Bioreactors

Bioreactors and enzymes

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The above diagram provides a general depiction of bioreactors. There are different applications, which changes the set up. Today, I’ll explore utilization of enzymes in several industries, and less on the functionality of each part in the system. In previous articles, I gave several examples of enzymatic bioreactors in food manufacturing. This includes mycoproteins and precision fermentation.

Precision fermentation

The fermentation revolution, and its applications

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Fermentation is a technique utilized for thousands of years, using natural microbes like yeast. Think back to ancient times, the method can be traced to Egyptian civilization. Check out my previous blog to learn more about the history. On the other hand, a new technology called precision fermentation has revolutionized things; more about this in a bit. The use of genetically modified microorganisms, I know what you’re thinking, especially if you’re against GMO products. But, think of all the applications that are in the works, while others are in the market. One application is cultivated, or cell-based meat. Other companies, like Impossible Foods, and cheese companies also applied this technology. The process is similar to production of mycoproteins, as I described here. There are several challenges with this type of technology. This includes not meeting sustainability, regulatory, ethical, environmental, economical, and safety guidelines.