LEUCONOSTOC MESENTEROIDES

Description

Leuconostoc mesenteroides is a Gram-positive, facultatively anaerobic, spherical or oval-shaped lactic acid bacterium commonly found in fermented foods, plants, and dairy products. It plays a crucial role in food fermentation due to its ability to produce lactic acid and carbon dioxide, contributing to flavor and texture.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Produces lactic acid and carbon dioxide, which help preserve food and create desirable textures (e.g., in sauerkraut, kimchi, and sourdough)
• Produces dextrans and other exopolysaccharides, improving the viscosity and mouthfeel of fermented products
• Involved in heterofermentation, generating multiple fermentation products including lactic acid, ethanol/acetic acid, and CO₂
• Used as a starter culture in vegetable and dairy fermentations

Applications:

Leuconostoc mesenteroides is essential in traditional food fermentations, enhancing flavor, texture, and shelf life while contributing to the probiotic qualities of fermented foods.