Red yeast as a sustainable platform for bio oil and natural pigment production

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This is an unedited manuscript accepted for publication and provided as an Article in Press for early access at the author’s request. The article will undergo copyediting, typesetting, and galley proof review before final publication. Please be aware that errors may be identified during production that could affect the content. All legal disclaimers of the journal apply.

Year : 2026 | Volume : 12 | 01 | Page :
    By

    Sakshi Kumari,

  • Monalisa Ghara,

  • Madhusudan Reddy,

  • Debarati Paul,

  1. Student, Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Uttar Pradesh, India
  2. PhD scholar, Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Uttar Pradesh, India
  3. Professor and Principal, Department of Microbiology, Palamuru University, Telangana, India
  4. Professor, Amity Institute of Biotechnology (AIB), Amity University Uttar Pradesh (AUUP), Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

Oleaginous yeast represents a promising biotechnological platform for the sustainable production of bio-oil, an alternative to fossil-derived fuels. These microorganisms can accumulate lipids up to 20–70% of their dry cell weight, primarily in the form of triacylglycerols that are structurally similar to plant and animal oils. Among them, certain species exhibit distinctive red or pink pigmentation and are collectively referred to as red yeasts. These yeasts not only synthesize significant amounts of storage lipids but also produce valuable carotenoid pigments such as β-carotene, torulene, and torularhodin. The dual ability to generate bio-oil and natural pigments provides a unique advantage for developing integrated bioprocesses. Furthermore, red yeasts can efficiently utilize low-cost and renewable substrates, including agro-industrial residues and food waste, thereby reducing production costs and supporting waste valorization. Advances in metabolic engineering, fermentation optimization, and waste valorization are further expanding their potential for large-scale lipid synthesis. Consequently, red yeast provides a robust and sustainable platform for bio-oil and bio pigment production, aligning with global efforts toward renewable energy and reduced carbon emissions.

Keywords: Red yeast, lipid accumulation, natural pigment, sustainability.

How to cite this article:
Sakshi Kumari, Monalisa Ghara, Madhusudan Reddy, Debarati Paul. Red yeast as a sustainable platform for bio oil and natural pigment production. International Journal of Industrial Biotechnology and Biomaterials. 2026; 12(01):-.
How to cite this URL:
Sakshi Kumari, Monalisa Ghara, Madhusudan Reddy, Debarati Paul. Red yeast as a sustainable platform for bio oil and natural pigment production. International Journal of Industrial Biotechnology and Biomaterials. 2026; 12(01):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/ijibb/article=2026/view=236739


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Ahead of Print Subscription Review Article
Volume 12
01
Received 21/01/2026
Accepted 10/02/2026
Published 10/02/2026
Publication Time 20 Days


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