The goal is to get the bacteria to provide as much metabolite as possible in a short period of time. If possible it might be best to isolate a mutant that over-expresses the compound of interest. An important factor to consider in production is whether the compound is a primary or secondary metabolite. Primary metabolites are synthesized in log phase growth whereas secondary metabolites are synthesized in late log and stationary phases. Other factors to consider include how to sterilize 5000 L of media, and how to avoid contamination of the growing culture. An additional concern if the bacterium is Gram-negative, is to ensure that the final product is not contaminated with endotoxin.