The use of microorganisms in L-ascorbic acid production

L-Ascorbic acid has been industrially produced for around 70 years. Over the past two decades, several innovative bioconversion systems have been proposed in order to simplify the long time market-dominating Reichstein method, a largely chemical synthesis by which still a considerable part Of L-ascorbic acid is produced. Here, we describe the current state of biotechnological alternatives using bacteria, yeasts, and microalgae. We also discuss the potential for direct production Of L-ascorbic acid exploiting novel bacterial pathways. The advantages of these novel approaches competing with current chemical and biotechnological processes are outlined. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.