Torulopsis utilis

Torulopsis utilis, also known as Candida utilis, is a species of yeast that is used in various industrial applications. It is a member of the Candida genus, which includes several other species of yeast that are important in industry and medicine.

Taxonomy

Torulopsis utilis was first described in 1912 by the German mycologist Otto Reinking. The species was later reclassified as Candida utilis based on genetic and phenotypic similarities to other species in the Candida genus. However, some researchers continue to use the original name, and both names are currently accepted.

Characteristics

Torulopsis utilis is a unicellular organism that reproduces by budding. It is aerobic, meaning it requires oxygen to grow, and it can ferment sugars to produce ethanol and carbon dioxide. The yeast is also capable of growing on a variety of substrates, including simple sugars, polysaccharides, and hydrocarbons.

Industrial uses

Torulopsis utilis is used in a variety of industrial applications. It is used in the production of single-cell protein (SCP), a high-protein food and feed supplement. The yeast is also used in the production of ethanol fuel, as it can ferment a wide range of sugars and other carbohydrates. In addition, Torulopsis utilis is used in the production of citric acid, a common food and beverage additive.

Health implications

While Torulopsis utilis is generally considered safe for human consumption, it can cause infection in immunocompromised individuals. However, such infections are rare and usually occur in hospital settings.

See also

• Yeast
• Candida (genus)
• Single-cell protein
• Ethanol fuel
• Citric acid