Question

Why is downstream processing required?

• A. The output from fermenter is a broth and not the final product
• B. Downstream processing reduces the percentage purity of the chemical
• C. During downstream processing, dead microbes get processed to release the chemical
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is A The output from fermenter is a broth and not the final product

The direct output of a fermentor is liquid broth. This broth, on its own, is of no use, as the chemical that we need, is mixed in it along with other substances and impurities. Downstream processing steps, such as distillation, help in the isolation of the desired chemical from a broth, of many unwanted substances.