METHOD FOR PRODUCING RED PIGMENT FROM MONASCUS SPECIES

摘要

PURPOSE: A red pigment from monascus with improved antibacterial activity to Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi and improved light stability, is provided by using amino acids as a pigment precursor in monascus cultivation. The red pigment produced by the method has wide application including food and cosmetic fields. CONSTITUTION: The method for producing a red pigment from monascus comprises the steps of adding amino acids to a culture of monascus species, and obtaining a red pigment therefrom. The red pigment is represented by formula I, wherein R1 is C5H11 or C7H15, and R2 is L- or D- amino acid group.