B3/ Further additional science

Biotechnology

What is meant by biotechnology? (2)

Biotechnology is using living organisms to produce useful products and provide people with services. Fermentation is used in the process of production.

Examples of products made:
1) Milk fermented to produce yoghurt
2) Production of mycoprotein

Mycoprotein
Made as a meat substitute for vegetarian meals.
Fusarium is grown in a fermenter using glucose syrup as a food source.
Fungus respires areobically, so has to be supplied with oxygen.
Health benefits include: More protein and fibre than meat, and less fat.

Milk
Process of milk production:
1) Equipment is sterilized to kill any unwanted bacteria.
2)The milk is pasteurized and then cooled.
3) Lactobacillus bacteria is added and the mixture is incubated (heated to 40 degrees)
in a fermenter
4) Bacteria ferment the lactose sugar in the milk to form lactic acid. Lactic acid causes the milk to clot and solidify into yoghurt.
5) Flavours are added to the yoghurt, such as fruits and colours before it is packaged.