This document discusses fermentation media and raw materials. It explains that fermentation media must provide nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and trace elements to support microbial growth while promoting the target product. Common carbon sources discussed include molasses, malt extract, starch and dextrins. The choice of raw material depends on factors like cost, availability, ease of handling and ability to support high product yields. Microbes exhibit different growth yields depending on the carbon source and conditions.