Microbial Lipids: Processes, Products, and Innovations
brings together experienced authors on microbial lipids bioproduction, introducing the reader to key aspects from lipid chemistry and biochemistry to industrial production by fungi, yeast and microalgae. Intended for professionals in industry-oriented research and development, this volume also describes lipid production using synthetic media and agroindustry residues and discusses the potential of integration of microbial lipids in biorefineries, towards a circular economy. With a market of US$ 7 billion, oils and fats are one of the most important classes of natural products, with applications in food, feed, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, biofuel, and oleo chemistry.
Primary sources include plants, animals and fish. However, specialty lipids such as oils rich in omega-3 and -6 fatty acids have limited sources and productivity. Microbial oils are gaining space in the global market as green – and even vegan – alternatives to traditional sources. Microorganisms also have high productivity and metabolic plasticity which makes it promising sources of new products.