Eco-Friendly Production of Food-Grade Fungal Pigments By Submerged Fermentation: A Sustainable Alternative to Synthetic Dye

In recent years, there has been a growing global emphasis on sustainable scientific research that addresses the needs of both present and future generations. This study adopts a holistic approach, encompassing environmental, social, and economic dimensions, to support sustainable development goals through the responsible use of natural resources and improved consumption practices by using microbial-derived natural dyes.Filamentous fungi were isolated from Saudi Arabian soils and screened for their ability to produce pigments. Based on PCR purification and sequencing, three efficient pigment producing genera were identified: Trichoderma harzianum (385 bp), Achaetomium spp. (PV690111), and Aspergillus flavus (351 bp), each strain produced a unique pigment: yellow, red and orange, respectively. To enhance pigment yield, production conditions were optimized by modifying key physical and chemical factors.It showed that pigment yield was highly influenced by temperature and pH, with media composition playing a crucial role in regulating extracellular pigment production in submerged cultures. Chromatographic analysis identified ethyl acetate (EthAc) as the most efficient solvent for extracting fungal pigments. The pigments’ coloration was primarily attributed to Diphenylmethane chromophores, which were consistently present across all fungal strains. Additionally, the extracts contained various bioactive compounds, including amino acids, fatty acids, drug-like substances, and potentially toxic elements.The results obtained underscore the promise of microbial pigments as sustainable and innovative alternatives for various industrial uses, especially in fields focused on human health and environmental safety. Harnessing fungal sources for pigment production presents an eco-friendly approach that supports environmental preservation, ensures consumer well-being, and promotes economic viability.