Solid-State Fermentation: Applications and Future Perspectives for Biostimulant and Biopesticides Production

Abstract

With the expansion of the green products market and the worldwide policies and strategies directed toward a green revolution and ecological transition, the demand for innovative approaches is always on the rise. Among the sustainable agricultural approaches, microbial-based products are emerging over time as effective and feasible alternatives to agrochemicals. However, the production, formulation, and commercialization of some products can be challenging. Among the main challenges are the industrial production processes that ensure the quality of the product and its cost on the market. In the context of a circular economy, solid-state fermentation (SSF) might represent a smart approach to obtaining valuable products from waste and by-products. SSF enables the growth of various microorganisms on solid surfaces in the absence or near absence of free-flowing water. It is a valuable and practical method and is used in the food, pharmaceutical, energy, and chemical industries. Nevertheless, the application of this technology in the production of formulations useful in agriculture is still limited. This review summarizes the literature dealing with SSF agricultural applications and the future perspective of its use in sustainable agriculture. The survey showed good potential for SSF to produce biostimulants and biopesticides useful in agriculture.

Agricultural Bioinputs Obtained by Solid-State Fermentation: From Production in Biorefineries to Sustainable Agriculture

“…With the aim of outlining lower-emission bioprocesses, combined with the sustainable and eco-friendlier nature of bioinputs compared to synthetic agrochemicals, the current focus of several studies is to realize the production of different plant growth promoters by utilizing renewable and low-cost feedstock in fermentation processes [16]. In this sense, solid-state fermentation (SSF) stands out for its versatility in terms of the use of raw materials.…”

Citric Acid: Properties, Microbial Production, and Applications in Industries

“…The second type of culture can take place in packed-bed column bioreactors. The third type is stirred drum bioreactors, which are used in SSFs requiring slow, continuous mixing and no forced aeration ( Figure 8 ) [ 87 , 88 ].…”

Breaking New Ground: Exploring the Promising Role of Solid-State Fermentation in Harnessing Natural Biostimulants for Sustainable Agriculture

“…NBs obtained by SSF from organic waste are gaining interest because of their numerous advantages over conventionally synthesized biostimulants [65]. This article reviews and compares the advantages of NBs in terms of effectiveness, safety, sustainability, and environmental benefits.…”

“…Scalability of production: The large-scale production of NBs by SSF can be challenging because of the need to maintain optimal fermentation conditions and ensure the quality of the final product. Scalability of production requires optimization of fermentation parameters, selection of suitable equipment, and design of efficient processes that meet quality standards and market demands [65].…”