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© 2025 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). Notwithstanding the ProQuest Terms and Conditions, you may use this content in accordance with the terms of the License.

Abstract

Microbial fermentation is a primary method by which a variety of foods and beverages are produced. The term refers to the use of microbes such as bacteria, yeasts, and molds to transform carbohydrates into different substances. Fermentation is important for preserving, enhancing flavor, and improving the nutritional quality of various perishable foods. Historical records clearly show that fermented foods and drinks, such as wine, beer, and bread, have been consumed for more than 7000 years. The main microorganisms employed were Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which are predominantly used in alcohol fermentation, and Lactobacillus in dairy and vegetable fermentation. Typical fermented foods and drinks made from yogurt, cheese, beer, wine, cider, and pickles from vegetables are examples. Although there are risks of contamination and spoilage by pathogenic and undesirable microorganisms, advanced technologies and proper control procedures can mitigate these risks. This review addresses microbial fermentation and clarifies its past importance and contribution to food preservation, flavoring, and nutrition. It systematically separates yeasts, molds, and bacteria and explains how they are used in food products such as bread, yogurt, beer, and pickles. Larger producers employ primary production methods such as the artisanal approach, which are explored along with future trends such as solid-state fermentation, the potential of biotechnology in developing new products, and sustainability in new product development. Future research and development strategies can lead to innovations in methods that improve efficiency, product range, and sustainability.

Details

Title
Microbial Fermentation in Food and Beverage Industries: Innovations, Challenges, and Opportunities
Author
Mallari Praveen 1   VIAFID ORCID Logo  ; Brogi, Simone 2   VIAFID ORCID Logo 

 Department of Research and Development, Academy of Bioelectric Meridian Massage Australia (ABMMA), Noosaville, QLD 4566, Australia; [email protected] 
 Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy 
First page
114
Publication year
2025
Publication date
2025
Publisher
MDPI AG
e-ISSN
23048158
Source type
Scholarly Journal
Language of publication
English
ProQuest document ID
3153584947
Copyright
© 2025 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). Notwithstanding the ProQuest Terms and Conditions, you may use this content in accordance with the terms of the License.