Which of the following is true about β-ionone, non-ionic detergent used in β carotene fermentation medium?

• A. It is a precursor of β-carotene fermentation process
• B. It is regarded as "steering" factor associated with bringing about the presence and activity of the enzymes responsible for β-carotene formation
• C. It is an inducer of β carotene fermentation process
• D. None of the above