Question

Which microorganism is primarily used in the commercial production of Citric Acid?

• A. Saccharomyces cerevisiae
• B. Aspergillus niger
• C. Lactobacillus acidophilus
• D. Penicillium chrysogenum

Hint:

Citric acid production → Aspergillus niger → High yield fermentation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Industrial microbiology involves the large-scale cultivation of microbes to produce useful products like organic acids, vitamins, and antibiotics.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Aspergillus niger is a filamentous fungus (mold) that is the dominant organism used for industrial citric acid production.
It is highly efficient at converting sugars (like molasses or sucrose) into citric acid through a specialized fermentation process.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae is used for ethanol and CO$_2$ (bread/beer).
Lactobacillus acidophilus produces lactic acid.
Penicillium chrysogenum is the main source of the antibiotic penicillin.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Aspergillus niger is the primary organism used for Citric Acid production.