Some common antibiotics, their microbial origin, and uses are listed in the accompanying table.

The process of antibiotic production basically involves fermentation of the medium by some specific micro-organism. Hence, (i) the medium should be ideal for the microbial action and (ii) the selected strain of the micro-organism should give the maximum yield.

The fermentation process is carried out in a medium size sterilized stirred tank fermenter (Figure 10.2A). This is provided with a stirring device.

1. Medium : The fermentation medium is prepared as per the requirement.

2. Inoculum : The selected strain of the micro-organism is cultivated under aseptic conditions. This is used as the ‘seed’ or ‘inoculum’.

3. Fermentation : The medium and the inoculum are poured in the sterilized fermenter tank. The pH, temperature, etc. of the fermenting medium are regulated as per the specific requirements. The fermenting medium is constantly stirred and aerated. This increases the yield.

4. Recovery of the antibiotic : After the process is over, the fermented medium is filtered to remove the microbe. The filtrate contains the antibiotic. It is recovered using various methods, e.g. precipitation, redissolving, filtration, etc.

Table of Contents

10.0 - Introduction
10.1 Fermentation
10.2 Manufacture of Alcohol
10.3 Antibiotics
10.4 Vitamins

Chapter 11