Optimization of apple pomace based medium and fermentation conditions for pigment production by <i style="">Micrococcus </i>species

Abstract

The effect of carbon and nitrogen sources on yield and carotenoids production by <i style="">Micrococcus </i>sp. was studied in apple pomace (AP) based medium. AP (20 g/l) have shown maximum yield of biomass and carotenoids in the basic medium. The addition of fructose (0.2%) to AP-based medium gave the maximum yield of biomass (4.13g/l) and carotenoids (9.97 mg/100g). Among the different nitrogen sources tried, sodium nitrate (0.2%) gave the highest production of biomass (4.63 g/l) and carotenoids (9.87 mg/100g). Beyond 0.2% concentration, there was decrease in biomass and carotenoids. Optimum parameters standardized were: temp, 35 ^oC; incubation period, 96 h; and pH 6.0.