Macroalgal biomass as a potential resource for lactic acid fermentation

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology and Industrial Microbiology
• Sustainable Chemistry
• Marine Biomass Valorization

Background:

• Lactic acid is a key platform chemical, with demand driven by polylactide bioplastic production.
• Current lactic acid production faces feedstock cost and sustainability challenges.
• Macroalgae represent a carbon-abundant, sustainable biomass resource.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the design and development of sustainable, cost-effective, algae-based lactic acid production.
• To analyze the feasibility of using macroalgae as a fermentation feedstock.
• To explore the environmental and economic aspects of macroalgal lactic acid.

Main Methods:

• Description of central carbon regulation in lactic acid bacteria.
• Analysis of seaweed-derived sugar metabolism.
• Compilation and analysis of lactic acid fermentation data from macroalgae hydrolysates.

Main Results:

• Lactic acid bacteria effectively ferment mixed sugars from macroalgae hydrolysates.
• Fermentation yields are comparable to traditional feedstocks.
• Valorization of spent macroalgal biomass is a viable strategy.

Conclusions:

• Macroalgae provide a sustainable and potentially cost-effective feedstock for lactic acid production.
• Utilizing post-extraction seaweed biomass in biorefineries enhances economic viability.
• Algae-based lactic acid production offers environmental benefits and supports the circular economy.