Biotechnological Applications of Nonconventional Yeasts

Abstract

Yeasts not belonging to species of the Saccharomyces genus, called nonconventional yeasts, have gained prominence recently in the biotechnological scenario. For many years, they have been generally characterized as undesirable contaminants in fermentative processes. However, several studies pointed them as useful for many biotechnological applications. This chapter will cover some of these applications, highlighting the most widely employed nonconventional yeasts. The use of non-Saccharomyces strains in (I) xylose fermentation for the production of ethanol and xylitol, (II) brewing industry, (III) improvement of coffee and cocoa fermentation, and (IV) plant growth promotion will be presented.