Antimicrobial and Probiotic Potential of Lactobacilli Associated with Traditional Fermented Beverages.

Fermented foods have been recognized as a source of probiotic bacteria which can have a positive effect when administered to humans and animals. Discovering new probiotics in fermented food products poses a global economic and health importance. In this study, we investigated the antimicrobial and probiotic potential of lactobacilli isolated from fermented beverages produced traditionally by ethnic groups in Northeast India. Out of thirty Lactobacilli, fifteen exhibited strong antimicrobial activity against Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter aerogenes with significant anti-biofilm and anti-quorum sensing activity. These isolates also showed characteristics associated with probiotic properties, such as tolerance to low pH and bile salts, survival in the gastric tract, auto-aggregation, and hydrophobicity without exhibiting hemolysis formation or resistance to certain antibiotics. The isolates were identified using gram staining, biochemical tests, and 16S rDNA sequencing. They exhibited probiotic potential, broad-spectrum of antibacterial activity, promising anti-biofilm, anti-quorum sensing activity, non-hemolytic, and tolerance to acidic pH and bile salts. Overall, four specific Lactobacillus isolates, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum BRD3A and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei RB10OW from fermented rice-based beverage, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum RB30Y and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei MP11A from traditional local curd demonstrated potent antimicrobial and probiotic properties. These findings suggest that these lactobacilli isolates from fermented beverages have the potential to be used as probiotics with therapeutic benefits, highlighting the importance of traditional fermented foods for promoting gut health and infectious disease management.

Yeast strains isolated from fermented beverage produce extracellular vesicles with anti-inflammatory effects.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid-bilayered particles, containing various biomolecules, including nucleic acids, lipids, and proteins, released by cells from all the domains of life and performing multiple communication functions. Evidence suggests that the interaction between host immune cells and fungal EVs induces modulation of the immune system. Most of the studies on fungal EVs have been conducted in the context of fungal infections; therefore, there is a knowledge gap in what concerns the production of EVs by yeasts in other contexts rather than infection and that may affect human health. In this work, we characterized EVs obtained by Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Pichia fermentans strains isolated from a fermented milk product with probiotic properties. The immunomodulation abilities of EVs produced by these strains have been studied in vitro through immune assays after internalization from human monocyte-derived dendritic cells. Results showed a significant reduction in antigen presentation activity of dendritic cells treated with the fermented milk EVs. The small RNA fraction of EVs contained mainly yeast mRNA sequences, with a few molecular functions enriched in strains of two different species isolated from the fermented milk. Our results suggest that one of the mechanisms behind the anti-inflammatory properties of probiotic foods could be mediated by the interactions of human immune cells with yeast EVs.

Development and characterization of a novel flavored functional fermented whey-based sports beverage fortified with Spirulina platensis.

Spirulina platensis, a microalga known for its exceptional nutritional value, especially its bioactive compounds and protein content, holds promise for incorporation into functional food products. Ricotta cheese whey is a byproduct of the production of ricotta cheese that is difficult to use in industries due to its low pH and less favorable processing qualities. This research aimed to create a unique fermented ricotta cheese whey-based beverage supplemented with various Spirulina powder concentrations (0.25 %, 0.5 %, and 0.75 % w/w) cooperated with a mixture of lemon and peppermint juice 10 % and fermented by probiotic (ABT) culture. The physicochemical, rheological, bioactive compounds, microbiological, and sensory properties were evaluated over a storage period of 21 days at cold storage. Spirulina-fermented whey-based beverages with a mixture of lemon and peppermint juice increased the concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and total phenolic compounds in the final product. The count of probiotic bacteria in all fermented beverage samples exceeded 7 log CFU/mL throughout storage, indicating that the fermented beverage kept its probiotic properties. The addition of 0.5 % Spirulina significantly improved the final product's structural qualities and sensory acceptance.

A single dietary factor, daily consumption of a fermented beverage, can modulate the gut bacteria and fecal metabolites within the same ethnic community.

IMPORTANCE: Our study investigated how a traditional drink called Apong, made from fermented rice, affects the gut and health of the Mishing community in India. We compared two groups of people who drink Apong to a group of people who do not drink it. To accomplish this, we studied the gut bacteria, fecal metabolites, and blood samples of the participants. It was found that the people who drank Apong had higher blood pressure but lower blood sugar and protein levels than people who did not drink it. We also found that the gut microbiome composition of people who drank Apong was different from those who did not drink it. Moreover, people who drank Apong had lower levels of isovaleric acid in their feces. Overall, this study shows that a traditional drink like Apong can affect the gut bacteria of a community.

Evaluation of co-fermentation of L. plantarum and P. kluyveri of a plant-based fermented beverage: Physicochemical, functional, and sensory properties.

In this study, Pichia kluyveri (P. kluyveri) and Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) were sequentially inoculated into a plant-based beverage consisting of bananas, broccoli, and wolfberries. The physicochemical characteristics, functional components, and taste of it at different stages were determined. After 8-d fermentation, the viable counts of P. kluyveri and L. plantarum were 6.50 log CFU/mL and 8.43 log CFU/mL, respectively. The ethanol was <0.5 % (v/v). Compared with control group, the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity increased by 96.08 folds and total phenolics content increased by 1.09 folds. The contents of lactic acid, protocatechuic acid, and chlorogenic acid exhibited an upgrade trend, whereas the contents of caffeic acid and malic acid presented a downward tendency. Some organic acids had positive correlations with sensory quality, especially sourness. In addition, the γ-amino butyric acid (GABA) concentration and antioxidant activity were also improved during fermentation. Results showed the nutritional functional properties and sensory quality of this beverage could be improved through co-fermentation of P. kluyveri and L. plantarum.

Preparation of a probiotic quinoa beverage by enzymatic hydrolysis of its starches and subsequent lactic acid fermentation / Elaboración de una bebida probiótica de quinua por hidrólisis enzimática de sus almidones y posterior fermentación ácido láctica

Background: The concern about consuming healthy foods has increased in recent years. Not only are they expected to comply with essential feeding functions, but they also provide health benefits. Probiotics are one of the main functional components expected to be present in functional foods and beverages. They provide many health benefits and stand out due to their metabolic capacities and adaptability to different habitats. In addition, Quinoa seeds contain valuable quantities of quality protein and nutritional values of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, fibers, and mineral substances for which they are considered an ideal dietary alternative. Objectives: This research aimed to elaborate on a probiotic quinoa beverage, which combines the effect of enzymatic hydrolysis of the starches obtained from its seeds with lactic acid fermentation using probiotic cultures, seeking to enhance its nutritional properties and converting it into a functional beverage. Methods: For this, fermentations were carried out in three different concentrations of probiotic cultures (inoculum): 10%, 5%, 1%, and three other different fermentation times: 8, 10, and 12 hours. pH, Total titrable acidity expressed as lactic acid (%), reducing sugars, and soluble solids were measured. After that, the beverage was formulated with honey, carob, preservatives, and mango flavoring. Results: Statistical analysis indicated optimal conditions were achieved with 10% probiotic cultures and 10 hours of fermentation. The microbiological analysis confirmed the presence of probiotic microorganisms at a concentration of 108 CFU/mL. Proximal analysis indicated that the composition contained 84.6 Kcal, 19.3 g of carbohydrates, and 1.4 g of protein per 100 g of beverage. Conclusions: The probiotic quinoa beverage was produced and can be considered in the group of plant-based foods, as well as a functional beverage, since the probiotic cultures it contains contribute to maintaining the intestinal microbiota and prevent the onset of chronic diseases.

Antecedentes: La preocupación por el consumo alimentos saludables ha aumentado en los últimos años. No solo se espera que cumplan con las funciones esenciales de alimentación, sino que también brinden beneficios para la salud. Los probióticos son uno de los principales componentes funcionales que se espera que estén presentes en los alimentos y bebidas funcionales. Aportan múltiples beneficios para la salud y destacan por sus capacidades metabólicas y adaptabilidad a diferentes hábitats. Además, las semillas de quinua contienen valiosas cantidades de proteína de notable calidad, valores nutricionales de carbohidratos, proteínas, grasas, fibras y sustancias minerales por lo que se consideran una alternativa dietética ideal. Objetivos: Esta investigación tuvo como objetivo elaborar una bebida probiótica de quinua, que combina el efecto de la hidrólisis enzimática de los almidones obtenidos de sus semillas con la fermentación láctica utilizando cultivos probióticos, buscando potenciar sus propiedades nutricionales y convertirla en una bebida funcional. Métodos: Para ello se realizaron fermentaciones en tres concentraciones diferentes de cultivos probióticos (inóculo): 10%, 5%, 1%, y tres distintos tiempos de fermentación: 8, 10 y 12 horas. Se midió pH, Acidez titulable total expresada como ácido láctico (%), azúcares reductores y sólidos solubles. Posteriormente, se formuló la bebida con miel, algarrobina, conservantes y saborizante de mango. Resultados: El análisis estadístico indicó que se lograron condiciones óptimas con 10% de cultivos probióticos y 10 horas de fermentación. El análisis microbiológico confirmó la presencia de microorganismos probióticos a una concentración de 108 UFC/mL. El análisis proximal indicó que la composición contenía 84,6 Kcal, 19,3 g de carbohidratos y 1,4 g de proteína por 100 g de bebida. Conclusiones: la bebida probiótica de quinua fue elaborada y puede ser considerada en el grupo de alimentos de origen vegetal, así como una bebida funcional, ya que los cultivos probióticos que contiene contribuyen al mantenimiento de la microbiota intestinal y previenen la aparición de enfermedades crónicas.

Probiotic fermented whey-milk beverages: Effect of different probiotic strains on the physicochemical characteristics, biological activity, and bioactive peptides.

The effect of probiotic strains (Lactobacillus acidophilus La-03 (La-03); Lactobacillus acidophilus La-05 (La-05); Bifidobacterium Bb-12 (Bb-12) or Lacticaseibacillus casei-01 (L. casei-01)) on the characteristics of fermented whey-milk beverages during storage (4 °C, 30 days) was evaluated. The products were assessed for biological and antioxidant activities, physicochemical characteristics, and bioactive peptides. Probiotic addition increased α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition and antioxidant activities, mainly at 15 days of storage. L. casei-01 showed higher metabolic activity (higher titratable acidity and lower pH values) and the presence of anti-hypertensive peptides, while La-5 and Bb-12 showed higher α-glucosidase inhibition, improvements in the high saturated hypercholesterolemic index, and peptides with ACE-inhibitory, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant activities. Our findings suggest that probiotic fermented whey-milk beverages may exert antidiabetic and antioxidant properties, being suggested La-5 or Bb-12 as probiotics and 15 days of storage.

Peptidomic analysis of the angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitory peptides in milk fermented with Lactobacillus delbrueckii QS306 after ultrahigh pressure treatment.

In this study, we assessed the effect of ultrahigh pressure (UHP) treatment on the concentration of peptides and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity in milk fermented with Lactobacillus delbrueckii QS306. The peptides were identified using peptidomic analysis, and 313 unique peptides were identified. These peptides were derived from 53 precursor proteins. Before and after UHP treatment, 361 (22.2%) peptide sequences exhibited difference, and 53 peptide segments were significantly different. Among them, small peptides (amino acid residues ≤6) isoelectric were point at pH 5-6, and the net charge was mainly positive or neutral. With hydrophobicity and ACE inhibitory activity as screening indicators, 214 small peptides with potential ACE inhibitory activity were identified, and 130 new peptides had potential ACE inhibitory activity. A novel ACE inhibitory peptide VAPFP was synthesized, whose in vitro inhibition rate was 10.56 µmol\/L. Therefore, using peptidomics, the changes in peptide sequences and enhancement in ACE inhibitory activity before and after UHP treatment could be effectively identified in milk fermented with Lactobacillus delbrueckii QS306. This study provided a convenient method for the discovery and identification of new ACE inhibitory peptides.

Development of a Fermented Beverage with Chlorella vulgaris Powder on Soybean-Based Fermented Beverage.

The area of functional beverages made from plant-based or non-dairy milk is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world. The microalgae Chlorella vulgaris is a source of functional ingredients, with a large spectrum of healthy compounds, such as canthaxanthins, astaxanthins, peptides, and oleic acid. The study aimed to investigate the suitability of C. vulgaris biomass as a substrate for Lactobacillus fermentum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus development and fermentation in vegetal soy beverages and to evaluate the fermented product in terms of bacterial viability, antioxidant capacity, and in vitro bio-accessibility. During fermentation, a bacterial concentration of 8.74 log10 CFU/mL was found in the soy beverage with C. vulgaris and L. rhamnosus, and 8.71 log10 CFU/mL in beverage with C. vulgaris and L. fermentum. Polyphenol content and dietary antioxidant capacity significantly improved after fermentation soy drinks. On the other hand, through the digestibility of the beverages, the bacterial viability significantly decreased. To comprehend the components responsible for the efficient delivery of bacteria across the gastrointestinal tract, further investigation is required on probiotic encapsulation methods.

Consumption of a fermented dairy beverage improves hippocampal-dependent relational memory in a randomized, controlled cross-over trial.

Objectives: We aimed to determine whether consumption of a fermented dairy beverage containing probiotic microorganisms influences negative mood states, stress, and hippocampal memory performance in healthy adults. Methods: Adults (25-45 yrs, N = 26) free of gastrointestinal and mental illness were enrolled in a single-blind, randomized, controlled, crossover trial. Participants completed testing prior to and after 4-week consumption, with a 2-4 week washout between treatments of: (1) 8 oz of a dairy-based fermented beverage containing 25-30 billion colony forming units of live and active kefir cultures or (2) 8 oz isocaloric, non-fermented, 1% low-fat lactose-free dairy-based control beverage. Hippocampal-dependent relational memory was assessed using a spatial reconstruction task. Negative mood states of depression and anxiety were assessed using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-42 (DASS-42). Pooled 24-hour urine samples were analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to determine urinary free-cortisol (UFC) concentrations. Fecal microbiota composition was assessed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Results: Lactobacillus was increased by 235% following fermented dairy consumption compared to the control (p < .01). Furthermore, the fermented dairy beverage improved performance on two metrics of relational memory, misplacement (p = .04) and object-location binding (p = .03). UFC and DASS-42 scores (all p's > .08) were not significantly changed by either arm of the intervention. No correlations were observed between the change in Lactobacillus and memory performance. Conclusions: Fermented dairy consumption increased the presence of certain microorganisms in the gut and improved relational memory in healthy adults. However, the benefits observed for relational memory were not related to changes in Lactobacillus.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02849275.

"Masato de Yuca" and "Chicha de Siete Semillas" Two Traditional Vegetable Fermented Beverages from Peru as Source for the Isolation of Potential Probiotic Bacteria.

In this work, two Peruvian beverages "Masato de Yuca," typical of the Amazonian communities made from cassava (Manihot esculenta), and "Chicha de Siete Semillas," made from different cereal, pseudo-cereal, and legume flours, were explored for the isolation of lactic acid bacteria after obtaining the permission of local authorities following Nagoya protocol. From an initial number of 33 isolates, 16 strains with different RAPD- and REP-PCR genetic profiles were obtained. In Chicha, all strains were Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum), whereas in Masato, in addition to this species, Limosilactobacillus fermentum (formerly Lactobacillus fermentum), Pediococcus acidilactici, and Weissella confusa were also identified. Correlation analysis carried out with their carbohydrate fermentation patterns and enzymatic profiles allowed a clustering of the lactobacilli separated from the other genera. Finally, the 16 strains were submitted to a static in vitro digestion (INFOGEST model) that simulated the gastrointestinal transit. Besides, their ability to adhere to the human epithelial intestinal cell line HT29 was also determined. Following both procedures, the best probiotic candidate was Lac. plantarum Ch13, a robust strain able to better face the challenging conditions of the gastrointestinal tract and showing higher adhesion ability to the intestinal epithelium in comparison with the commercial probiotic strain 299v. In order to characterize its benefit for human health, this Ch13 strain will be deeply studied in further works.

Phages Shape Microbial Dynamics and Metabolism of a Model Community Mimicking Cider, a Fermented Beverage.

Model microbial communities are often studied to better understand interactions and fluxes during fermentation processes. However, models that take into account the potential impact of bacteriophages (phages), which are recognized as drivers of microbial communities, are scarce, especially in fermented foods. This study aimed at investigating the behavior of a cider model microbial community, which was subjected to disturbance in the presence or absence of phages and at two different temperatures (25 °C and 15 °C). The model microbial community was composed of three lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains belonging to the species Liquorilactobacillus mali, Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Oenococcus oeni, and of a Saccharomyces uvarum yeast strain. Two phages were selected, targeting L. mali and Ln. mesenteroides strains. In order to follow the behavior of the microbial community model, the phages and microbial strains were enumerated at several time points, and the metabolic signatures (sugar consumption, production of organic acids and volatile organic compounds) of the model microbial community were monitored. At 25 °C, the community with phages (P) was significantly closer to the control condition (C) than to the condition without phages (D). Microbial levels were similar between conditions C and P, which were characterized by high concentrations of compounds such as 2-phenylethanol, ethyl octanoate and isoamyl alcohol, and more globally by a more complex metabolic signature than that of condition D. In condition D, L. mali and Ln. mesenteroides were dominant while S. uvarum and O. oeni were less present, and this condition was characterized by a high concentration of ethyl lactate. At 15 °C, condition P differed from conditions C and D, as Ln. mesenteroides was not detected while the other strains all reached approximately the same levels. The metabolic range of condition P was less important than for conditions C and D. The current study showed that the influence of phages on the model microbial community dynamics and metabolisms after a disturbance phenomenon was temperature-dependent.

[Technological features of fermented beverages production using kombucha].

Kombucha is a beverage made by fermenting sweetened brewed tea (substrate) by symbiotic culture of yeast and bacteria. Numerous researches on optimization of fermentation process, determination of the influence of technological factors on physical and chemical properties, formation of taste and flavor profile of the beverages, prevention of industrial product risks are due to the growing popularity of kombucha in Europe and the USA. Technological features of kombucha production are to optimize conditions for the growth of symbiotic culture and substrate fermentation. The duration of the process depends on the composition of the substrate, the ratio of tea mushroom and substrate, temperature, size and shape of fermentation vessel. The aim of the work was to generalize the results of studying the technological features of the production of fermented kombucha type beverages and to identify the factors that affect the chemical composition and safety of the finished beverages. Material and methods. Analytical research was carried out on the main databases for the keyword "kombucha". The criteria for inclusion of articles in the analysis were research articles with open access and presenting detailed technology of kombucha. Results. The technology of kombucha production is based on fermentation of the substrate and obtaining the base of the beverage with high content of organic acids, mainly acetic acid. In order to ensure microbiological safety the acetic acid concentration in the beverage base must be at least 1.2%. The high organic acid content necessitates the use of only glass or stainless steel fermentation equipment approved for food contact. The fermentation temperature ranges from 18 to 32 °C. The fermentation process is monitored according to basic criteria: temperature, pH value, acidity, acetic acid content, ethyl alcohol content, and residual sugar content. Kombucha production process is connected with microbiological, chemical and physical risks which could appear in case of using low quality raw materials, equipment and consumer packaging made of materials which do not correspond to sanitary norms, violating technological regimes, storage conditions of raw materials and ready production. To prevent hazards affecting the quality and safety of the finished product, it is necessary to control the technological process at all stages of production. Conclusion. Following sanitary-hygienic norms and technological regimes allows producing kombucha with a balanced taste and aroma, which meets the safety requirements for fermented beverages.

Evaluation of potentially probiotic yeasts and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum in co-culture for the elaboration of a functional plant-based fermented beverage.

This work aimed to evaluate the performance of co-cultivation of potential probiotic yeast and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in producing plant-based fermented beverages. The co-culture comprised LAB Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CCMA0743 with the yeasts Pichia kluyveri CCMA 0615, Pichia guilliermondii CCMA 1753 and Debaryomyces hansenii CCMA 1761 separately. The plant substrate was 75 g oat, 175 g sunflower seeds, and 75 g almonds. The viability of microorganisms in the plant-based matrix was evaluated during fermentation, storage at 4 °C, and under simulated gastrointestinal tract (GIT) conditions. Chemical analysis, antioxidant activity, and sensory profile of the beverages were also determined. The three yeasts and the LAB showed counts greater than 6.0 log CFU/mL after fermentation, and the plant-based matrix protected the yeasts during simulated digestion. P. kluyveri and D. hansenii showed higher survival than P. guilliermondii and L. plantarum after exposure to simulated GIT conditions. The pH of the plant-based matrix reduced from approximately 7 to 3.8. Lactic acid was the main organic acid produced during fermentation. In addition, 113 volatile compounds were detected by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), including alcohols, aldehydes, alkanes, alkenes, acids, ester, ether, ketones, phenol, and amides. The beverage sensory profile varied with the co-culture. The co-culture D. hansenii and L. plantarum showed higher antioxidant activity than the other co-culture tested, and the homogeneous texture attribute characterized the beverage produced with this combination. Results show the suitability of tested co-cultures to produce a plant-based fermented beverage and indicate more significant potential for D. hansenii and L. plantarum co-culture as a starter for its functionalization.

Microbiological and physicochemical characterization of a traditionally fermented corn product: "Champús" / Caracterización microbiológica y fisicoquímica de un producto de maíz tradicionalmente fermentado "Champús"

Background: Many native fermented foods in Latin America are made by indigenous communities through processes that preserve their traditions. Among these products is champús, a fermented drink or dessert native to Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It has a characteristic flavor between sweet and sour with a low alcohol content, is made from cereals such as corn, wheat, or a mixture of these, and can include fruits and spices. Objectives: This research evaluated the microbiological, physicochemical, and sensory quality characteristics of champús to revalue the consumption of traditional foods. Methods: For this purpose, the microbiological safety criteria, fermenting microorganisms, and physicochemical and sensory parameters were evaluated for two batches of champús prepared by five producers and taking samples at different stages. Results: It was found that the average temperature and relative humidity for processing were between 16.5 ± 2.56 °C and 61.6 ± 9.14 %, respectively, and the products exceeded microbiological criteria such as total coliforms and some microbiological criteria for Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. There was also a high prevalence of lactic acid bacteria and yeasts throughout the process, with the occurrence of the genera Weissella, Leuconostoc, and Lactobacillus. The presence of organic acids (lactic, acetic, and propionic) and ethanol was evidenced. Champús seems to be a source of calcium, phosphorus, and free amino acids. Conclusions: This information provides a basis to propose improvement plans for small producers and, at the same time, to conduct more detailed studies on the native microbiota of champús

Antecedentes: Muchos de los alimentos nativos fermentados de América Latina son elaborados por las comunidades indígenas mediante procesos que preservan sus tradiciones. Entre estos productos se encuentra el "champús", una bebida o postre fermentado originario de Colombia, Ecuador y Perú. Presenta un sabor característico entre dulce y ácido con un bajo contenido de alcohol, está elaborado a base de cereales como maíz, trigo o la mezcla de estos, y puede llevar entre sus ingredientes frutas y especias. Objetivo: Esta investigación evaluó las características de calidad microbiológica, fisicoquímica y sensorial del champús para revalorizar el consumo de los alimentos tradicionales. Métodos: Se evaluaron criterios de seguridad microbiológica, microorganismos fermentadores, parámetros fisicoquímicos y sensoriales de dos lotes de champús elaborados por 5 productores, tomando muestras en diferentes etapas de proceso. Resultados: Como resultados, se encontró que la temperatura y la humedad relativa promedio de elaboración estuvieron entre 16,5 ± 2,56 °C y 61,6 ± 9,14 % y que los productos superaron los criterios microbiológicos como coliformes totales y algunos criterios microbiológicos como Escherichia coli y Staphylococcus aureus. También hubo una alta prevalencia de bacterias lácticas y levaduras a lo largo del proceso, identificándose los géneros Weissella, Leuconostoc y Lactobacillus. Se evidenció la presencia de ácidos orgánicos (láctico, acético y propiónico) y de etanol. El champús parece ser una fuente de calcio, fósforo y aminoácidos libres. Conclusión: Esta información sirve de base para proponer planes de mejora para los pequeños productores y al mismo tiempo para realizar estudios más detallados sobre la microbiota nativa del champús.

Molecular approaches to uncover phage-lactic acid bacteria interactions in a model community simulating fermented beverages.

Food microbial diversity and fluxes during the fermentation processes are well studied whereas phages-bacteria interactions are still poorly described in the literature. This is especially true in fermented beverages, and especially in cider, which is an alcoholic fermented apple beverage. The transcriptomic and proteomic responses of the lactic acid bacterium (LAB) Liquorilactobacillus mali UCMA 16447 to a lytic infection by phage UCMA 21115, both isolated from cider, were investigated, in order to get a better understanding of phages-bacteria interactions in such fermented beverage. During phage infection, 122 and 215 genes were differentially expressed in L. mali UCMA 16447 strain at T15 and T60 respectively, when compared to the uninfected condition. The same trends were confirmed by the proteomic study, with a total of 28 differentially expressed proteins found at T60. Overall, genes encoding cellular functions, such as carbohydrate metabolism, translation, and signal transduction, were downregulated, while genes involved in nucleotide metabolism and in the control of DNA integrity were upregulated in response to phage infection. This work also highlighted that phage infection repressed many genes involved in bacterial cell motility, and affected glycolysis.

Production of plant-based fermented beverages possessing functional ingredients antioxidant, γ-aminobutyric acid and antimicrobials using a probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strain L42g as an efficient starter culture.

Plant-based probiotic beverages have gained increasing interest due to demand from health-conscious consumers. In this study, we aimed to isolate and screen lactic acid bacteria possessing functional properties for use as a starter culture of fermented almond and coix beverages. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum L42g isolated from fermented beef was selected. Both intact cells and cell free supernatant of this strain exhibited high antioxidant activity based on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging at 38.2% and 44.9%, respectively. L. plantarum L42g grown in MRS broth supplemented with 1% (w v-1) monosodium glutamate (MSG) produced a large amount of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at 496.7 µg mL-1. Moreover, strain L42g displayed remarkable antibacterial activity against several potential foodborne bacterial pathogens, including Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes, Listeria inocua, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium, Shigella sp., Vibrio cholerae and Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Strain L42g also possessed additional probiotic properties including abilities to tolerate gastrointestinal conditions, adhere to gut mucosa, co-aggregate with pathogens, be susceptible to antibiotics, and produce protease. Probiotic strain L42g was subsequently employed in fermenting almond and coix juices containing MSG (1%) supplementation. Levels of antioxidant, GABA and antibacterial formation along with cell growth were clearly higher in fermented almond juice than in fermented coix juice. Nonetheless, both fermented almond and coix juices meet the standards required for the consumption of fermented beverages. Therefore, L. plantarum strain L42g represents a promising starter culture for producing functional plant-based probiotic beverages.

Inulin addition improved probiotic survival in soy-based fermented beverage.

Currently, the growing demand for non-dairy functional foods leads to the constant development of new products. The objective of the present work was to obtain a soy-based fermented beverage employing the strains Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CIDCA 8327 or Lacticaseibacillus paracasei BGP1 and to analyze the effect of post-fermentation addition of inulin of low or high average polymerization degree on the bacterial resistance. Also, the antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of the fermented soy-based beverages were analyzed. The soy-based matrix was shown to be a suitable substrate for the growth of both lactic acid bacteria, and the fermented beverages obtained presented bioactive properties such us antioxidant activity and bactericidal effect against pathogen microorganisms. The addition of inulin after the fermentation process avoid the hydrolysis and so, preserve its polymerization degree and thus the potential prebiotic effect. The incorporation of inulin to the soy-based fermented beverages increased the bacterial count after 30 days of refrigerated storage up to 8.71 ± 0.15 and 8.41 ± 0.10 log CFU/mL for L. paracasei and L. planatrum respectively. The resistance to the gastrointestinal conditions of the strain L. paracasei BGP1 in the fermented beverage was improved up to 70% when inulin of high polymerization degree was added. Meanwhile the strain L. plantarum CIDCA 8327 showed a survival of 97 and 94% in the fermented beverage added with inulin of low or high polymerization degree, respectively. These results contribute to the development of non-dairy products containing inulin and probiotics and the diversification agri-based functional foods.

Microbial community structure, physicochemical characteristics and predictive functionalities of the Mexican tepache fermented beverage.

Tepache is a native beverage from Mexico, which is usually elaborated with pineapple shells, brown cane sugar and is fermented naturally. Beneficial health effects have been attributed to its consumption; however, the total ecosystem of this beverage including chemicals (substrates for microbial growth, prebiotics, etc) and microbiota (probiotics), and potential functionality had not been studied. In this work, the analysis of the tepache beverage for its physicochemical characteristics, as well as its structure of microbial communities and the predictive metabolic functionalities was carried out. Chemical characterization was performed via enzymatic and GC-MS methods. The bacterial and fungal communities were identified by using 16S rRNA and ITS metabarcoding through Illumina MiSeq 2 × 300. The metabolic potential was predicted by in silico tools. This research showed that after 72 h of fermentation, the tepache physicochemical characteristics shifted to 9.5 Brix degrees and acidic pH. The content of ethanol, acetic and L-lactic acid increased significantly from 0.83 ± 0.02 to 3.39 ± 0.18 g/L, from 0.38 ± 0.04 to 0.54 ± 0.04 g/L and from 1.42 ± 0.75 to 8.77 ± 0.34 g/L, respectively. While, the total sugars was decreased from 123.43 ± 2.01 to 84.70 ± 2.34 g/L. The microbial diversity analysis showed a higher richness of bacterial communities and increased fungal evenness at the end of fermentation. At 72 h of fermentation the microbial community was dominated by Lactobacillus, Leuconostoc, Acetobacter and Lactococcus bacterial genera. As for the fungal community, Saccharomyces, Gibberella, Zygosaccharomyces, Candida, Meyerozyma, Talaromyces, Epicoccum and Kabatiella were found to be in most abundance. The predicted functionality profile evidenced a close-fitting relationship between fungal communities at 0 h with the bacterial communities at 72 h of fermentation. The metabolic potential showed that glycolysis and citrate cycle metabolism were predominant for fungal community, while glycolysis, fructose and tricarboxylic acid metabolism were more representative for the bacterial core. Tepache fermentation mainly occurred at two temporal successions. First, a lactic acid and ethanol fermentation dominated by lactic acid bacteria and yeast, and then an increase in acetogenic bacteria. This study revealed for the first time the physicochemical, microbiological changes and predictive functionality that are involved during tepache fermentation. These findings contributed to the knowledge of important microbial sources and could be essential to future efforts in manufacturing process. In addition, this work could help to analyze the health benefits that are empirically attributed to it by consumers.

MALDI-TOF MS profiling and exopolysaccharide production properties of lactic acid bacteria from Kunu-zaki - A cereal-based Nigerian fermented beverage.

MALDI-TOF MS is a technique for high-throughput characterization of foodborne microbiota, however, its application for studying African traditional fermented foods is limited. A total of 164 out of 220 lactic acid bacterial (LAB) isolates from Kunu-zaki were identified using MALDI-TOF MS, with 100% identity of representative strains compared to 16S rRNA gene sequencing. MALDI-TOF MS profiling combined with 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed a total of 15 LAB species in Kunu-zaki, where the most predominant species were Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (40.46%), Weissella confusa (27.27%), and Pediococcus pentosaceus (15.00%). Phenotypic screening of all isolates revealed strains of W. confusa (57), Lactiplantibacillus sp. (9), Companilactobacillus musae (1), Ligilactobacillus saerimneri (1) and Leuconostoc citreum (1) that are capable of producing dextran and/or fructan. Dextransucrase genes were detected in all EPS-producing strains by PCR. Weissella confusa YKDIA1 and YKDIA4 produced 11.93 and 11.70 g/L dextran from millet-sorghum flour hydrolysate-sucrose, respectively. Kunu-zaki produced using W. confusa YKDIA1 had high water holding capacity (100%) and viscosity ranging from 49.46-139.24 mPas. In this study, MALDI-TOF MS adequately revealed the LAB species composition in Kunu-zaki in a high-throughput strategy and further, the dominant occurrence of EPS-producing LAB strains and their potentials to influence the rheological properties of Kunu-zaki were demonstrated.