Production of Glutamic Acid (Amino Acid)

Microorganism Used

• Corynebacterium glutamicum

Fermentation Process

1. Fermenter Type: Stirred-tank bioreactor

2. Fermentation Method: Aerobic batch fermentation

3. Medium Composition: 

   • Carbon source: Glucose, sucrose

   • Nitrogen source: Ammonium salts, urea

   • Biotin (growth factor) should be limited for better glutamate secretion

4. Conditions: 

   • pH: 6.5-7.5

   • Temperature: 30-37°C

   • Aeration: High oxygen demand

   • Duration: 2-3 days

5. Downstream Processing: 

   • Cell removal by filtration

   • Precipitation using acid or ion-exchange chromatography

   • Crystallization of monosodium glutamate (MSG)

Applications

• Flavor enhancer (MSG) in food

• Used in pharmaceuticals as an essential amino acid supplement