Fermentation of quinoa and wheat slurries by Lactobacillus plantarum CRL 778: proteolytic activity

Effect of Microsphere Concentration on Catechin Release from Microneedle Arrays

In this work, microspheres were developed by cross-linking glutaraldehyde in an aqueous gelatin solution with a surfactant and solvent. A poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) solution was produced and combined with catechin-loaded microspheres. Different microsphere concentrations (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%) were applied to the PVA microneedles. The moisture content, particle size, swelling, and drug release percentage of microneedles were studied using various microsphere concentrations. Fourier transform infrared and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigations validated the structure of gelatin microspheres as well as their decoration in microneedles. The SEM scans revealed that spherical microspheres with a wrinkled and folded morphology were created, with no physical holes visible on the surface. The gelatin microspheres generated had a mean particle size of 20-30 μm. Ex vivo release analysis indicated that microneedles containing 10% microspheres released the most catechin, with 42.9% at 12 h and 84.4% at 24 h.

Woodfordia fruticosa fermented with lactic acid bacteria impact on foodborne pathogens adhesion and cytokine production in HT-29 cells

Introduction

The study into the interplay between foodborne pathogens and human health, particularly their effects on intestinal cells, is crucial. The importance of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in promoting a healthy balance of gut microbiota, inhibiting harmful bacteria, and supporting overall gastrointestinal health is becoming more apparent.

Methods

Our study delved into the impact of fermenting Woodfordia fruticosa (WF), a plant known for its antimicrobial properties against gastrointestinal pathogens, with LAB. We focused on the influence of this fermentation process on the binding of foodborne pathogens to the gut lining and cytokine production, aiming to enhance gut health and control foodborne infections in HT-29 cells.

Results and discussion

Post-fermentation, the WF exhibited improved antimicrobial effects when combined with different LAB strains. Remarkably, the LAB-fermented WF (WFLC) substantially decreased the attachment of pathogens such as L. monocytogenes (6.87%  ±  0.33%) and V. parahaemolyticus (6.07%  ±  0.50%) in comparison to the unfermented control. Furthermore, WFLC was found to upregulate IL-6 production in the presence of pathogens like E. coli O157:H7 (10.6%) and L. monocytogenes (19%), suggesting it may activate immune responses. Thus, LAB-fermented WF emerges as a potential novel strategy for fighting foodborne pathogens, although additional studies are warranted to thoroughly elucidate WF's phytochemical profile and its contribution to these beneficial outcomes.

Screening of probiotic Lactobacillus to reduce peanut allergy and with potential anti-allergic activity

BACKGROUND

Peanut is a significant source of nutrition and a valuable oilseed crop. It is also a serious allergy source, which poses a threat to 1.1% of the population. This study aimed to screen lactic acid bacteria (LAB) with the capacity to alleviate peanut allergenicity and exhibit anti-allergic properties.

RESULT

The results show that LAB can make use of substances in peanuts to reduce the pH of peanut milk from 6.603 to 3.593-4.500 by acid production and that it can utilize the protein in peanuts to reduce the allergenic content (especially Ara h 1) and improve biological activity in peanut pulp. The content of Ara h 1 peanut-sensitizing protein was reduced by 74.65% after fermentation. The protein extracted from fermented peanut pulp is more readily digestible by gastrointestinal juices. The inhibitory activity assay of hyaluronidase (an enzyme with strong correlation to allergy) increased from 46.65% to a maximum of 90.57% to reveal that LAB fermentation of peanut pulp exhibited a robust anti-allergic response.

CONCLUSION

The strains identified in this study exhibited the ability to mitigate peanut allergenicity partially and to possess potential anti-allergic properties. Lactobacillus plantarum P1 and Lactobacillus salivarius C24 were identified as the most promising strains and were selected for further research. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Rapid Acidification and Off-Flavor Reduction of Pea Protein by Fermentation with Lactic Acid Bacteria and Yeasts

Pea protein is widely used as an alternative protein source in plant-based products. In the current study, we fermented pea protein to reduce off-flavor compounds, such as hexanal, and to produce a suitable fermentate for further processing. Laboratory fermentations using 5% (w/v) pea protein suspension were carried out using four selected lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains, investigating their growth and acidification capabilities in pea protein. Rapid acidification of pea protein was achieved with Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis strain LTH 7123. Next, this strain was co-inoculated together with either the yeasts Kluyveromyces lactis LTH 7165, Yarrowia lipolytica LTH 6056, or Kluyveromyces marxianus LTH 6039. Fermentation products of the mixed starter cultures and of the single strains were further analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry to quantify selected volatile flavor compounds. Fermentation with L. lactis LTH 7123 led to an increase in compounds associated with the "beany" off-flavors of peas, including hexanal. However, significant reduction in those compounds was achieved after fermentation with Y. lipolytica LTH 6056 with or without L. lactis LTH 7123. Thus, fermentation using co-cultures of LAB and yeasts strains could prove to be a valuable method for enhancing quality attributes of pea protein-based products.

Impacts of Solid-State Fermented Barley with Fibrolytic Exogenous Enzymes on Feed Utilization, and Antioxidant Status of Broiler Chickens

The present and future high demand of common cereals as corn and wheat encourage the development of feed processing technology that allows for the dietary inclusion of other cereals of low nutritional value in poultry feeding. Barley grains contain anti-nutritional factors that limit their dietary inclusion in the poultry industry. The treatment of barley with solid-state fermentation and exogenous enzymes (FBEs) provides a good alternative to common cereals. In this study, barley grains were subjected to solid-state microbial fermentation using Lactobacillus plantarum, Bacillus subtilis and exogenous fibrolytic enzymes. This study aimed to assess the impact of FBEs on growth, feed utilization efficiency, immune modulation, antioxidant status and the expression of intestinal barrier and nutrient transporter-related genes. One-day-old broiler chicks (Ross 308, n = 400) comprised four representative groups with ten replicates (10 chicks/replicate) and were fed corn-soybean meal basal diets with inclusions of FBEs at 0, 5, 10 and 15% for 38 days. Solid-state fermentation of barley grains with fibrolytic enzymes increased protein content, lowered crude fiber and reduced sugars compared to non-fermented barley gains. In consequence, the group fed FBEs10% had the superior feed utilization efficiency and body weight gain (increased by 4.7%) with higher levels of nutrient metabolizability, pancreatic digestive enzyme activities and low digesta viscosity. Notably, the group fed FBEs10% showed an increased villi height and a decreased crypt depth with a remarkable hyperactivity of duodenal glands. In addition, higher inclusion levels of FBEs boosted serum immune-related parameters and intestinal and breast muscle antioxidants status. Intestinal nutrient transporters encoding genes (GLUT-1, CAAT-1, LAT1 and PepT-1) and intestinal barriers encoding genes (MUC-2, JAM-2, occludin, claudins-1 and β-defensin 1) were upregulated with higher dietary FBEs levels. In conclusion, feeding on FBEs10% positively enhanced broiler chickens' performance, feed efficiency and antioxidant status, and boosted intestinal barrier nutrient transporters encoding genes.

Heat treatment of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) albumin: Effect on structural, functional, and in vitro digestion properties

Quinoa seeds are rich in protein, polyphenols, phytosterols, and flavonoid substances, and excellent amino acid balance that has been revisited recently as a new food material showing potential applied in fitness and disease prevention. Heat treatment is one of the most effective strategies for improving the physiochemical characteristics of a protein. However, research examining the effects of temperature on quinoa albumin (QA) properties is limited. In this study, QA was subjected to thermal treatment (50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, and 121°C). SDS−PAGE revealed that QA is composed of several polypeptides in the 10−40 kDa range. Amino acid (AA) analysis showed that the branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), negatively charged amino acid residues (NCAAs), and positively charged amino acids (PCAAs) contents of QA were more than double that of the FAO/WHO reference standard. Additionally, heating induced structural changes, including sulfhydryl-disulfide interchange and the exposure of hydrophobic groups. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that the albumin underwent denaturation, dissociation, and aggregation during heating. Moreover, moderate heat treatment (60, 70, and 80°C) remarkably improved the functional properties of QA, enhancing its solubility, water (oil) holding capacity, and emulsification and foaming characteristics. However, heating also reduced the in vitro digestibility of QA. Together, these results indicate that heat treatment can improve the structural and functional properties of QA. This information has important implications for optimizing quinoa protein production, and various products related to quinoa protein could be developed. which provides the gist of commercial applications of quinoa seeds for spreading out in the marketplace.

Recent Developments in Fermented Cereals on Nutritional Constituents and Potential Health Benefits

Fermentation is one of the most economical and safe methods to improve the nutritional value, sensory quality and functional characteristics of raw materials, and it is also an important method for cereal processing. This paper reviews the effects of microbial fermentation on cereals, focusing on their nutritional value and health benefits, including the effects of fermentation on the protein, starch, phenolic compounds contents, and other nutrient components of cereals. The bioactive compounds produced by fermented cereals have positive effects on health regulation. Finally, the future market development of fermented cereal products is summarized and prospected.

Preparation and evaluation of Quinoa-Kishk as a novel functional fermented dairy product

Quinoa is gaining more attention throughout the world because of its high nutritional, antioxidant and antimicrobial impacts. This study aimed to develop a novel functional Kishk prepared from wheat burghul replacement with quinoa seeds at 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% levels. Changes in chemical, microbial, and sensory properties were followed during storage at room temperature for 3 months. The obtained results revealed that Kishk samples fortified with quinoa seeds had higher protein (17.18-18.37%), fat (3.00-5.99%), ash (6.64-8.01%) and fiber (1.32-2.05%) compared to control sample (16.52, 2.82, 6.00 and 1.18%), respectively for fresh samples. Furthermore, incorporation of quinoa into Kishk formulations improved amino acid profile, mineral contents, antioxidant activity and total phenols. However, addition of quinoa affected the color attributes and significant decreases in L* and b* values were noticed compared to control sample. During the storage period, overall bacterial and lactic acid bacteria counts for all samples were reduced. Coliform, mould and yeast counts of all fresh samples were less than 10 CFU/g and not detected throughout the storage. Sensory evaluation results revealed that Kishk fortified with 50% quinoa seeds exhibited good sensory properties. Therefore, fortification with quinoa could improve nutritional and functional properties of fermented dairy products.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13197-021-05110-8.

Recent updates on lentil and quinoa protein-based dairy protein alternatives: Nutrition, technologies, and challenges

Due to its high nutritional value and increasing consumption trends, plant-based proteins were used in a variety of dietary products, either in their entirety or as partial substitutions. There is indeed a growing need to produce plant-based proteins as alternatives to dairy-based proteins that have good functional properties, high nutritional values, and high protein digestibility. Among the plant-based proteins, both lentil and quinoa proteins received a lot of attention in recent years as dairy-based protein alternatives. To ensure plant-based proteins a success in food applications, food industries and researchers need to have a comprehensive scientific understanding of these proteins. The demand for proteins is highly dependent on several factors, mainly functional properties, nutritional values, and protein digestibility. Fermentation and protein complexation are recognised to be suitable techniques in enhancing the functional properties, nutritional values, and protein digestibility of these plant-based proteins, making them potential alternatives for dairy-based proteins.

Effect of Extrusion or Fermentation on Physicochemical and Digestive Properties of Barley Powder

In this work, the effect of extrusion and fermentation on the physicochemical and digestive properties of barley powder was studied. The results showed that the contents of phenolics, β-glucan, protein, and lipid decreased after extrusion. The contents of nutrients (except lipid) increased after fermentation. Both extrusion and fermentation of barley can lead to the darkening of the color and effectively optimize the palatability by reducing the viscosity. In vitro digestion of starch showed that the content of as rapidly digestible starch increased after extrusion and fermentation. The contents of ferulic acid, 2-hydroxybenzoic acid, and caffeic acid decreased after extrusion, while the contents of chlorogenic acid, p-coumaric acid, and ferulic acid increased after fermentation. Basically, the content of all the phenolic showed an increasing trend after digestion. The antioxidant activity decreased after extrusion and increased after fermentation. Therefore, the nutritional composition and properties of barley powder were changed under the two processing methods.

Trends in functional food development with three-dimensional (3D) food printing technology: prospects for value-added traditionally processed food products

One of the recent, innovative, and digital food revolutions gradually gaining acceptance is three-dimensional food printing (3DFP), an additive technique used to develop products, with the possibility of obtaining foods with complex geometries. Recent interest in this technology has opened the possibilities of complementing existing processes with 3DFP for better value addition. Fermentation and malting are age-long traditional food processes known to improve food value, functionality, and beneficial health constituents. Several studies have demonstrated the applicability of 3D printing to manufacture varieties of food constructs, especially cereal-based, from root and tubers, fruit and vegetables as well as milk and milk products, with potential for much more value-added products. This review discusses the extrusion-based 3D printing of foods and the major factors affecting the process development of successful edible 3D structures. Though some novel food products have emanated from 3DFP, considering the beneficial effects of traditional food processes, particularly fermentation and malting in food, concerted efforts should also be directed toward developing 3D products using substrates from these conventional techniques. Such experimental findings will significantly promote the availability of minimally processed, affordable, and convenient meals customized in complex geometric structures with enhanced functional and nutritional values.

Viscozyme L hydrolysis and Lactobacillus fermentation increase the phenolic compound content and antioxidant properties of aqueous solutions of quinoa pretreated by steaming with α-amylase

In this work, red quinoa was successively subjected to α-amylase steaming, complex enzyme Viscozyme (R) L hydrolysis, and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) fermentation. The total phenolic compound content (TPC), flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant capacities of the solvent-extractable (free) and bound fractions and the individual phenolic compounds released were determined. Compared to steaming with α-amylase, enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation of quinoa resulted in approximately 82.6, 26.9, 36.3, and 45.2% increases in the TPC (the sum of free and bound fractions), TFC, DPPH, and ORAC values, respectively. HPLC-QqQ-MS/MS analysis showed that enzymolysis and fermentation increased the content of protocatechuic acid, catechin, procyanidin B₂ , and quercetin by 126.3, 101.9, 524, and 296.3%, respectively. Moreover, a major proportion of individual phenolic compounds existed as bound form. The results indicated that complex enzymatic hydrolysis and LAB fermentation were practical and useful to release promising polyphenols. This research provides a basis for the processing of quinoa beverages rich in phenolic compounds. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: In this work, liquefying with α-amylase, hydrolyzing with cellulolytic enzyme mixture, and fermenting with Lactic acid bacteria (LAB), successively, were exploited to process quinoa. This is an innovative method of quinoa processing to produce beverage products. Complex enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation with LAB can significantly enhance phenolic compound, especially protocatechuic acid, catechin, procyanidin B₂ , and quercetin. In additional, LAB fermentation is very beneficial to improve the antioxidant activity of quinoa. We also found that a major proportion of phenolic compounds existed as bound forms in quinoa.

Sorghum Malt Extract as a Growth Medium for Lactic Acid Bacteria Cultures: A Case of Lactobacillus plantarum MNC 21

Cultivation of lactic acid bacteria cultures is vital for research and commercial production of fermented foods. However, the conventional growth media used are generally costly. Malt extracts from four sorghum varieties (SESO 1, SESO 3, Epuripur, and Eyera) were evaluated as alternative low-cost growth media for Lactobacillus plantarum MNC 21. Saccharified sorghum malt extracts were inoculated with 4 log cfu/mL MNC 21 and incubated at 30°C for 24 h. MRS broth was the reference medium. Microbial counts, pH, titratable acidity (TA), free amino nitrogen (FAN), and total sugars were measured. Maximum microbial counts in the extracts and MRS broth were 9 and 10 log cfu/mL, respectively. Maximum growth rate in the extracts was 0.7-0.9 log cfu/mL/h and 0.8 log cfu/mL/h in MRS broth. The final pH of the extracts was 3.5-3.6, with an overall increase in TA of 1.2% in Epuripur and 0.2% in other varieties. Final pH and TA of MRS broth were 4.1 and 1.3%, respectively. Total sugars dropped by 95.2% and FAN by 2.1% in MRS broth. In contrast, total sugars and FAN dropped by 5.6-9.1% and 24.9-32.7% respectively, in the extracts. Sorghum malt extracts can be adopted as alternative low-cost growth media for lactic acid bacteria cultures.

Effect of solid-state fermentation with Bacillus subtilis lwo on the proteolysis and the antioxidative properties of chickpeas

In this study, the solid-state fermentation (SSF) of chickpeas by using Bacillus subtilis lwo was performed to evaluate the effect of fermentation on the proteolysis and the antioxidative properties of chickpeas. The soluble protein, peptide, and free amino nitrogen contents; proteinase activity; degradation of protein; peptide profiles; and the antioxidant activities during fermentation were investigated. Results indicated that during the fermentation process, increasing the protease activity resulted in increased release of soluble proteins, peptides, and free amino nitrogen (FAN), which reached their maximum values (15.4 mg/g, 25.8 mg/g, and 1.03 g/100 g, respectively) at 48 h of fermentation. The electrophoretic profiles indicated that most chickpea proteins were degraded after fermentation for 24 h. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) indicated a decreased/disappearance of hydrophobic/large peptides and increased hydrophilic/small peptides. Moreover, the fermented chickpeas showed higher 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities than the unfermented chickpeas. These data suggested that the fermentation process by using B. subtilis lwo improved the proteolysis and the antioxidative activities of chickpeas. Thus, this method may provide a novel way to enhance the value of chickpeas, and the chickpeas fermented by B. subtilis lwo can be used in food industries.

Microbiological, Physicochemical, and Immunological Analysis of a Commercial Cashew Nut-Based Yogurt

Nut-based milks and yogurts are gaining popularity, but may not offer the same benefits as dairy yogurts to consumers. Cashew nuts often cause severe allergic reactions, and cashew nut allergens are stable to several types of processing. To compare its characteristics to dairy yogurt and characterize the effects of fermentation on the Ana o 1-3 cashew nut allergens, a commercial yogurt made from cashew nuts (Cashewgurt) was evaluated for microbiological, physiochemical, and immunological properties. Average counts for lactobacilli and Streptococcus thermophilus were greater than 10 million colony forming units per milliliter, indicating the capacity to provide a health benefit. Cashewgurt pH and viscosity values were comparable to cow milk yogurts, and it was off white in color. SDS-PAGE analysis indicated a clear reduction in Ana o 1 and 2, and immuno-assay with polyclonal anti-cashew IgG antibody and cashew-allergic IgE indicated an overall reduction in allergen content. In contrast, SDS-PAGE, mass spectrometry, immunoblot, and ELISA all revealed that Ana o 3 was relatively unaffected by the fermentation process. In conclusion, Ana o 1 and Ana o 2 are sensitive to degradation, while Ana o 3 survives lactic acid bacterial fermentation during yogurt production. The analysis presented here indicates that cashew nut yogurt is not suitable for those with cashew nut allergy.

Insights into the Potential of Sourdough-Related Lactic Acid Bacteria to Degrade Proteins in Wheat

Sourdough processing contributes to better digestible wheat-based bakery products, especially due to the proteolytic activity of lactic acid bacteria (LAB). Therefore, sourdough-related LAB were screened for their capacity to degrade immunogenic proteins like gluten and alpha-amylase-trypsin inhibitors (ATIs). Firstly, the growth of 87 isolates was evaluated on a gluten-based medium. Further, the breakdown capacity of selected isolates was determined for gluten with a focus on gliadins by measuring acidification parameters and MALDI-TOF MS protein profiles. ATI degradation after 72 h of incubation within an ATI-based medium was investigated by means of acidification, HPLC, and competitive ELISA. All isolates exhibited the potential to degrade ATIs to a high degree, whereas the gliadin degradation capacity varied more greatly among tested LAB, with Lacticaseibacillus paracasei Lpa4 exhibiting the strongest alterations of the gliadin pattern, followed by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Lpl5. ATI degradation capacities ranged from 52.3% to 85.0% by HPLC and 22.2% to 70.2% by ELISA, with Lacticaseibacillus paracasei Lpa4 showing superior breakdown properties. Hence, a selection of specific starter cultures can be used in sourdough processing for wheat-based bakery products with reduced gluten and ATI content and, further, better tolerated products for patients suffering from non-celiac wheat sensitivity (NCWS).

Teff Type-I Sourdough to Produce Gluten-Free Muffin

The increasing number of persons following a gluten-free (GF) diet and the need for healthy and natural products are forcing researchers and industries to provide gluten-free products with high nutritional value. Here, a biotechnological approach combining the use of teff flour and type-I sourdough has been proposed to produce GF muffins with nutritional benefits. Teff-sourdough was prepared and propagated following the traditional daily refreshment procedure until the biochemical stability was achieved. The sourdough, dominated by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Limosilactobacillus fermentum and Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains, was used to produce muffins at three different levels (up to 15%, wt/wt) of fortification, achieving several positive effects on the nutritional properties of the products. The use of teff flour led to high content of fiber (>3 g/100 g) and proteins (>6 g/100 g) in muffins achieving the nutritional requirements for the healthy claims "source of fiber" and "rich in protein". Thanks to their metabolic traits, sourdough lactic acid bacteria caused the increase of the total free amino acids (TFAA, up to 1000 mg/kg, final concentration) and phytic acid decrease (50% lower than control), which positively affect the nutritional properties of the products. Besides, high in vitro protein digestibility (IVPD, 79%) and low starch hydrolysis rate (HI, 52%) characterized the fortified muffins. Muffins also presented high in vitro antioxidant (56%) and mold-inhibitory activities, potentially contributing to an extended shelf-life of the products.

Utilisation of Quinoa for development of fermented beverages

Lactic acid fermentation of pseudocereals represents a useful tool for the preparation of value-added beverages with beneficial properties to consumers. The aim of this work was the development of a novel quinoa-based beverage fermented with commercially available probiotic culture including Bifidobacterium sp., Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Streptococcus thermophilus. The results concluded that fermentation of quinoa beverages significantly increased proteins and total phenolic content and antioxidation activity in the final products (by 36.84%, 26.67%, and 14.74%, respectively). In general, the overall acceptability of unfermented quinoa beverages was low (less than 46%), but the fermentation process slightly increased their acceptability (by 9.43%). A significant improvement of acceptability was observed, when the raspberry syrup was supplemented into the fermented beverages (by 90.98% compared to the no supplemented samples). Viability of fermenting microorganisms, pH, total acidity, and organic acid content were determined during the storage of beverages for 21 days at 5 °C. It was found that prepared quinoa beverages had a good probiotic potential (>6 CFU.mL-1 of lactic acid bacteria cocci). Furthermore, this study also showed that the quinoa represents a suitable raw material for formulation novel gluten and dairy-free fermented beverages with increased content of nutritionally important compounds.

Vegetable milk as probiotic and prebiotic foods

Vegetable milks are fast gaining attention on the global scale as the possible alternatives due to concerns associated with milk consumption. In particular, issues varying from allergenic constituents and lactose intolerance to social and religious beliefs among consumers have induced an increase in the market demand for vegetable milks. Their concomitant nutritional and bioactive components appraise them of the suitable profile for the food-based carriage and delivery of probiotics. More so, the presence of prebiotics in their natural configuration makes them serviceable for the assurance of the needed probiotic viability, subsequent to their exposure to digestive conditions. On another note, their availability, ease of processing, and cost-effectiveness have been established as other possible rationales behind their adoption. This chapter comprehensively delineates the probiotic and prebiotic food-usage of vegetable milks. Captions related with consumer concerns, processing operations, nutritional and prebiotic constitutions, metabolic interactions during probiotic fermentation, and associated health benefits of vegetable milks are discoursed.

Effect of Rice Flour Fermentation with Lactobacillus spicheri DSM 15429 on the Nutritional Features of Gluten-Free Muffins

Lactobacillus Spicheri DSM 15429 strain was used to ferment rice flour, aiming at exploiting its influence on the amino-acids, minerals, lactic acid, total phenols, and antioxidant activity of the rice sourdough and gluten-free muffins. Gluten-free muffins were prepared by using 15% rice sourdough fermented with the above strain of lactic acid bacteria and compared with rice spontaneous fermentation. Methods like LC-MS (Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry), AA (atomic absorption), HPLC (High-performance liquid chromatography), Folin–Ciocalteu, and 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity (DPPH) were used to fulfill the aim of the study. The addition of rice sourdough fermented with LAB was reflected in the chemical composition of the final baked good, improving its amount on bioactive compounds such as amino acids, mineral bioavailability, total phenols, and antioxidant activity. Total phenols and antioxidant activity increased their amount by 70.53% and 73.70%, respectively, meanwhile, lactic acid, minerals, and amino-acids increased their values at least twice. Thus, rice fermented with Lactobacilus spicheri DSM 15429 strain could be a tool to further increase the nutritional value of gluten-free baked products.

Effect of Amaranth and Quinoa Flours on Exopolysaccharide Production and Protein Profile of Liquid Sourdough Fermented by Weissella cibaria and Lactobacillus plantarum

Exopolysaccharides (EPSs) are known for their positive contribute to the technological properties of many foods, including bakery products. These molecules can be obtained performing piloted fermentation with lactic acid bacteria (LAB). In order to select strains able to produce EPS, a screening test in agar medium containing sucrose, fructose or glucose as carbohydrate source was performed on 21 LAB strains. Results allowed to select 8 Weissella cibaria, 2 Weissella confusa, and 2 Leuconostoc spp. strains as EPS producers only in the presence of sucrose. A further screening in liquid medium enriched with sucrose (10%) (mMRS_S) indicated the W. cibaria strain C43-11 as the higher EPS producer. The selected strain was used to develop liquid sourdoughs (LSs) with dough yield (DY) 500, fermented for 15 h and based on wheat flour and wheat gluten or pseudocereals (quinoa or amaranth) in ratio 1:1, in the presence or not of sucrose at 3% (w/w, LS weight), in comparison to Lactobacillus plantarum ITM21B, a strain not producing EPS in mMRS_S. Results indicated that the use of pseudocereals favored the EPS production. Formulations were optimized by modifying DY (500 or 250), sucrose concentration (3 or 6%) and flour ratio. LSs were characterized for the content of organic acids (lactic, acetic, phenyllactic, OH-phenyllactic), pH, TTA, EPS, viscosity, total protein degradation and protein pattern. The highest EPS production (20.79 g/kg) and viscosity (1168 mPa s) were obtained in LS (DY 250, sucrose 6%) based on quinoa flour and started with C43-11 strain. The LS was characterized by the presence of phenyllactic and OH-phenyllactic acids, protein degradation by 51.7% and proteins in the range 14-80 kDa. In these conditions, also strain ITM21B was able to produce EPS at level of 4.61 g/kg and to degrade proteins by 53.8% in LS based on wheat and quinoa flours (1:1) (DY250 and sucrose 3%). Therefore, results demonstrated that the use of selected conditions (flour type, DY, sucrose) can stimulate specific attributes of strains making them suitable for production of short fermented (15 h) LSs which can be used as bread improvers.

Harnessing Microbes for Sustainable Development: Food Fermentation as a Tool for Improving the Nutritional Quality of Alternative Protein Sources

In order to support the multiple levels of sustainable development, the nutritional quality of plant-based protein sources needs to be improved by food technological means. Microbial fermentation is an ancient food technology, utilizing dynamic populations of microorganisms and possessing a high potential to modify chemical composition and cell structures of plants and thus to remove undesirable compounds and to increase bioavailability of nutrients. In addition, fermentation can be used to improve food safety. In this review, the effects of fermentation on the protein digestibility and micronutrient availability in plant-derived raw materials are surveyed. The main focus is on the most important legume, cereal, and pseudocereal species (Cicer arietinum, Phaseolus vulgaris, Vicia faba, Lupinus angustifolius, Pisum sativum, Glycine max; Avena sativa, Secale cereale, Triticum aestivum, Triticum durum, Sorghum bicolor; and Chenopodium quinoa, respectively) of the agrifood sector. Furthermore, the current knowledge regarding the in vivo health effects of fermented foods is examined, and the critical points of fermentation technology from the health and food safety point of view are discussed.

Textural and Sensory Features Changes of Gluten Free Muffins Based on Rice Sourdough Fermented with Lactobacillus spicheri DSM 15429

Gluten free products available on the market have a low textural quality associated with high crumbly structure, low-flavor, aroma, poor mouthfeel, less appearance, in comparison with the conventional final baked products. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of rice sourdough fermented with Lactobacillus spicheri DSM 15429 strain on textural, volatile profile, and sensorial properties of gluten free muffins in order to obtain baked goods with improved quality characteristics. Lactobacillus spicheri is a novel strain isolated from industrial rice sourdough but unexploited for bakery products manufacturing. The results showed that Lactobacillus spicheri DSM 15429 was able to growth in the rice flour influencing the texture and the volatile profile of gluten free muffins as well as their sensory characteristics. Both, textural parameters and volatiles recorded significant differences comparing to muffins obtained with a spontaneously fermented rice sourdough. Hardness and cohesiveness decreased while springiness and resilience of gluten free muffins improved their values. The volatile profile of gluten free muffins was significantly improved by utilization of the rice sourdough fermented with Lactobacilus spicheri DSM 15429. 3-methylbutanal, 2-methylbutanal, acetophenone and limonene were the main volatile derivatives responsible for aroma and odor scores of sensory analysis.

Processed Fruiting Bodies of Lentinus edodes as a Source of Biologically Active Polysaccharides

Water soluble polysaccharides (WSP) were isolated from Lentinus edodes fruiting bodies. The mushrooms were previously subjected to various processing techniques which included blanching, boiling, and fermenting with lactic acid bacteria. Therefore, the impact of processing on the content and biological activities of WSP was established. Non-processed fruiting bodies contained 10.70 ± 0.09 mg/g fw. Boiling caused ~12% decrease in the amount of WSP, while blanched and fermented mushrooms showed ~6% decline. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis (FTIR) confirmed the presence of β-glycosidic links, whereas due to size exclusion chromatography 216 kDa and 11 kDa molecules were detected. WSP exhibited antioxidant potential in FRAP (ferric ion reducing antioxidant power) and ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) assays. Cytotoxic properties were determined on MCF-7 and T47D human breast cell lines using MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) test. Both biological activities decreased as the result of boiling and fermenting.

Effect of fermentation and dry roasting on the nutritional quality and sensory attributes of quinoa

BACKGROUND

Quinoa is a pseudocereal with relatively high content of proteins and minerals that also contains mineral inhibitors such as phytate. The aim of the present study was to evaluate lactic acid fermentation and dry roasting on the nutritional quality and sensory attributes of quinoa. Various processes were evaluated, and quinoa grains were dry-roasted, milled, and fermented, either with or without the addition of wheat phytase or activated quinoa phytase (added as back-slop starter), for 10 hr. In other processes, raw quinoa flour was fermented for 10 hr or 4 hr and dry-roasted. Hedonic sensory evaluation was then performed to evaluate the acceptability of the fermented flours prepared as porridges.

RESULTS

The combined dry roasting and fermentation processes significantly (p < .05) degraded phytate between 30% and 73% from initial content. The most effective process was fermentation of raw quinoa flour followed by dry roasting, which improved the estimated zinc and iron bioavailability. Particularly, estimated zinc bioavailability improved from low (Phy:Zn 25.4, Phy·Zn:Ca 295) to moderate (Phy:Zn 7.14, Phy·Zn:Ca 81.5). Phytate degradation was mainly attributed to the activation of endogenous phytase during fermentation. Dry roasting was effective in improving the sensory attributes of the fermented quinoa flour. Porridge made with raw quinoa flour fermented for 4 hr and dry-roasted was more favorable to overall acceptability than that which was fermented for 10 hr and dry-roasted.

CONCLUSION

Fermentation of quinoa flour for 4 hr followed by dry roasting was successful in improving both nutritional and sensory attributes of the final product.

Fermentation of pseudocereals quinoa, canihua, and amaranth to improve mineral accessibility through degradation of phytate

BACKGROUND

Pseudocereals are nutrient-rich grains with high mineral content but also phytate content. Phytate is a mineral absorption inhibitor. The study's aim was to evaluate phytate degradation during spontaneous fermentation and during Lactobacillus plantarum 299v® fermentation of quinoa, canihua, and amaranth grains and flours. It also aimed to evaluate the accessibility of iron, zinc, and calcium and to estimate their bioavailability before and after the fermentation of flours with starter culture. Lactic acid, pH, phytate, and mineral content were analyzed during fermentation.

RESULTS

Higher phytate degradation was found during the fermentation of flours (64-93%) than during that of grains (12-51%). Results suggest that phytate degradation was mainly due to endogenous phytase activity in different pseudocereals rather than the phytase produced by added microorganisms. The addition of Lactobacillus plantarum 299v® resulted in a higher level of lactic acid (76.8-82.4 g kg^-1 DM) during fermentation, and a relatively quicker reduction in pH to 4 than in spontaneous fermentation. Mineral accessibility was increased (1.7-4.6-fold) and phytate : mineral molar ratios were reduced (1.5-4.2-fold) in agreement with phytate degradation (1.8-4.2-fold) in fermented flours. The reduced molar ratios were still above the threshold value for the improved estimated mineral bioavailability of mainly iron.

CONCLUSION

Fermentation proved to be effective for degrading phytate in pseudocereal flours, but less so in grains. Fermentation with Lactobacillus plantarum 299v® improved mineral accessibility and estimated bioavailability in flours. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Solid state treatment with Lactobacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei BGHN14 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus BGT10 improves nutrient bioavailability in granular fish feed

The aim of this research was to improve nutritive value of fishmeal-based feed by lactobacilli in order to achieve satisfactory nutrient availability needed to support fish development. Feed was solid-state treated at a laboratory scale with the combination of Lactobacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei BGHN14 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus BGT10 in different experimental settings, which included the variation of strain ratio, total lactobacilli concentration, percentage of moisture and duration of incubation. Short peptides, soluble proteins, phospho-, neutral and unsaturated lipids were quantified. Differences among treated and control feeds were evaluated by Student t-test, while Gaussian process regression (GPR) modeling was employed to simulate the incubation process and define the optimal treatment combination in the context of overall feed nutritional profile. Treatment duration was shown to be the critical determinant of final outcome, either as single factor or via interaction with strain ratio. Optimal nutrient balance was achieved with 12 h incubation period, 260% moisture, 75:25 and 50:50 BGHN14:BGT10 ratios and 200 mg of lactobacilli per g of dry feed. This study should serve as the basis for large-scale tests which would simulate on-farm production of both fishmeal-based and unconventional, lower cost aquafeed with added value.

In vitro investigation of bioactivities of solid-state fermented lupin, quinoa and wheat using Lactobacillus spp

This study is an in-vitro investigation of the health-promoting properties of fermented whole-grain lupin, quinoa and wheat, using 72 h solid-state fermentation by Lactobacillus reuteri K777 and Lb. plantarum K779. Antiproliferative activity against Caco-2 and MCF-7 cancer cell lines (tumour cell lines of intestinal and mammary origin, respectively) was investigated, as well as α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition, antihypertensive, antioxidant and proteolytic activities. ABTS antioxidant activities of fermented lupin (FL, 55% w/v), quinoa (FQ, 55% w/v) and wheat (FW, 55% w/v) ranged from ∼12.0% to 55.0%, ∼17.6% to 73.0%, and ∼29.0% to 26.0%, respectively. Lupin, quinoa and wheat fermented by L. plantarum had pronounced antihypertensive activities (∼85%). The α-glucosidase inhibition in FL was higher than that of FQ and FW. The magnitude of the antiproliferative activities of FL was markedly greater (p < 0.05) than of FQ and FW by approximately three-fold and two-folds against Caco-2 and MCF-7 cell lines, respectively.

Flavoring Production in Kamut®, Quinoa and Wheat Doughs Fermented by Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus brevis: A SPME-GC/MS Study

This study identified the odor-active compounds and the qualitative characteristics of doughs from “ancient” grains flours fermented by lactic acid bacteria. For this purpose doughs made with quinoa and Kamut® flours have been produced and inoculated with strains belonging to the species Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus brevis and compared with fermented doughs made from 100% wheat flour. The quality of the doughs was determined by assessment of pH, total titratable acidity, lactic acid bacteria growth and flavor compounds. The results showed that lactic acid bacteria used were able to grow in the different substrates reaching more than 9.0 log CFU/g after 24 h fermentation, although the best microbial growth was recorded in the doughs made with quinoa flour fermented with Lactobacillus paracasei I1. Good acidification and heterogeneous aromatic profile were recognized in all the doughs even if the volatile composition mainly derived from microbial specie. Among all the used strains, mostly Lactobacillus paracasei I1 positively contributed to the aromatic profile of the doughs, independently from flour type, producing the highest amount of different ketones such as, diacetyl, acetoin, 2,6-dimethyl-4-heptanone, 5-methyl-3-hexanone, 4-methyl-3-penten-2-one, volatile compounds highly appreciated in the bakery products for their buttery, fatty and fruity notes. So, the positive characteristic of Lactobacillus paracasei I1 to enhance the production of desired volatile compounds could make it suitable as adjunct culture starter in the bakery industry. Many differences in volatile organic compounds derived also by the type of flour used. Quinoa fermented doughs were characterized for specific nutty, roasted, acid and buttery tones derived from pyrazines, ketones and acid compounds whereas Kamut® fermented doughs were characterized for fruity, rose, green and sweet tones derived from aldehydes and ketones production. So, the use of quinoa and Kamut® flours opportunely fermented, as partial or complete substitution of wheat flour, may be interesting for producing more balanced bakery products with respect to nutritional aspects and to unique aromatic profile. Furthermore, the supplementation of these flours, rich in protein content and free amino acids, could represent an optimal substrate to enhance the growth of lactic acid bacteria used as starter culture in leavened bakery products.

Current Trends in Ancient Grains-Based Foodstuffs: Insights into Nutritional Aspects and Technological Applications

For centuries, ancient grains fed populations, but due to their low yield, they were abandoned and replaced by high-yielding species. However, currently, there is a renewed interest in ancient wheat and pseudocereal grains from consumers, farmers, and manufacturers. Ancient wheat such as einkorn, emmer, spelt, and Kamut®, are being reintegrated because of their low fertilizer input, high adaptability and important genetic diversity. New trends in pseudocereal products are also emerging, and they are mostly appreciated for their nutritional outcomes, particularly by the gluten-free market. Toward healthier lifestyle, ancient grains-based foodstuffs are a growing business and their industrialization is taking 2 pathways, either as a raw ingredient or a functional ingredient. This paper deals with these grain characteristics by focusing on the compositional profile and the technological potential.

Impact of solid state fermentation on nutritional, physical and flavor properties of wheat bran

To improve the nutritional, physical and flavor properties of wheat bran, yeast and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were used for fermenting wheat bran in solid state. Appearance properties, nutritional properties, microstructure, hydration properties and flavor of raw bran and fermented bran were evaluated. After treatments, water extractable arabinoxylans were 3-4 times higher than in raw bran. Total dietary fiber and soluble dietary fiber increased after solid state fermentation. Over 20% of phytic acid was degraded. Microstructure changes and protein degradation were observed in fermented brans. Water holding capacity and water retention capacity of fermented brans were improved. Results suggest that solid state fermentation is an effective way to improve the properties of wheat brans.

Lactobacillus plantarum BL011 cultivation in industrial isolated soybean protein acid residue

In this study, physiological aspects of Lactobacillus plantarum BL011 growing in a new, all-animal free medium in bioreactors were evaluated aiming at the production of this important lactic acid bacterium. Cultivations were performed in submerged batch bioreactors using the Plackett–Burman methodology to evaluate the influence of temperature, aeration rate and stirring speed as well as the concentrations of liquid acid protein residue of soybean, soy peptone, corn steep liquor, and raw yeast extract. The results showed that all variables, except for corn steep liquor, significantly influenced biomass production. The best condition was applied to bioreactor cultures, which produced a maximal biomass of 17.87 g L⁻¹, whereas lactic acid, the most important lactic acid bacteria metabolite, peaked at 37.59 g L⁻¹, corresponding to a productivity of 1.46 g L⁻¹ h⁻¹. This is the first report on the use of liquid acid protein residue of soybean medium for L. plantarum growth. These results support the industrial use of this system as an alternative to produce probiotics without animal-derived ingredients to obtain high biomass concentrations in batch bioreactors.

Short communication: 3-phenyllactic acid production in milk by Pediococcus pentosaceus SK25 during laboratory fermentation process

3-Phenyllactic acid (PLA) is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial compound, produced by a wide range of lactic acid bacteria. A novel lactic acid bacteria strain with high PLA-producing ability, Pediococcus pentosaceus SK25, was isolated from traditional Chinese pickles. When grown in de Man, Rogosa, Sharpe broth at 30°C for 36h, this strain produced 135.6mg/L of PLA. Using this strain as starter for milk fermentation, 47.2mg/L of PLA was produced after fermentation for 12h. The PLA production was significantly improved by phenylalanine supplement, but was completely inhibited by tyrosine supplement.