Industrial Fermentation
Biology: Edexcel IGCSE, topic 6.1.7
Industrial Fermentation
Many microorganisms are cultured on an industrial scale in large fermenters to produce useful products. The conditions in the fermenters need to be kept just right for the microorganisms to grow and respire.
Aseptic conditions
- The growth of other microorganisms would create competition for the desired microorganisms.
- Dangerous microorganisms could also grow very easily in these conditions.
Optimum temperature
- Depending on the microorganism, the fermenter may have to be heated, or cooled using a 'cooling jacket' of cold water.
Plenty of nutrients
Optimum pH
Oxygenated
Agitated
- Stirring paddles keep the contents of the fermenters moving to mix in oxygen and nutrients.
Test yourself on Industrial Fermentation
Which of these is not an important condition to maintain in industrial fermenters?