Fermentation: Humanity’s Oldest Biotechnological Tool
Iasmin Cartaxo Taveira, Karoline Maria Vieira Nogueira, Débora Lemos Gadelha de Oliveira, Roberto Nascimento Silva
Abstract
Fermentation is a process in which sugars are transformed into a new product through chemical reactions carried out by microorganisms. Since ancient times, humans have taken advantage of the natural fermentation process to develop many products, including foods, medicines, and fuels. In this article, we provide a close look at the history of fermentation, demonstrating why this natural process is humans’ most ancient biotechnological tool. This article will help you to understand the different types of fermentation and the current uses of the fermentation process.
Topics & Concepts
FermentationProcess (computing)Biochemical engineeringHumanityBiotechnologyBiologyFood scienceComputer scienceEngineeringPolitical scienceLawOperating systemDigestive system and related healthMicrobial Metabolic Engineering and BioproductionBiofuel production and bioconversion