Bioprocess operations — Which of the following does NOT fall under upstream processing in biotechnology manufacturing?

Introduction:
Upstream processing encompasses all steps that prepare for and generate biological product in the bioreactor, from raw materials and seed to biomass and metabolites. Downstream processing covers recovery, purification, and waste management. This question tests classification of common unit operations.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Classical division: upstream vs downstream.
• Typical pharmaceutical or industrial biotech facility.
• Standard GMP-aware workflow.

Concept / Approach:
Upstream includes raw material receiving and storage, media preparation, sterilization, inoculum/seed train, and reactor operation. Effluent treatment is a facility utility and environmental control activity aligned with downstream or plant services rather than upstream production of biomass/product.

Step-by-Step Solution:
List upstream: raw material storage, media prep, sterilization, inoculum development, bioreactor operation.Identify non-upstream: effluent treatment handles waste streams after processing.Select the option corresponding to waste handling: effluent treatment.

Verification / Alternative check:
Process flow diagrams clearly place neutralization tanks, equalization basins, and wastewater treatment in plant utilities and environmental management, not in upstream unit operations.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Media preparation and inoculum development are core upstream steps.
• Raw material storage supports upstream by ensuring availability and quality.
• Bioreactor operation is the heart of upstream processing.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming anything before purification is upstream; forgetting that plant utilities and environmental controls span the whole site and are not unique to upstream.

Final Answer:
Effluent treatment (wastewater and waste handling)