Uses of Microorganisms for Carotenoid Production: Contribution of Modern Technologies in Food Sustainability

Carotenoids are a diverse group of lipophilic structures that play crucial roles in various biological processes. As a result of their bioactive and coloring properties, carotenoids are gaining more and more visibility in the food industry. Microscopic organisms such as fungi, bacteria, and above all microalgae have become protagonists in the natural and sustainable obtaining of these pigments, as they can be cultivated in controlled and optimized environments, allowing efficient processes in terms of non-renewable resources. Currently, biotechnological advances combined with modern genetic engineering techniques and optimization of downstream processing provide possible strategies for maximizing production and sustainably supplying industrial needs. In this scenario, this chapter aims to contribute to the enrichment of techno-scientific advancement in this important area of knowledge. Thus, this chapter brings together a comprehensive description of the production of microbial carotenoids, including aspects related to the chemical structure, biosynthesis, and bioactivity of carotenoids, main microbial sources, modern strategies to increase sustainable production, as well as downstream processing and sustainability metrics.