Fed-batch bioreactor production of mannosylerythritol lipids secreted by Pseudozyma aphidis

Two strains of Pseudozyma aphidis, DSM 70725 and DSM 14930, were used for the bioreactor production of mannosylerythritol lipids (MELs). Foam formation interfered substantially with the cultivation process. Soybean oil was simultaneously employed as both carbon source and anti-foam agent. Primary MEL formation occurred after nitrate limitation. After a first short time-period of nitrate limitation and further nitrate addition, MELs were secreted in spite of nitrate excess. The sedimentation of MEL-enriched beads indicated enhanced product formation. Maximum yield, productivity and yield coefficient of 165 g l⁻¹, 13.9 g l⁻¹ day⁻¹ and 0.92 g g⁻¹ were achieved using strain DSM 14930 with additional substrate-feeding (glucose, sodium nitrate, yeast extract) and a foam-controlled soybean oil supply.