Production and Entrepreneurship Plan for Red Pigment from Monascus sp.

Abstract

AbstractThe fungus Monascus purpureus belongs to the phylum Eucomycota. These fungi are recognized for their fermented products and provide a variety of polyketide-type secondary metabolites. The yeast is used to prepare cholesterol-lowering statins in the commercial world. Statins, which are prescription drugs used to treat high cholesterol, have the same active ingredients as red yeast. During growth, Monascus spp. break down the starch substrate into a range of metabolites, including secondary metabolites such as colours. Monascus pigment can be produced through solid state or submerged fermentation and then recovered, dried, and used. Thus, this chapter illustrates the entrepreneurship of Monascus pigment is characterized by the ability and willingness to start, organize, and run a Monascus pigment business, including all of its associated risks, in order to profit.KeywordsMonascus pigmentRed yeastSolid state fermentationSubmerged fermentation