damage to cocoon proteins, reducing denaturation of cocoon proteins, reducing damage to larvae, pupae or adults inside the cocoon, minimizing coloration of the cocoon, and minimizing the generation and spread of a distinctive odor, or a method for producing cocoons which can be reeled, silk floss, pongee or paper by immersing or floating the cocoons in a gas or liquid containing at least one of water or an alkaline agent, surfactant, enzyme, etc., at a temperature of 43°C or higher, more preferably 60°C to 100°C, and then removing the cocoons in a short period of time, thereby preventing the inside of the cocoon from becoming too hot or maintaining the high temperature, and optionally repeating this process at the same temperature or at a different temperature within this range.

9. A method for reeling cocoons into thread, or a method for producing fibers for the raw material of cocoons, silk floss, pongee or paper, which can be reeled into thread by combining or floating the cocoons in a gas or liquid of 43°C or higher, more preferably 60-100°C, containing at least one of water or an alkaline agent, surfactant, enzyme, etc., and removing them in a short period of time with immersing the cocoons in a liquid or steam of 50°C or lower, more preferably 42°C or lower, containing at least one of water or an alkaline agent, surfactant, enzyme, etc., more preferably a solution containing at least a high concentration of alkaline agent of 1.5% or more, or by repeatedly performing at least one of these in addition to the above, thereby minimizing damage to cocoon proteins, minimizing denaturation of cocoon proteins, minimizing damage to larvae, pupae or adults inside the cocoons, minimizing coloration of the cocoons, and minimizing the generation and spread of a unique odor.

10. A method in which, rather than treating the cocoons with a high concentration salt solution, they are immersed or floated in a liquid that facilitates reeling, such as a cocoon boiling liquid, and then stored in the refrigerator or at a low temperature, for example below 20°C, thereby simultaneously carrying out the processes of preservation and making the cocoons easier to reel; or a method in which the cocoons are stored as is without being immersed in any liquid, for example in the refrigerator, and then immersed in a liquid that facilitates reeling halfway through the storage period at a low temperature, for example below 20°C, thereby simultaneously carrying out the processes of preservation and making the cocoons easier to reel.

11. A method for reeling cocoons by treating the cocoons at a low temperature, for example below 20°C, and then preventing the inside of the cocoon from becoming suddenly hot when the cocoon is immersed in or floated in a gas or liquid above room temperature, or above 20°C, more preferably above 50°C, and even more preferably above 70°C, and by reducing the activity or respiration of the individuals inside the cocoon due to the low temperature, thereby mitigating the effects of high temperature, thereby achieving at least one of the following: reducing damage to cocoon proteins, reducing denaturation of cocoon proteins, reducing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoon, minimizing coloration of the cocoon, and minimizing the generation and spread of a unique odor, or a method for turning cocoons into fibers that can be reeled into cocoons, silk floss, pongee, or paper.

12. A method for reeling cocoons into thread by combining a process of immersing or floating the cocoons in a liquid that makes reeling easier, such as a cocoon boiling liquid, and storing them in a refrigerator or treating them at a low temperature, for example below 20°C, with a process of immersing or floating the cocoons in a gas or liquid that is above room temperature, or above 20°C, more preferably above 50°C, and even more preferably above 70°C, or by repeatedly performing at least one of these processes in addition to the above, thereby realizing at least one of the following: reducing damage to cocoon proteins, reducing denaturation of cocoon proteins, reducing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons, minimizing coloration of the cocoons, and minimizing the generation and spread of a unique odor, or a method for producing cocoons that can be reeled into thread, silk floss, pongee, or fiber that can be used as the raw material for paper.

13. A method for reeling cocoons to make them easier to reel, by placing the cocoons as they are, or more preferably placing the cocoons in a liquid or floating in it and placing them at a low temperature, for example in an incubator, refrigerator or freezer set at a temperature lower than room temperature, more preferably below 20°C, thereby achieving at least one of the following operations for reeling or operations to make them easier to reel, for example reducing damage to cocoon proteins due to the heat of boiling cocoons, reducing denaturation of cocoon proteins, reducing damage to larvae, pupae or adults inside the cocoons, minimizing coloring due to boiling cocoons, and minimizing the generation and spread of the unique odor due to boiling cocoons, or a method for turning cocoons into fibers that can be reeled, silk floss, pongee or paper.

14. A method of combining multiple alkaline agents to produce cocoons that are easier to reel.

15. A method for reeling cocoons into thread, or a method for making cocoons into fibers that can be used as the raw material for reeling, silk floss, pongee, or paper, by combining all or part of the steps of immersing or floating the cocoons in a liquid that makes reeling easier, such as a cocoon boiling liquid, and storing them frozen, for example at a temperature below 0°C, thawing the cocoons, and immersing or floating the cocoons in a gas or liquid that is above room temperature, or above 20°C, more preferably above 50°C, and even more preferably above 70°C, thereby achieving at least one of the following: reducing damage to cocoon proteins, reducing denaturation of cocoon proteins, reducing damage to larvae, pupae, or adults inside the cocoons, and minimizing the generation and spread of a unique odor, or by converting the cocoons into fibers that can be used as the raw material for reeling, silk floss, pongee, or paper.

16. A method for reeling silk without killing the larvae, pupae or adults inside the cocoons, using a combination of claims 1 to 15 or utilizing at least one of claims 1 to 15, or a method for producing cocoons that can be reeled into silk, raw cotton, silk thread or fiber for use as the raw material for paper, or raw silk, or a method for carrying out at least one of the following: washing the larvae, pupae or adults that have been reeled without killing them with water, or observing the larvae, pupae or adults at room temperature or various other temperature conditions without washing them with water, or in the case of larvae or pupae, developing them into adults, mating the adults, observing female eggs, and causing the eggs to develop.

17. A machine automating at least one of claims 1 to 16, or a silk-removing kit, paper-making kit, or learning material using at least one of claims 1 to 16, or a cocoon, pupa, larva, adult, pigment, cocoon protein, paper, raw silk, degummed silk, or fiber thereof, or a product obtained from raw silk or degummed silk obtained using at least one of claims 1 to 16.

18. A method for educating or explaining using at least one of claims 1 to 17, or a method for realizing at least one of the following: suppressing damage to cocoon proteins, suppressing denaturation of cocoon proteins including proteins expressed by genetic modification of cocoons, suppressing damage to larvae, pupae or adults inside the cocoons, limiting the generation and spread of distinctive odors, removing thin cocoons and other cocoons that are not suitable for reeling, and reducing coloring of cocoons due to the color of pupae during boiling and reeling, and a method for reeling cocoons using the same.

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