Oils from crops such as canola or soybean can be modified to produce lubricants that resist extreme temperatures or pressures. In the food industry, plant cells grown in fermenters can produce flavors such as vanilla. And to confirm food safety, researchers are developing tests to detect foodborne bacteria and toxins using several biotechnologies. In this test, luciferin and luciferase are added to a food sample, and a machine measures the amount of light given off. Environmental Cleanup Microbes break down many chemicals in the environment.
Bioremediation uses organisms to remove toxins.
Other microbes are used toe clean up contaminants such as oil and fuel spills from gas stations, military bases, electric utilities and industrial complexes, and heavy metals in water from mines. Sewage treatment plants harness these microbial recyclers to clean up waste water before it returns to streams, lakes and groundwater. Microbes can also be used to reduce the production of toxins and to offer alternatives to industrial chemicals. Biopulping is an experimental way of using a fungus to pretreat wood chips before making paper pulp. Biopulping reduces both energy use and water-polluting byproducts.