OPTIMIZATION OF APPLE-POMACE BASED MEDIUM FOR PIGMENT PRODUCTION BY MICROCOCCUS FLAVUS

Abstract

The present studies were undertaken by using apple pomace wastes for pigment production using microbial technology. The substrate used was by-product of apple juice process industry comprising of peel, seed and remaining solid parts. Apple pomace is prepared by mechanically dehydrating apple waste at 60+1ºC till moisture content reached 4+1ºC in 3-4h. It is then grind to fine powder. Media originally proposed by Devender Attri and V.K Joshi was modified by incorporating apple pomace. The experiment was further carried out to find various optimized parameters for maximum biomass and pigment production by Micrococcus flavus such as pH and temperature. Effect of other factors includes carbon and nitrogen source. Pigment produced was then detected through Paper Chromatography and it was found to be β-carotene when compared with standard results.