Batch production of L(+) lactic acid from whey by Lactobacillus casei (NRRL B-441)

Abstract

The effects of temperature, pH, and medium composition on lactic acid production by Lactobacillus casei were investigated. The highest lactic acid productivity values were obtained at 37 °C and pH 5.5. The productivity was 1.87 g dm-3 h-1 at 37 °C in shake flasks. In the fermenter, a productivity of 3.97 g dm-3 h-1 was obtained at pH 5.5. The most appropriate yeast extract concentration was 5.0 g dm-3. Whey yielded a higher productivity value than the analytical lactose and glucose. Initial whey lactose concentration did not affect lactic acid productivity. MnSO4·H2O was necessary for lactic acid production by L casei from whey. Product yields were approximately 0.93 g lactic acid g lactose-1.