Before knowing the concept of Industrial Microbiology let's first understand the concept of microbiology.
Microbiology is the study of all living organisms that are too small and impossible to see with naked eyes. This includes bacteria, archaea, viruses, fungi, prions, protozoa, and algae, and they are collectively known as microbes. These microbes play key roles in nutrient cycling, biodegradation/biodeterioration, climate change, food spoilage, the cause and control of disease, and biotechnology.
Now the question arises what is industrial microbiology?
Industrial microbiology is a branch of applied microbiology. In this microorganisms are used to manufacture food or industrial products in large quantities. Numerous microorganisms are used within industrial microbiology; these include naturally occurring organisms, laboratory-selected mutants, or even genetically modified organisms. Microorganisms are used at an industrial level in today's society.
It is also defined as the study of large-scale and profit-motivated production of microorganisms or their products for direct use or as inputs in the manufacture of other goods.
Applications Of Industrial MicrobiologyIndustrial Microbiology is used in the production of new drugs synthesized in a specific organism for medical purposes in the health industry. Antibiotics are necessary to produce for the treatment of many bacterial infections. Fermentation is a process that is used to produce some naturally occurring antibiotics and precursors.
Yeasts are a common microbe utilized in the manufacturing of drinks such as beer, brandy, rum, wine, and whiskey. Yeasts are eukaryotic, single-celled microorganisms that belong to the Kingdom Fungi. The yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, often known as Brewer's yeast, is used in various industrial processes. Yeasts are used to make ethanol by fermenting fruit juices and malted grains.
Microbes are also employed in the manufacture of some organic acids in the industrial sector. Citric acid was the first organic acid found by microbial fermentation of lemons, which are citrus fruits. Glucose may also be used to make organic acids. Microbes including Aspergillus niger, Acetobacter acute, and Lactobacillus are employed in the commercial manufacture of organic acids.