Any product containing sugar or other carbohydrates is a
potential raw material for ethanol production. Substrates must be
suitable for the development of microorganisms and for the generation
of the products of interest. In addition to having a composition
capable of meeting the requirements of the microorganism, the
substrate should be properly conditioned in terms of pH and temperature
and should be rendered aseptic or sterile for optimal
performance. For the production of ethanol, starchy materials, such
as corn, wheat, cassava, potatoes and other cereals and grains, are
used [3]. Materials such as sugar cane, which is prevalent in Brazil,
and wastes such as canned pineapple, whey and soybean hulls have
also been fermented using Saccharomyces cerevisiae [4,5]. Lignocellulosic
materials such as wood, leaves, sugar cane bagasse and corn
stover can also be used to produce ethanol