Fermentation is a metabolic process that produces organic acids, gases, or alcohol by consuming sugar in the absence of oxygen. It occurs in yeast, bacteria, and oxygen-starved muscle cells. There are several types of fermentation processes and methods to genetically modify microorganisms, including mutation, protoplast fusion, and inserting short DNA sequences. Recombinant DNA techniques allow transferring genetic information between organisms to give recipients new capabilities for industrial applications like producing ethanol, 1,3-propanediol, or lactic acid. Microorganisms are preserved through techniques like lyophilization and liquid nitrogen storage to maintain their desired characteristics.