Recent process developments in solid-state fermentation

Abstract

Solid-state fermentation has gained renewed interest and fresh attention from researchers owing to its importance in recent developments in biomass energy conservation, in solid waste treatment and in its application to produce secondary metabolites. Solid-state fermentation must be seen as a technique for producing higher yields of desired products; in addition, there are various other advantages. Solid-state fermentation processes are also of considerable promise on the pollution front. This paper reviews the recent process developments in solid-state fermentation, especially in the past decade. The importance of microorganism and water activity are dealt with, and the substrates and end-products of the process are outlined. Advances in growth parameters and kinetic studies are also discussed.