Sequential statistical optimization of red pigment production by Monascus purpureus (MTCC 369) using potato powder

The present work attempts to utilize the potato powder as a low cost carbon source and statistically evaluate the medium composition for red pigment production by Monascus purpureus. Plackett–Burman (PB) design was successfully used to screen the significant medium variables and potato powder was found more significant than other components. Central composite design (CCD) of response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the four significant medium components (Potato powder, K2HPO4, ZnSO4·7H2O and MSG) selected from PB experiment. ANOVA results showed that model was significant and R2 value of 0.833 demonstrated that experimental results were fitted well with predicted values. Maximum pigment absorbance of 7.18 ODU/ml was predicted at optimal level of potato powder 2.50% (w/v), K2HPO4 0.480% (w/v), ZnSO4·7H2O 0.0013% (w/v) and MSG 0.60% (w/v). Model accuracy was found to be 96.65% from the data obtained from validation experiment.

► We investigated the utilization of potato flour for pigment production.
► Significant medium components were screened by PBD.
► RSM was employed to model and optimize the pigment production.
► Employing RSM significantly increases the pigment production.