The effect of CO2 concentration on yeast fermentation: rates, metabolic products, and yeast stress indicators

Abstract This research aimed to assess how the partial removal of carbon dioxide affects fermentations to provide a better understanding of how the manipulation of carbon dioxide concentration can be used to optimize industrial fermentations. To achieve this, fermentation kinetics, fermentation metabolic products, and yeast stress indicators were analyzed throughout ongoing brewing fermentations conducted under partial vacuum with atmospheric pressure controls. The partial vacuum reduced the solubility of carbon dioxide in the media and decreased the time necessary to reach carbon dioxide saturation. The effect was an increased rate of fermentation, and significantly more viable cells produced under vacuum pressure compared to controls. Ethanol, glycerol, and volatile organic compound concentrations were all significantly increased under partial vacuum, while indicators of yeast stress (trehalose) were reduced. Additionally, as the number of yeast cells was higher under partial vacuum, less sugar was consumed per volume of yeast cell. This study measured fermentation kinetics, metabolic products, and yeast health to holistically assess the effect of partial vacuum during a batch fermentation and found significant differences in each that can be individually exploited by researchers and industry. Summary An exploration of batch yeast fermentation in a low-pressure environment, with a focus on the health and productivity of the yeast cells. Graphical Abstract Graphical Abstract The methods by which CO2 concentration affects yeast fermentation were assessed using low pressure head-space while monitoring: kinetics, metabolic products, and yeast stress indicators. The apparatus shown was used to manipulate CO2 concentration and to remove samples while under partial vacuum.