Impact of Microbes

Question 1

Health

Answer 1

• Normal flora produce vitamins in gut
• Normal flora can also cause disease if conditions change in the body (can become opportunistic pathogens)
• Help improve health - Antibiotics, Vaccinations

Question 2

Food Industry

Answer 2

• Bacteria: cheeses, yogurt
• Fungi; yeasts (fermentation) in sourdough bread, wine, beer
• Can lead to food decomposing and spoilage (Storage / use by dates)

Question 3

Drug Industry

Answer 3

• Pharmaceuticals - antibiotics, probiotics
• Enzymes - proteases in laundry detergents
• Genetic Engineering: human insulin, vaccines

Question 4

Sewerage Treatment

Answer 4

• Helps to treat and purify wastewater and make it less harmful to the environment

Question 5

Compost Breakdown

Answer 5

• In the process of composting, microorganisms break down organic matter in smaller particles and produce carbon dioxide, water and heat.