Question

In penicillin production process, batch fermentation is used.

(a) True

(b) False

The question was posed to me in my homework.

This key question is from Comparison of Batch and Continuous Culture in Industrial Processes in section Microbial Growth Kinetics of Bioprocess Engineering

Answer 1

Correct choice is (a) True

The explanation: The antibiotic penicillin can be mass produced via the use of deep-tank batch fermentation. Penicillium mold is grown in the deep-tank batch fermenters following the addition of sugars and other key ingredients. The production process typically lasts 6 – 8 days, with the fermenter drained at the end of the fermentation cycle. Penicillin is separated from the solution and purified via downstream processing to improve its antibiotic potential.