Synergistic microbial interactions between lactic acid bacteria and yeasts during production of Nigerian indigenous fermented foods and beverages

Abstract

Fermented foods and beverages are mainly consumed by the indigenous people of Africa and other developing countries. Traditional fermentation is an age-long means of preserving perishable foods especially when other methods of preservation are not available and/or not consistent. The main beneficial microorganisms that are responsible for the fermentation of African indigenous fermented foods and beverages are lactic acid bacteria and yeasts which may be present as microflora on the substrates or added as starter cultures. The understanding of the synergistic interaction between these microorganisms in the fermented food matrices result in improved nutrient availability, food quality, palatability, organoleptic properties, increased shelf life, safety, digestibility and also play beneficial roles in modulating host immune system thereby minimizing the risk of certain diseases.