The macromolecular composition of Geotrichum candidum grown on whiskey distillery spent wash

Summary Biomass harvested from batch and single-stage continuous cultures of the fungus Geotrichum candidum, growing on the spent wash from an Irish malt whiskey distillery, was analysed for macromolecular components. The true protein content was on average more than 47% (w/w), while crude protein levels of as much as 61% were found. The protein was not deficient in any amino acid when compared to the FAO standard. The effects of varying growth temperature and dilution rate on the composition of the organism are discussed, and also the problem of its accumulation of copper from the medium.