Question

Describe some commercial uses of microorganisms in detail.

Answer 1

Microorganisms are also used for various commercial purposes like:

(i) Preparation of cheese and curds: A bacteria called Lactobacillus is used in making curds which provides suitable acidic environment to coagulate the casein (milk protein) forming curds. Apart from this, Streptococcus along with Lactobacillus is used in the production of cheese and paneer.
(ii) Preparation of alcoholic beverages: Alcoholic beverages are produced by a microbial action called fermentation which involves microscopic fungus called yeast.
(iii) Making bread: Yeasts are used in the preparation of breads, to give the right texture, which makes the bread porous and spongy.
(iv) Making toothpaste: Shells of diatoms and xanthum gum from Xanthomonas campestris are used in making toothpaste.
(v) Making vinegar, coffee and tobacco: Certain bacteria are used in making vinegar, coffee and tobacco.