Lactic Acid Production: A Context For Sustainability And Trends

Background: Lactic acid is a significant industrial bioproduct with diverse applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. It is also a key raw material for biodegradable plastics such as polylactic acid (PLA), offering a sustainable alternative to petrochemical products. This study explores the production of lactic acid through fermentation, with a specific focus on batch processes, which provide flexibility and enhanced quality control compared to continuous and semi-continuous methods. Materials and Methods: The paper examines various fermentation methodologies, comparing batch, continuous, and semi-continuous variants. Batch fermentation is highlighted for its robustness and suitability in managing by-product formation, such as acetic acid, formic acid, and succinic acid, which require additional purification steps. The study also discusses metabolic engineering as a strategy to enhance production efficiency and reduce unwanted by-products. Results: The findings emphasize that batch fermentation remains a key industrial technology, providing advantages in quality control and process adaptability. The role of lactic acid in supporting a circular economy is underscored, particularly through the use of renewable raw materials. Applications of lactic acid in producing biodegradable plastics, such as PLA, align with global sustainability goals and demonstrate its potential for replacing petrochemical-based products. Conclusion: Batch fermentation is reaffirmed as a crucial industrial process for producing lactic acid. Its capacity for flexibility, quality control, and alignment with sustainability principles highlights its relevance in industrial applications. The integration of metabolic engineering further enhances its potential, solidifying its role in advancing sustainable industrial practices.