Enzymes are used in many industries. They help break down substances like starch, lipids, and proteins. In washing powders, enzymes like lipase and protease help break down greasy stains and protein residues. In food production, enzymes extract fruit juices, soften biscuits, and make fruit juices clearer. During seed germination, amylase breaks down starch into maltose to provide energy for the growing embryo. Many enzymes are obtained from microorganisms grown in fermenters under specific temperature, pH, and nutrient conditions needed for their growth and reproduction. The fungus Penicillium produces the antibiotic penicillin when cultivated in a fermenter, secreting the product after an initial growth phase.