Optimization of beta-carotene production by a newly isolated Serratia marcescens strain

beta-carotene is a commonly used food colorant. In this work, a novel beta-carotene producing strain, Serratia marcescens RB3, was isolated and identified by physiological and biochemical tests, as well as 16S rDNA sequence analysis. The production of beta-carotene by S. marcescens RB3 was identified through HPLC analysis. The cultivation conditions for beta-carotene production by S. marcescens RB3 were optimized as 2.0 percent lactose, 2.0 percent peptone, 0.3 percent beef extract, 1.0 percent NaCl supplemented with 0.05 percent Fe2+, pH 6.0 and 30ºC. Under the optimal conditions, the yield of beta-carotene achieved 2.45 ug/mL.