Fermentable carbohydrates advanced

As we study the fermentation properties of an increasing range of oligosaccharides we are starting to unravel the structure-function relationships in these molecules [111]. This, coupled with advances in carbohydrate bioengineering, will allow the knowledge-based design of prebiotics with specific functional enhancements. 

Biochemical conversion processes Enz)unes and micro-organisms are frequently used as biocatalysts to convert biomass or biomass-derived compounds into desirable products. Cellulase and hemicellulase enzymes break down the carbohydrate fractions of biomass into five-and six-carbon sugars, a process known as hydrolysis. Yeast and bacteria ferment the sugars into products such as ethanol. Biotechnology advances are expected to lead to dramatic biochemical conversion improvements. 

Daniels Midland Co., with a capacity of 10-20,000 t/year (9.1-18.2 X 10 kg/year Anonymous 1993). This proprietary fermentation process is presently nonbacterial. In contrast. Sterling Chemicals, a major producer of synthetic lactic acid in the United States, had an annual capacity of 9.5-10,000 t (8.6-9.1 X 10 kg Bahner 1994). The competitive position of fermentation lactic acid over synthetic lactic acid depends upon the ability to selectively produce desired stereoisomers of lactic acid (D— or L+) instead of a racemic mixture produced by the synthetic route. Use of inexpensive carbohydrate feedstocks and advances in separation technologies keep production costs low. 

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