Step 1: Understanding the Concept
Conventional adipic acid synthesis uses benzene, a carcinogenic feedstock. Draths and Frost developed an alternative route.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation
In their method, glucose, a renewable carbohydrate, is converted by a genetically modified microbe (E. coli) to cis,cis-muconic acid. Catalytic hydrogenation of this acid then gives adipic acid.
So glucose is the starting compound.
Final Answer:
Glucose is used in the green synthesis of adipic acid, option (B).
\[ \boxed{\text{Glucose (B)}} \]