Taste Of Final Product Research Articles

In this study, a new method for extending storage-life and palatability of Betula platyphylla sap by applying lactic acid bacteria fermentation was developed. The fluids of saps were filtered through 0.22 ㎛ membrane filter and each fermented by 8 different lactic acid bacteria which are Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus brevis, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, Leuconostoc lactis, Lactococcus lactis, Pediocossus pentosaceus, Pediococcus dextrinicus, Streptococcus thermophilus. All the tested lactic acid bacteria except P. dextrinicus grew fast up to 10?~10? cfu/mL levels and lowered pH down to about pH 4 levels in 48 hours in both saps. The produced organic acids and lowered pH level inhibited the growth of spoilage microorganisms almost completely for 2 weeks during storage at room temperature. Addition of xylitol in the saps before fermentation accelerated the growth of lactic acid bacteria and increased the sweetness and overall taste of final product. The filtration process did not affect the mineral compositions of Betula platyphylla saps. Also the compositions and amounts of minerals showed very minor differences before and after fermentation in Betula platyphylla saps inoculated with L. acidophilus. By applying lactic acid fermentation to extend storage-life of tree saps instead of heat treatment, it was possible to keep natural minerals in active forms without any modifications.

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