How did the production of penicillin change during World War 2?

During World War II, the production of penicillin saw a dramatic increase due to the urgent need for effective antibiotics to treat infections among soldiers. Initially, penicillin was produced in small quantities through a labor-intensive fermentation process, but advancements in biotechnology and large-scale fermentation techniques allowed for mass production. The U.S. government collaborated with pharmaceutical companies to streamline production and improve yields, leading to a significant supply that saved countless lives. By the end of the war, penicillin had become widely available, transforming medical treatment and setting the stage for the antibiotic era.