Book excerpt: Microbial Essentialism: An Industrial Prospective refers to properties specifically possessed by microbes such as secretion of metabolites which make them unique and can be employed by industries. These microorganisms can be commercially exploited for beneficial purposes such as the production of whole microbial cells or their products for direct use or as starting raw material in the manufacture of other commercial products which can contribute to large-scale and profit-oriented businesses. Microbial Essentialism: An Industrial Prospective reviews the newest techniques, approaches, and options in the use of microorganisms for the manufacture of industrially important products such as pharmaceuticals, industrial enzymes, chemicals, proteins, foods and beverages, and fuels. It covers fundamental principles of established and innovative industrial microbiology and biotechnology processes and products. It also discusses industrial microorganisms and the technology required for large-scale cultivation and isolation of fermentation products. Covers key aspects of microbial physiology, exploring the versatility of microorganisms and their diverse metabolic activities and products Provides methods and various traditional and novel applications of microorganisms to industrial processes Contributed by a multidisciplinary group of experts who offer not only a thorough evaluation of the primary literature, but also invaluable first-hand experience in industrial microbiology and biotechnology