Question

'Upstream' process in preparation of alcohol in biotechnology includes
(a) All process before fermentation
(b) All process during fermentation
(c) All process after fermentation
(d) Flavouring and ripening of alcohol

Answer 1

Hint: In biotechnology, fermentation is an important step for alcohol preparation where the products required for this are prepared during the pre-fermentation process.

Complete answer:
The formation of the fermentation medium, fermentation inoculum preparation, sterilization of air are included in the upstreaming process. All the processes before fermentation are included in the upstream process. It is also called the pre-fermentation stage. It includes isolation, improvement, and microorganism production. Screening methods are used to isolate microorganisms which are of two types, primary Screening, and secondary Screening.

Additional information:
- In the upstream process, the fermentation medium should contain a carbon source, an energy source, a nitrogen source and, micronutrients along with oxygen and water for the growth of microorganisms.
- Medium should be cheap and easily available, it should increase microorganisms’ growth, production, and desired product formation.
- Molasses, lignocellulose wastes, cheese, corn liquor are usually used in industrial fermentation
- To prevent contamination with undesired microorganisms, sterilization is essential. Sterilization of air is done by membrane fertilization and the medium is usually heated.
- Preparation of seed culture in the sufficient amount that is used in large fermentation vessels which helps in growing the microorganisms that are obtained from the pure stock culture. By this process, the time required for the growth of microorganisms is reduced resulting in an increase in the rate of productivity

So, the correct answer is 'All processes before fermentation’.

Note: After the upstream process, the product has to be subjected through a series of processes before it is ready for marketing as a finished product. This is done by downstream processing. It includes separation and purification. Suitable preservatives are added to the product.