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While the flowers of Matricaria recutita L., German chamomile, are widely used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes, little is known about its roots, which are used in complementary medicine for the preparation of aqueous fermented extracts for the treatment of cramps and anxiety. To broaden the understanding of the active principles involved, a model fermentation approach was developed and fermentates were compared to commercially manufactured tinctures. Coumarins and hydroxycinnamates were among the major secondary metabolites characterized using HPLC-MS n . After six months of fermentation and storage, low-molecular organic acids were detected by GC-MS. Fermentation contributed to the stabilization of antioxidant and radical scavenging activities, which were in a range of about 8-10 mg gallic acid equivalents/g dry weight and 20-24 mg trolox equivalents/g dry weight, determined by Folin-Ciocalteu and DPPH assays, respectively. In addition, antibacterial activities of the extracts against Gram-positive and -negative bacteria increased during the first week of fermentation. Fermentates were neither cytotoxic nor pro- or anti-inflammatory. Thus, fermentation of chamomile roots is a suitable method for the safe production of biofunctional aqueous chamomile root extracts that remain stable without the addition of synthetic preservatives., (© 2024 Wiley-VHCA AG, Zurich, Switzerland.)

This study was the first to evaluate changes in isoflavone, amino acid, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), antioxidant effect, and digestive enzyme inhibition during fermentation of soy-milk to soy-yogurt with L. brevis and L. plantarum. Total average isoflavones were reduced (1318.2 → 971.1 μg/g) with an increase of aglycones (60.2 → 804.9 μg/g, genistein > daidzein > glycitein) in soy powder yogurts (SPYs). Amino acids increased considerably, as did ornithine (average 4.1 → 551.0 mg/g), and CLA showed high variations from not-detected (ND) to 0.5, 0.9 mg/g (cis-9, trans-11) and ND to 0.3, 0.2 mg/g (trans-10, cis-12). Digestive enzyme inhibitions (α-glucosidase, α-amylase, and pancreatic lipase) displayed high activities (average 50.6 → 67.2, 5.2 → 46.4, 10.6 → 51.4%). Moreover, the antioxidant abilities against radicals were elevated as follows: ABTS > DPPH > hydroxyl (average 63.5 → 86.5, 50.2 → 70.3, 39.3 → 55.2%). Specifically, SPY using mixed strains exhibited the greatest enzymatic inhibition and antioxidant capacities., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The ability of Patagonian L. plantarum and O. oeni strains to change the volatile profile of a sterile Pinot noir wine was studied through fermentation assays, at laboratory scale. Two strains of each LAB species were selected based on data regarding to their ability to survive in wine and to consume l-malic acid. Both O. oeni strains but only one L. plantarum (UNQLp 11) strain were able to remain viable, consuming l-malic acid through the fermentation assay with a concomitant increase of l-lactic acid. The volatile profile of Pinot noir wine, before and after LAB inoculation, was measured by using HS-SPME gas chromatography technique. This analysis showed that alcohols were the main volatile compounds after alcoholic fermentation and that after fermentation with the selected LAB strains, a decrease in the volatile alcohols concentration and an increase in the volatile esters concentration could be observed. The O. oeni UNQOe 73.2 strain produced the most notable change in the volatile profile, with the production of some important odorant esters at higher concentration, compared to O. oeni UNQOe 31b strain. Although, L. plantarum UNQLp 11 strain showed a better performance in the consumption of l-malic acid, this strain had a low capacity to modify the volatile compounds profile after incubation in red wine. The results found in the present work showed that different strains selected as potential malolactic starters could have different behavior when are incubated in real wine. Although L. plantarum UNQLp 11 strain showed a good consumption of l-malic acid, the O. oeni UNQOe 73.2 strain exhibited superior capacity to improve the flavor of wine due to its esterase activity that produce an increase of fruity and creamy odorants., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

In Tibet, it is common practice to make and relocate total mixed ration (TMR) silages before feeding due to the uneven distribution of forages temporally and spatially. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum (L), molasses (M) or ethanol (E) on the fermentation quality and aerobic stability of local adaptive TMR silage. After 45 days of ensiling, pH and ammonia nitrogen in inoculated TMR silages were significantly lower than control. During the first 6 days of the aerobic exposure test, a small fluctuation in lactic acid concentration for all TMR silages was observed, and then silages with ethanol continued this trend, while lactic acid in silage without ethanol sharply decreased until the end of the aerobic exposure period. Meanwhile, pH gradually increased along the aerobic exposure; silages treated with ethanol showed lower pH after 9 days of aerobic exposure. The population of yeast gradually increased during 6 days of aerobic exposure, after that an accelerated rise was observed in TMR silages without ethanol. The combinational beneficial effect of L. plantarum and ethanol was found in combined addition of ethanol and Lactobacillus plantarum silages (EL), indicated by intermediate fermentation quality and higher aerobic stability., (© 2015 Japanese Society of Animal Science.)

The performance of two potential probiotic Lactobacillus strains from olive microbiota, namely L. pentosus B281 and L. plantarum B282 was assessed as starter cultures in Spanish-style fermentation of heat shocked green olives cv. Halkidiki. Two different initial salt levels were studied, 10% (w/v) and 8% (w/v) NaCl, and the brines were inoculated with (a) L. pentosus B281, (b) L. plantarum B282, and (c) a mixture of both strains. A spontaneous fermentation was also taken into account as control treatment. Prior to brining, olives were heat shocked at 80 °C for 10 min to reduce the level of the indigenous microbiota on olive drupes and facilitate the dominance of the inoculated cultures. Microbiological, physicochemical and sensory analyses were conducted throughout fermentation. The composition of LAB population and the evolution of added inocula were assessed by Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE). The final population of LAB was maintained above 6 log cycles in olive flesh. Both L. pentosus B281 and L. plantarum B282 were able to dominate over indigenous LAB, albeit strain B281 exhibited higher recovery percentages (100 or 94.7% for B281 and 58.8% or 55.0% for B282 in 10% or 8% NaCl, respectively). L. pentosus B281 also dominated over L. plantarum B282, when the two strains were co-inoculated in olive fermentations. The sensory assessment showed higher preference for inoculated fermentations of L. pentosus and L. plantarum separately in 8% NaCl, followed by the L. plantarum in 10% NaCl. The present study showed that probiotic strains L. pentosus B281 and L. plantarum B282, may offer a great potential for use as functional starter cultures in olive fermentation and deliver a promising probiotic food to the consumer., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

This study investigated the impact of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum PC-004 (PL) and Kazachstania bulderi PY-1 (PY), selected from home-made Paocai, on the physicochemical properties and volatile flavor compounds of fermented Pleurotus eryngii. P. eryngii, fermented by PY, was maintained at about pH 5 throughout fermentation, while co-fermentation exhibited a higher acid production rate and lower post-acidification value compared to mono-fermentation by PL. The viable cell counts of PY exhibited no difference between the mono- and co-fermentation, while PL significantly decreased in the co-fermentation after 168 h. Compared to mono-fermented P. eryngii, co-fermentation had lower levels of certain biogenic amines. Co-fermented P. eryngii had a higher value of nitrite in the early fermentation stage, but this decreased during mono-fermentations. Additionally, among the three different groups, PY fermentation had more esters, PL fermentation had more ketones and aldehydes, and co-fermentation had more abundance and diverse volatile flavor compounds than mono-fermentations. Our results suggest that co-fermentation with K. bulderi and L. plantarum is suitable for producing fermented P. eryngii, highlighting their potential for the fermentation of edible mushrooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum S61 and prebiotic Xylooligosaccharide (XOS) on the physicochemical (pH, Titratable acidity, and °Brix), functional (color, total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, Vitamin C content), and sensory properties of orange juice during fermentation at 37 °C for 48 h. The fermented juice displayed favorable physicochemical characteristics (pH, Titratable acidity, and °Brix), important growth of the probiotic L. plantarum S61 (p < 0.05), and enhanced color and shelf life of the final product. The results showed that the values of total phenolic content, antioxidant activities, and Vitamin C range between 55.33 and 38.50 µM, 50.68–63.57%, and 17.5-23.75 mg/100 g, respectively, at the end of the fermentation. Furthermore, Probiotic and prebiotic supplementation enhanced significantly (p < 0.05) the total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity, and preserved the degradation of Vitamin C during fermentation. Moreover, there were no significant differences between the formulations regarding color, texture, and overall acceptance (p > 0.05). Consequently, the orange juice supplemented Xylooligosaccharide (prebiotic) and probiotic cultures could be applied to develop a new non-dairy synbiotic beverage product with important and high functional values and acceptance sensory properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Red rice is a kind of whole grain with health benefits. Probiotic fermentation is widely applied to promote nutrient release from cereals and improve bioactivity. The study aims to investigate the impact of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) dy‐1 fermentation on the bioactivities, bioaccessibility, and lipid‐lowering activities of red rice. Results indicated that fermentation significantly increased the protein and total phenolic content by 1.7 and 1.4 times of red rice, as well as the content of essential and nonessential amino acids. Fermentation remarkably increased the bioaccessibility of phenolics and the antioxidant capacity of red rice during in vitro digestion. Additionally, Caenorhabditis elegans study revealed that fermented red rice extract reduced the triglyceride content, alleviated fat deposition, and regulated lipid metabolism by altering the genes in the fatty acid oxidation and synthesis, such as daf‐16, mdt‐15, nhr‐49, fat‐5, fat‐7, and hosl‐1. Therefore, L. plantarum dy‐1 fermentation was beneficial for improving bioaccessibility and lipid‐lowering activities of red rice, which will provide a reference for utilization of red rice as a functional food.

Red rice is a kind of whole grain with health benefits. Probiotic fermentation is widely applied to promote nutrient release from cereals and improve bioactivity. The study aims to investigate the impact of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) dy‐1 fermentation on the bioactivities, bioaccessibility, and lipid‐lowering activities of red rice. Results indicated that fermentation significantly increased the protein and total phenolic content by 1.7 and 1.4 times of red rice, as well as the content of essential and nonessential amino acids. Fermentation remarkably increased the bioaccessibility of phenolics and the antioxidant capacity of red rice during in vitro digestion. Additionally, Caenorhabditis elegans study revealed that fermented red rice extract reduced the triglyceride content, alleviated fat deposition, and regulated lipid metabolism by altering the genes in the fatty acid oxidation and synthesis, such as daf‐16, mdt‐15, nhr‐49, fat‐5, fat‐7, and hosl‐1. Therefore, L. plantarum dy‐1 fermentation was beneficial for improving bioaccessibility and lipid‐lowering activities of red rice, which will provide a reference for utilization of red rice as a functional food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Fermentation can contribute to the supply of essential vitamins like folate, but studies exploring this potential are scarce. Injera is an Ethiopian fermented pancake‐like flatbread made from different cereals. The study aimed to investigate the effect of injera‐making process using different cereals (tef, sorghum, wheat, and barley) on folate content and to evaluate the effectiveness of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum in enhancing folate of injera made with different cereals. Cereals were used alone or in combination (tef and sorghum (1:1), wheat and sorghum (3:1), sorghum (100%), and barley (100%)). L. plantarum previously isolated from tef dough and ersho (fermentation batch) collected from the households were used as starters. Folate content of the flour, dough, and injera was determined by microbiological assay. Contribution of consumption of injera made with different cereals to the folate requirement of children and women of reproductive age was evaluated. Among the studied cereals, the highest average folate content (49.9 μg/100 g) was observed in 100% sorghum flour and the least (32.2 μg/100 g) in 100% barley flour, on dry weight basis. After fermentation, the highest average folate content (60.1 μg/100 g) was observed in 100% sorghum dough fermented with L. plantarum. Highest average folate content (15.45 μg/100 g) per fresh weight was observed in wheat and sorghum (3:1)‐blend injera fermented with L. plantarum. Consumption of L. plantarum–fermented injera made with different cereals contributed up to 8% of the recommended folate intake of women of reproductive age.

Fermented products consist beneficial probiotics, which makes these products render improved nutritional properties and health effects. There is a need for research to explore and establish the use of commonly existing fruits in fermented forms for application in skincare and as anti aging solutions. This study has been conducted to establish collagen building and antioxidant potential of fermented guava fruit juice powder. The human dermal fibroblast cells were used to determine the collagen building potential while chemical enzymatic assays were used to evaluate antioxidant properties of fermented guava juice powder (FGJP) . The antioxidant activity evaluated by the ability to scavenge DPPH radicals showed very high anti-oxidative capacity (IC50 = 0.015 mg/ml) comparable to ascorbic acid (IC50 = 0.018 mg/ml). This antioxidant potential can be attributed to the presence of various phytonutrients, primarily flavonoid (quercetin equivalent) at a concentration of 38 mcg/mg of the powder. The Collagen building potential was evaluated on the normal human fibroblast cell line . The levels of Collagen IV involved in skin cell migration, regeneration, and wound healing were estimated. FGJP imparted proliferation ability in NHDF cells at the concentrations of 0.025, 0.05, and 0.1mg/ml, which is 31% collagen synthesis against untreated cell control. This explains that fermented guava juice powder has a collagen building potential along with antioxidant properties. Such product would be helpful in providing a plant based anti aging solutions especially for vegan consumers. The optimized fermented guava juice powder has a shelf life of 45 days when stored at refrigerated conditions with a potential for combating oxidative stress and supporting in alleviating the aging symptoms like fine-line, wrinkle through collagen building. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fermentation can contribute to the supply of essential vitamins like folate, but studies exploring this potential are scarce. Injera is an Ethiopian fermented pancake‐like flatbread made from different cereals. The study aimed to investigate the effect of injera‐making process using different cereals (tef, sorghum, wheat, and barley) on folate content and to evaluate the effectiveness of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum in enhancing folate of injera made with different cereals. Cereals were used alone or in combination (tef and sorghum (1:1), wheat and sorghum (3:1), sorghum (100%), and barley (100%)). L. plantarum previously isolated from tef dough and ersho (fermentation batch) collected from the households were used as starters. Folate content of the flour, dough, and injera was determined by microbiological assay. Contribution of consumption of injera made with different cereals to the folate requirement of children and women of reproductive age was evaluated. Among the studied cereals, the highest average folate content (49.9 μg/100 g) was observed in 100% sorghum flour and the least (32.2 μg/100 g) in 100% barley flour, on dry weight basis. After fermentation, the highest average folate content (60.1 μg/100 g) was observed in 100% sorghum dough fermented with L. plantarum. Highest average folate content (15.45 μg/100 g) per fresh weight was observed in wheat and sorghum (3:1)‐blend injera fermented with L. plantarum. Consumption of L. plantarum–fermented injera made with different cereals contributed up to 8% of the recommended folate intake of women of reproductive age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work reports the controlled fermentation of heat-shocked, unsalted and inoculated green olives. The effects of heat-shock (60, 70 and 80 °C three times for 5 min), inoculation with the oleuropeinolytic strain of L. plantarum FSO175 (L.p-FSO175) and the addition of Cell-Free Supernatant of C. pelliculosa L18 (CFS of C.p-L18) on the fermentation process of unsalted green olives were examined. The results showed a drastic reduction in the initial indigenous Enterobacteria, and an improvement in the acidification of heat-shocked olives at 70 and 80 °C, when compared to 60 °C. The inoculation with L.p-FSO175 and addition of CFS of C.p-L18 enhanced the fermentation and preservation of unsalted green olives, indicated by a significant decrease in pH, increase in free acidity and total disappearance of Enterobacteria. The heat-shock treatment at high temperature (80 °C), inoculation with L.p-FSO175 and addition of CFS of C.p-L18 led to the best reduction in bitterness, and favorable color changes (L, a, and b) in fermented olives. This sequential method led to more appreciated sensory characteristics (mainly bitterness and color) of fermented olives, lower spoilage incidence in olives, and reduced fermentation time to 50 days, and therefore may be suitable to control the fermentation of unsalted green olives of the Moroccan picholine variety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work reports the controlled fermentation of heat-shocked, unsalted and inoculated green olives. The effects of heat-shock (60, 70 and 80 °C three times for 5 min), inoculation with the oleuropeinolytic strain of L. plantarum FSO175 (L.p-FSO175) and the addition of Cell-Free Supernatant of C. pelliculosa L18 (CFS of C.p-L18) on the fermentation process of unsalted green olives were examined. The results showed a drastic reduction in the initial indigenous Enterobacteria, and an improvement in the acidification of heat-shocked olives at 70 and 80 °C, when compared to 60 °C. The inoculation with L.p-FSO175 and addition of CFS of C.p-L18 enhanced the fermentation and preservation of unsalted green olives, indicated by a significant decrease in pH, increase in free acidity and total disappearance of Enterobacteria. The heat-shock treatment at high temperature (80 °C), inoculation with L.p-FSO175 and addition of CFS of C.p-L18 led to the best reduction in bitterness, and favorable color changes (L, a, and b) in fermented olives. This sequential method led to more appreciated sensory characteristics (mainly bitterness and color) of fermented olives, lower spoilage incidence in olives, and reduced fermentation time to 50 days, and therefore may be suitable to control the fermentation of unsalted green olives of the Moroccan picholine variety.

Abstract China has the greatest rice production in the world, but the problem of heavy metal pollution in rice is becoming increasingly serious. The present study examined a microbial immobilization method to remove cadmium (Cd) in rice flour. The study demonstrated that Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) exhibited the best removal effect, but the microorganisms were difficult to separate from rice flour. Diatomaceous earth coimmobilized microbial pellets (DECIMPs) were prepared using coimmobilized L. plantarum with sodium alginate (SA, 3%), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA, 2%), and diatomaceous earth (DE, 1%). Compared with microbial fermentation, the immobilized pellets had less influence on rice quality, and Cd removal rates of sample 1 (0.459 ± 0.006 mg/kg) and 2 (0.873 ± 0.031 mg/kg) reached 90.01% ± 1.01% (0.051 ± 0.003 mg/kg) and 91.80% ± 0.54% (0.068 ± 0.034 mg/kg), which were significantly higher than free microbial fermentation. In addition, microbial was easily separated. These results show that DECIMPs fermentation is an effective means of removing Cd from rice and could be considered as a strategy for the development of Cd‐free rice‐based foods.

Fermentation strains play a key role in the quality of bread. The combination of yeast and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) may effectively improve the function and nutritional properties of bread. In this study, the dough was fermented to make bread by using single strain (Saccharomyces cerevisiae, mode A), the combination of two strains (S. cerevisiae and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, mode B; S. cerevisiae and Lactobacillus delbrueckii, mode C), or three strains (S. cerevisiae, L. plantarum, and L. delbrueckii, mode D). The specific volume, texture, and aroma substances of bread were evaluated. The possibility of mixed fermentation of selected yeast and LAB to replace natural fermentation dough was evaluated. The results showed that the specific volume of bread in mode B was 15.2% higher than that of mode A. The structure was softer and the taste was more vigorous in mode B bread. The content of volatile compounds was highest in mode B bread among the four mode bread. The characteristic flavors were ethyl 2‐hydroxypropionate and z‐3‐hexenol. The cofermentation in mode B made the bread aroma richer and gave better aroma characteristics to bread. Therefore, the fermentation of S. cerevisiae and L. plantarum can be recommended to replace naturally fermented dough to improve the quality of bread. Practical Application: L. plantarum and L. delbrueckii, separately or together, assisted in yeast fermentation to make bread. The specific volume, texture, and aroma substances of bread were evaluated to replace natural fermented dough with mixed fermentation. L. plantarum–assisted yeast fermentation improved the specific volume, texture, and aroma of bread. The characteristic flavors were ethyl 2‐hydroxypropionate and z‐3‐hexenol in bread. Therefore, the fermentation of S. cerevisiae and L. plantarum could replace naturally fermented dough to improve the quality of bread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pullulan was used as the wall material for microencapsulation of L. plantarum CRD7 by spray drying, while isomalto-oligosaccharides (IMO) was used as prebiotic. Also, the effect of different thermal protectants on survival rate during microencapsulation was evaluated. Taguchi orthogonal array design showed that pullulan at 14 % concentration, IMO at 30 % concentration and whey protein isolate at 20 % rate were the optimized wall material, prebiotic and thermal protectant, respectively for microencapsulation of L. plantarum. FESEM images revealed that the spray-dried encapsulates were fibrous similar to those produce by electrospinning, while fluorescence microscopy ascertained that most of the probiotic cells were alive and intact after microencapsulation. The adsorption-desorption isotherm was of Type II and the encapsulate had specific surface area of 1.92 m2/g and mean pore diameter of 15.12 nm. The typical amide II and III bands of the bacterial proteins were absent in the FTIR spectra, suggestive of adequate encapsulation. DSC thermogram showed shifting of melting peaks to wider temperature range due to interactions between the probiotic and wall materials. IMO at 30 % (w /w) along with WPI at 20 % concentration provided the highest storage stability and the lowest rate of cell death of L. plantarum after microencapsulation. Acid and bile salt tolerance results confirmed that microencapsulated L. plantarum could sustain the harsh GI conditions with >7.5 log CFU/g viability. After microencapsulation, L. plantarum also possessed the ability to ferment milk into curd with pH of 4.62. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China has the greatest rice production in the world, but the problem of heavy metal pollution in rice is becoming increasingly serious. The present study examined a microbial immobilization method to remove cadmium (Cd) in rice flour. The study demonstrated that Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) exhibited the best removal effect, but the microorganisms were difficult to separate from rice flour. Diatomaceous earth coimmobilized microbial pellets (DECIMPs) were prepared using coimmobilized L. plantarum with sodium alginate (SA, 3%), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA, 2%), and diatomaceous earth (DE, 1%). Compared with microbial fermentation, the immobilized pellets had less influence on rice quality, and Cd removal rates of sample 1 (0.459 ± 0.006 mg/kg) and 2 (0.873 ± 0.031 mg/kg) reached 90.01% ± 1.01% (0.051 ± 0.003 mg/kg) and 91.80% ± 0.54% (0.068 ± 0.034 mg/kg), which were significantly higher than free microbial fermentation. In addition, microbial was easily separated. These results show that DECIMPs fermentation is an effective means of removing Cd from rice and could be considered as a strategy for the development of Cd‐free rice‐based foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop the approach for efficient alfalfa silage fermentation, L. plantarum strain RC1.4 (LP-RC1.4) was used as starter culture with or without sucrose. Trial groups consisted of ten repetitions for each treatment including (1) control, with added sterile water (10 mL); (2) LP, silages treated with LP-RC1.4 alone (106 cfu g–1 FM); (3) LP-S1, silages treated with LP-RC1.4 (106 cfu g–1 FM) plus sucrose at 10 g/kg fresh matter; (4) LP-S2, silages treated with LP-RC1.4 (106 cfu g–1 FM) plus sucrose at 20 g kg–1 fresh matter. Inoculation improved the quality of the silaging demonstrating a lower decrease of silage dry matter (DM) in comparison to the control silage. The CO2 production was also lower in the inoculated silages. The addition of sucrose improved microbiological and biochemical parameters of the resulting alfalfa silage, simultaneously with the increased number of lactobacilli, raised the content of water-soluble carbohydrates, while the number of yeasts and molds decreased. It was concluded that LP-RC1.4 inoculation should be supported with sucrose to insure domination of LAB fermentation and enhance of the silage quality of alfalfa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve the olives' quality, and to reduce the de-bittering time during the table olive fermentation process, it is necessary to pilot the fermentation by inoculating the brine with selected cultures of microorganisms. Some probiotic tests, such as resistance/sensitivity to antibiotics, bile salt hydrolase (BSH) activity, growth at acidic pH, an auto-aggregation assay, and a test of the production of exopolysaccharides, were carried out in order to screen 35 oleuropeinolytic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum strains to be used in guided fermentations of table olives. On the basis of the technological and probiotic screening, we analyzed the progress of three different lab-scale fermentations of Olea europaea L. Itrana cv. olives inoculated with spontaneous, single, and multiple starters: jar A was left to ferment spontaneously; jar B was inoculated with a strongly oleuropeinolytic strain (L. plantarum B1); jar C was inoculated with a multiple inoculum (L. plantarum B1 + L. plantarum B51 + L. plantarum B124). The following parameters were monitored during the fermentation: pH, titratable acidity, NaCl concentration, the degradation of bio-phenols, and the enrichment rate of hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol in the olive's flesh, oil and brine. The degradation of secoiridoid glucosides appeared to be faster in the inoculated jars than in the spontaneously-fermented jar. The production of hydroxytyrosol and ligstroside aglycons was high. This indicated a complete degradation of the oleuropein and a partial degradation of the ligstroside. The multiple inoculum ensured a complete debittering, and could give probiotic traits. The presence of L. plantarum B1 and B124 as a fermentation starter guarantees an optimal trend of de-bittering and fermentation variables, thus ensuring the production of a better final product. L. plantarum B51 could be considered to be a promising probiotic candidate for obtaining probiotic food of completely vegetable origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present research, the effects of continuous ultrasound treatment (100 W, 30 kHz; 0%, 30%, 60% and 90% amplitudes, 15 min) and fermentation process (37°C, 24 h) on the growth of Lactobacillus plantarum LP3 and LU5 strains and bioactive properties (peptide content, α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase inhibition, anticancer and antioxidant activities and exopolysaccharide content) of goat milk were investigated. According to our results, the ultrasonication of milk up to 60% amplitude promoted the growth of Lactobacillus strains and enhanced the bioactive properties compared with control during fermentation, while, the ultrasonication at 90% amplitude had negative effects on the mentioned parameters. Exopolysaccharide content, α‐amylase inhibition, α‐glucosidase inhibition, antioxidant activity and anticancer activity of treated samples at 60% amplitude at the end of fermentation in comparison to its beginning were increased 18.09, 12.79, 12.44, 9.4 and 1.92 folds, respectively. Also, the increase of assayed characteristics was found strain‐dependent, so that L. plantarum LP3 was more effective than LU5 strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the effects of moisture, rain damage, and additives on fermentation quality and vitamins change in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) silage. Two moisture content alfalfa (53 and 72% moisture content) were received artificial rain damage. Then, the formic acid and L. plantarum (LP) + sucrose were added. After 30 days, silos were opened. The significant interaction between rain damage and moisture content were found for nutrients and fermentation characteristics in alfalfa silage, which showed more rain damage effects occurred in 53% moisture content rather than in 72% moisture content material. Treatment with LP + sucrose had lower pH value, ammonia-N/total N, and higher lactic acid content compared to the other additives. The concentrations of a-tocopherol and phylloquinone increased, but thiamine, riboflavin, and ascorbic acid decreased in alfalfa silage treated with LP + sucrose, especially when the alfalfa was subjected to rain damage. The highly significant correlations were found between pantothenic acid (VB5) and pH, and between VB5 and lactic acid. The improvements in fermentation quality by adding of LP + sucrose was observed after rain damage for either 53% or 72% moisture alfalfa, which can be a guideline for forage processor who ensiles alfalfa after rain damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Folate is a B vitamin that participates in one-carbon transfer reactions of metabolism process, particularly purine and pyrimidine biosynthesis (DNA and RNA). Some strains of lactic acid bacteria are known to produce folic acid through the conversion of guanosine tri phosphate and the presence of precursor p-amino benzoic acid and glutamic acid. In this study, skim milk was fermented using Lactobacillus plantarum Dad-13, G-3, and H-1 to increase the levels of folate. Fermentation was conducted at 37 °C for 18 hours. The aims of this study were to investigate the population of L. plantarum during fermentation period, the change in pH and the levels of folate in fermented milk. The results showed that during the fermentation period using L. plantarum G-3, H-1, and Dad-13 cell count increased from 107 to 108 for G-3 and H-1, while Dad-13 into 109. The pH value decreased and the levels of folic acid in early fermentation increased rapidly but after approaching the end of fermentation, it began to stagnate. The folate level of skim milk was 23.70 ± 3.25 µg/L. Increased levels of folate in fermented milk after 18 hours fermentation using L. plantarum Dad-13, G-3, and H-1 were 32.04 ± 1.85 µg/L (135.19%), 28.21 ± 0.28 µg/L (118.99%), and 25.13 ± 1.27 µg/L (106.03%), respectively. ABSTRAK Folat merupakan vitamin B yang berpartisipasi dalam reaksi transfer satu-karbon dalam proses metabolisme, terutama biosintesis purin dan pirimidin (DNA dan RNA). Beberapa strain bakteri asam laktat diketahui mampu memproduksi asam folat melalui konversi guanosin tri pospat dan dengan adanya prekursor p-amino benzoat serta asam glutamat. Pada penelitian ini, susu skim difermentasi menggunakan Lactobacillus plantarum Dad-13, G-3, dan H-1 untuk meningkatkan kadar asam folatnya. Fermentasi dilakukan pada 37 °C selama 18 jam. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pola pertumbuhan sel, perubahan pH, dan kadar asam folat susu selama fermentasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa selama fermentasi menggunakan L. plantarum Dad-13, G-3, dan H-1 jumlah sel meningkat dari 107 menjadi 108 untuk G-3 dan H-1, sedangkan Dad-13 menjadi 109. Nilai pH mengalami penurunan dan kadar asam folat pada awal fermentasi meningkat dengan cepat tapi setelah mendekati akhir fermentasi mulai stagnan. Kadar asam folat susu skim adalah 23,70 ± 3,25 µg/L. Dibandingkan dengan kadar asam folat susu skim, peningkatan kadar folat susu fermentasi setelah 18 jam fermentasi dengan starter L. plantarum Dad-13, G-3, dan H-1 secara berturut-turut 32,04 ± 1,85 µg/L (135,19%), 28,21 ± 0,28 µg/L (118,99%), dan 25,13 ± 1,27 µg/L (106,03%).

Mahewu is a fermented cereal beverage produced in Zimbabwe. This study determined the composition and origin of mahewu microbiota. The microbiota of mahewu samples consisted of 3 - 7 dominant strains of lactobacilli and two strains of yeasts. Enterobacteriaceae were not detected. Candida glabrata was present in high cell counts from samples collected in summer but not from samples collected in winter. Millet malt is the only raw ingredient used in the production of mahewu and is a likely source of fermentation microbiota, therefore, malt microbiota was also analyzed by culture dependent and high throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing methodologies. Millet malt contained 8 - 19 strains of Enterobacteriaceae, lactobacilli, bacilli and very few yeasts. Strain-specific quantitative PCR assays were established on the basis of the genome sequences of Lactobacillus fermentum FUA3588, FUA3589 and Lactobacillus plantarum FUA3590 to obtain a direct assessment of the identity of strains from malt and mahewu. L. fermentum FUA3588 and 3589 were detected in millet malt, demonstrating that millet malt is a main source of mahewu microbiota. Strains which were detected in summer were not detected in samples produced at the same site in winter. Model mahewu fermentations conducted with a 5 strain inoculum consisting of lactobacilli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Cronobacter sakazakii demonstrated that lactobacilli outcompete Enterobacteriaceae, which sharply decreased in the first 24 h. In conclusion, mahewu microbiota is mainly derived from millet malt microbiota but minor components of malt microbiota rapidly outcompete Enterobacteriaceae and Bacillus species during fermentation. IMPORTANCE. This study provides insight into the composition and origin of the microbiota of mahewu and the composition of millet malt microbiota. Fermentation microbiota are often hypothesized to be derived from the environment but the evidence remains inconclusive. Our on May 20, findings confirm that millet malt is the major source of mahewu microbiota. By complementing cultural methods with high throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA amplicons and strain specific qPCR, this study provides evidence about the source of mahewu microbiota which can inform the development of starter cultures for mahewu production. The study also documents the fate of Enterobacteriaceae during the fermentation of mahewu. There are concerns regarding the safety of traditionally prepared mahewu, and this requires in-depth knowledge of the fermentation process. Therefore, this study elucidated millet malt microbiota, and identified cultures that are able to control the high numbers of Enterobacteriaceae that are initially present in mahewu fermentations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigated the effect of controlled malolactic fermentation starters (Lactobacillus plantarum NoVA and Oenococcus oeni Oenos) and an un-inoculated culture on cherry wine's physical, biochemical and sensory properties. NoVA promoted MLF most efficiently (15d), resulted in a large increase in the concentration of many esters and aromatic alcohols, and reinforced the cherry wine's 'fruity' note and overall aroma. MLF carried out by Oenos lasted for 18 days, accompanied by the increase of many volatile compounds (with 2-phenylethyl acetate and benzaldehyde as major representatives) and several biogenic amines. With respect to spontaneous MLF, Tatumella, Pantoea, Lactococcus, and Lactobacillus were identified as the dominant genera, with a fermentation period of 25 d and the total biogenic amine amount 1.6-fold than that at the end of alcoholic fermentation. This study has proved that the use of Viniflora NoVA to conduct MLF is a worthwhile alternative to the traditional cherry wine-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Legumes offer the possibility to develop multifunctional foods with benefits for metabolic syndrome. Our objective was to study the effect of alkaline fermentation by Lactobacillus plantarum and Savinase (FLPS) as well the individual effects of both processes on peptides, phenolics and bioactivity of lentil. FLPS increased peptides and some flavonoids and enhanced antioxidant activity, inhibition of angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) and intestinal maltase activities of lentil soluble fraction. Savinase contributed to peptide release, ACE inhibitory and antioxidant activities of lentil soluble fraction. L. plantarum affected to phenolic composition, α-glucosidase and lipase inhibitory activities. Mass spectrometry analysis of the most active fermented lentil subfraction allowed the identification of the main bioactive compounds. Gastrointestinal digestion of fermented lentil increased bioaccessibility of peptides and phenolics as well as antioxidant activity. FLPS enhanced the overall healthy potential of lentil offering the possibility of its use as strategy for lentil functionalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The appropriate choice of lactic acid bacteria starter in malolactic fermentation (MLF) and a reasonable amount of acidity are two important factors that can greatly influence cherry wine's physical, biochemical and the sensory properties. The current work investigated the effect of two bacterial starters ( L. plantarum CX19 and O. oeni PN4™), three pH values (3.2, 3.5 and 3.8) after alcoholic fermentation, and the interactive effects, on the MLF performance and the properties of cherry wine. The resulting MLF performance showed that PN4 had greater resistance to the lowest pH value (pH 3.2), whereas under mild wine conditions (pH ≥ 3.5), CX19 promoted MLF more efficiently. In both bacteria cultured cherry wines, a lower wine pH resulted in an evident reduction in colour intensity as well as a slight increase in the total biogenic amine concentration. During sensory evaluation, increased organoleptic properties associated with a higher perception of ‘fruity’ and a stronger palate of bitterness and astringency were evident in the wine made with CX19 at pH 3.5. Principal component analysis revealed a strong correlation between wine clustering and the chemical components, highlighting the greater significance of pH treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate the efficacy of customised Lactobacillus plantarum KCC-10, KCC-19 and K-46 on nutrient composition and fermentation quality of low moisture Italian ryegrass (IRG) forage. An addition of customised bacterial inoculants (CBI) did not affect the nutrient compositions and digestibility rates of haylage. The lactic acid content was higher in CBI-inoculated haylage, whereas the amount of acetic acid and butyric acid production was significantly reduced than the control. CBI-inoculated haylage exhibited higher numbers of bacterial colonies that reduced the pH of the haylage. Low pH in haylage is an important criterion for preventing undesirable microbial growth and improves fermentation quality of haylage. PCR studies indicated that the DNA of L. plantarum was predominantly amplified. It evidenced that the CBI is the main reason behind the improvement of haylage fermentation as compared to control. Overall results suggested that KCC-10, KCC-19 and K-46 are considered as potent strains for improving fermentation quality of low moisture forage and preserve its stability for a long time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mixed malolactic fermentation conducted by different starters are supposed to bring changes to wine properties. In this work, the combination of two classic MLF strains (L. plantarum or O. oeni , with different blend ratio) was investigated for the making of mulberry wines, with special emphasis on their performance during MLF and their interactive influence on the wine's volatile and sensory property. The bacterial diversity during fermentation was evaluated by a next-generation sequencing method, and L. plantarum was found dominating over other genera most of the fermentation period. The volatile compounds were determined by HS-GC-IMS, and different volatile profiles were acquired as a result of different bacterial blend ratio. As for sensory evaluation, all mixed MLFs resulted in better sensory properties than single MLF, and LO41 (the inoculum of L. plantarum : O. oeni = 4:1) gained the highest score for global aroma, based on its reinforcement on 'fruity' and reduction of 'pungent' odors in wine. Furthermore, PLS was used to build the relationship between various volatiles and wine attributes, and further to explain the sensory data. Overall, our study provides an alternative strategy of combined MLF to improve the sensory property of mulberry wines. • Evidence of mixed MLF to improve mulberry wine's properties was presented. • L. plantarum dominated over O. oeni in mixed culture despite of initial blend ratio. • All mixed MLFs resulted in better sensory qualities than single MLF. • LO41 (L. plantarum : O. oeni = 4:1) scored the highest global aroma. • PLS model built and explained the relationship between volatiles and sensory odors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactobacillus plantarum is used for fermentation of fish products, meat and milk. However, the utilization of these bacteria in egg processing has not been done. This study was designed to evaluate the potential of fermented egg albumen as a functional food that is rich in angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitors activity (ACE-inhibitor activity) and is antihypertensive. A completely randomized design was used in this study with six durations of fermentation (6, 12, 18, 24, 30, and 36 h) as treatments. Six hundred eggs obtained from the same chicken farm were used in the experiment as sources of egg albumen. Bacteria L. plantarum FNCC 0027 used in the fermentation was isolated from cow's milk. The parameters measured were the total bacteria, dissolved protein, pH, total acid and the activity of ACE-inhibitors. The results showed that there were significant effects of fermentation time on the parameters tested. Total bacteria increased significantly during fermentation for 6, 12, 18, and 24 h and then decreased with the increasing time of fermentation to 30 and 36 h. Soluble protein increased significantly during fermentation to 18 h and then subsequently decreased during of fermentation to 24, 30, and 36 h. The pH value decreased markedly during fermentation. The activities of ACE-inhibitor in fermented egg albumen increased during fermentation to 18 h and then decreased with the increasing of the duration of fermentation to 24, 30, and 36 h. The egg albumen which was fermented for 18 h resulted in a functional food that was rich in ACE-inhibitor activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance Leaves of Plectranthus amboinicus are consumed in India along with buttermilk (a probiotic source) during pathogen induced diarrhea. This treatment is known to reduce the number of episodes as well as duration of diarrhea. Aim of the study In the background of its ethnobotanical use, the present investigation was carried out to determine whether, apart from having an antimicrobial activity on pathogens, the leaves could possibly also have a positive effect on the beneficial microflora of the gut resulting in accelerated microbial ecological balance. Materials and methods The growth stimulating activity of the hot water extract (HWE) of P. amboinicus leaves on probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum was determined by microbroth dilution technique and viable plate count method in selective medium (MRS) as well as in fermented milk. The ability of the bacteria to utilize the phytoconstituents of HWE primarily phenolic acids and sugars was determined by assaying for phenolic acid decarboxylase by SDS-PAGE and β-galactosidase activity by β-gal ONPG assay. Results HWE of P. amboinicus leaves inhibited growth of pathogens ( Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium ) while stimulated the growth of L. plantarum . SDS-PAGE gel showed the presence of phenolic acid decarboxylase enzyme induced in the presence of HWE in L. plantarum indicating the utilization of polyphenols by the bacteria. Cells grown on HWE also showed β-galactosidase activity indicating their ability to utilize sugars present in HWE. Conclusion Indian borage leaves have a prebiotic effect on the probiotic bacteria ( L. plantarum ) which utilizes the phytoconstituents of the leaves by producing necessary metabolic enzymes. This work provides evidence in the traditional use of the leaves in the alleviation of diarrhea by accelerating microbial gut balance during infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the ability of Lactobacillus plantarum strains (NGL5 and NGL7) and Candida tropicalis (NGY1) previously identified from akamu-a Nigerian fermented maize food with probiotic L. plantarum LpTx and Saccharomyces boulardii SB20 to ferment ground maize slurries based on pH, acidity, microbial biomass, levels of sugars and organic acids, and their antimicrobial activity against Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis NCTC 5188, Escherichia coli NCTC 11560, Bacillus cereus NCIMB 11925, Staphylococcus aureus NCTC 3750 and Listeria monocytogenes NCTC 7973 using an agar spot assay. L. plantarum strains either as single or mixed starter cultures with the yeasts had growth rates ≥0.15 h-1, with pH significantly (p≤0.05) decreased to ≤3.93 after 12 h and then to ≤3.52 after 72 h and lactic acid >84 mmol L-1. The yeasts had growth rates ≥0.18 h-1 but pH was ≥4.57 with lactic acid levels ≤20.23 mmol L-1 after 72 h in the single culture fermentation. There was no inhibition in modified MRS agar: 0.2% glucose and 0.2% glucose without Tween 80. Inhibition halos in MRS agar varied from 10.6 to 23.9 mm. S. bourladii was more inhibitory towards L. monocytogenes (8.6 mm) and B. cereus (5.4 mm) than was C. tropicalis (1.1 and 3.3 mm for L. monocytogenes NCTC 7973 and B. cereus NCIMB 11925 respectively) (0.9 mm) in malt extract agar. This study showed that C. tropicalis was less inhibitory to the pathogens while antimicrobial activities of the L. plantarum strains were mainly due to acidity and the L. plantarum strains either as single or mixed cultures with the yeasts demonstrated strong fermentation ability, with significant decrease in pH which is vital in the choice of starter for product safety [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Destabilization of oil-water emulsion in coconut milk, in the production of virgin coconut oil (VCO), can be accelerated with the utilization of lactic acid bacteria fermentation. This research was aimed to determine physicochemical and antibacterial characteristics of VCO from coconut hybrid variety fermented with L. casei of Yakult® and two isolates of L. plantarum from mandai (traditionally fermented Artocarpus campeden) and coconut water. The observed physicochemical of VCO included yield, specific gravity, moisture content, saponification value, peroxide value, and free fatty acid. The antibacterial activity was subjected to the well diffusion method against E. coli and S. aureus with chloramphenicol as the positive control. L. casei yielded the best VCO-BAL at 34.5% (v/v), while L. plantarum from mandai and coconut water yielded 29.5% (v/v) and 25.3% (v/v), respectively. VCO-BAL from L. casei had the lightest specific gravity of 0.84±0.04 g.mL-1. Average of measured moisture contents (0.03-0.05%), saponification values (161.3-163.6), peroxide values (0.53-0.86), and free fatty acids (0.11-0.12%) of the three VCO-BALs were not significantly (p>0.05) different with respect to control. VCO-BAL produced from L. plantarum of coconut water did not exhibit better antibacterial activity compared to control. VCO-BAL from L. casei demonstrated highest antibacterial activity against E. coli, 6.45±0.50 mm (58.1% of positive control) and S. aureus, 5.23±0.40 mm (51.3% of positive control). It is deduced that antibacterial activity from VCO-BAL is contributed by hydrophobic bacteriocins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green tea infusion was fermented with probiotic yeast (Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745), probiotic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 299V) and a mixed culture of S. boulardii CNCM I-745 and L. plantarum 299V. Co-inoculation of yeast and LAB remarkably enhanced the survival of LAB in probiotic-fermented tea. Meanwhile, co-culturing enhanced the aroma compound generation; ethyl esters with fruity notes arose in both yeast monoculture and co-culture fermented teas. Compared to monoculture fermentations, co-fermentation elevated the amounts of methyl salicylate, geraniol and 2-phenylethyl alcohol to higher levels, and consumed lactic acid produced by L. plantarum to a lower level. The findings from this research suggest that fermentation of tea infusion with probiotics would be an innovative way to modulate tea flavor and develop a novel tea beverage with high counts of live probiotics. • Green tea infusion was transformed by probiotic yeast and lactic acid bacteria. • Co-inoculation of S. boulardii and L. plantarum enhanced survival of L. plantarum. • Co-inoculation of S. boulardii and L. plantarum boosted aroma compounds in fermented tea infusion. • Co-inoculation alleviated acid stress on L. plantarum by consuming lactic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to identify lactic acid bacteria and Gram-positive catalase-positive cocci isolated from Turkish dry fermented sausage (sucuk) produced by 7 different manufacturers without using starter culture. A total of 129 isolates of lactic acid bacteria were identified phenotypically. Lactobacillus plantarum was the dominant species (45.7%) followed by L. curvatus (10.9%) and L. fermentum (9.3%). Pediococcus isolates were identified as P. pentosaceus and P. acidilactici. All the isolates of gram-positive and catalase-positive cocci (123 isolates) were classified as Staphylococcus except for 1 isolate assigned to Kocuria rosea. The species isolated most often were S. xylosus (41.5%) and S. saprophyticus (28.5%). Four isolates were identified as S. equorum (3.3%), 1 isolate was assigned to S. carnosus (0.8%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to control the fermentation time and nitrite content of suancai prepared with Lactobacillus plantarum. According to analyses of the consumption amount and rate of nutrients, growth-stimulating nutrients, essential nutrients and nutrients accelerating the fermentation process of suancai, Asp, Thr, Glu, Cys, Tyr, Mg2+, Mn2+ and inosine were selected as additions to suancai prepared with L. plantarum. The fermentation time and nitrite content of suancai supplemented with nutrients and prepared with L. plantarum were shortened by 2 days and 5 days and reduced by approximately 0.1-fold and 0.7-fold, respectively, compared with unsupplemented suancai prepared with L. plantarum at 25 °C and 10 °C. The fermentation time and nitrite content of suancai supplemented with nutrients and prepared with L. plantarum were shortened by 6 days and 15 days and reduced by approximately 0.17-fold and 0.8-fold, respectively, compared with suancai undergoing spontaneous fermentation at 25 °C and 10 °C. Furthermore, no significant differences were observed in sensory properties in suancai. The results of this study indicated that certain nutrients accelerated the growth of L. plantarum and reduced the fermentation time and nitrite content of suancai prepared with L. plantarum. These findings help to establish a foundation for the practical use of nutrients to control the fermentation of suancai. • The nutrient consumption patterns of L. plantarum were revealed. • The essential and stimulatory nutrients of the L. plantarum were clarified. • The nutrients shorten fermentation time and reduced nitrite content of suancai. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Metagenomics analysis indicated the presence fructophilic lactic acid bacteria (FLAB) in cocoa beans fermentation. • A total of 204 presumptive FLAB were isolated by plating on media containing 30% fructose. • Only isolated identified as L. plantarum showed fructophilic proprieties. • Two aroma-producing strains, L. plantarum LPBF30 and LPBF35, were selected. • The inoculation of L. plantarum LPB35 improved fructose consumption during fermentation. Fructophilic lactic acid bacteria (FLAB) are a recently discovered group whose main characteristic is to prefer D-fructose over D-glucose. In this study, laboratory cocoa beans fermentation was analyzed by Illumina-based amplicon sequencing, indicating the presence of potential FLAB of the genera Fructobacillus and Lactobacillus. Eighty efficient fructose-fermenting isolates, obtained from fermenting cocoa pulp beans mass, were identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing as Pediococcus acidilactici (n = 52), Lactobacillus plantarum (n = 10), Pediococcus pentosaceus (n = 10), Bacillus subtilis (n = 4), and Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides (n = 4). The growth characteristics of all the 10 L. plantarum strains classified them as "facultatively" fructophilic bacteria, i.e., they grew on glucose without an external electron acceptor but the growth on fructose was faster. Among them, L. plantarum LPBF 35 was characterized by producing a range of aroma-impacting compounds (acetaldehyde, ethyl acetate, nonanal, and octanoic acid), being introduced into a cocoa fermentation process. Although the process started with approximately equal amounts of glucose and fructose, a concomitant, but faster utilization of fructose, was observed in cocoa fermentation conducted with L. plantarum LPBF 35 (with no residual fructose observed) when compared to control fermentation using a glucophilic strain (8.77 mg/g residual fructose) and a spontaneous process (8.38 mg/g residual fructose). L. plantarum LPBF 35 also showed an ideal profile of organic acid metabolism (citric acid consumption and lactic acid production) associated with cocoa fermentation. These results proved new insights on cocoa microbial activity and brings new perspectives on the use of lactic acid bacteria as starter culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]