Nutritional Contributions and Health Associations of Traditional Fermented Foods

The growing interest in the consumption and study of traditionally fermented food worldwide has led to the development of numerous scientific investigations that have focused on analyzing the microbial and nutritional composition and the health effects derived from the consumption of these foods. Traditionally fermented foods and beverages are a significant source of nutrients, including proteins, essential fatty acids, soluble fiber, minerals, vitamins, and some essential amino acids. Additionally, fermented foods have been considered functional due to their prebiotic content, and the presence of specific lactic acid bacterial strains (LAB), which have shown positive effects on the balance of the intestinal microbiota, providing a beneficial impact in the treatment of diseases. This review presents a bibliographic compilation of scientific studies assessing the effect of the nutritional content and LAB profile of traditional fermented foods on different conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and gastrointestinal disorders.

Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects of Fermented Eggplant Fruit Extracts with Leuconostoc mesenteroides KD20

We isolated Leuconostoc mesenteroides KD20, which has its application as a cosmetic material, while searching for useful microbes in Gangwon-do’s traditional fermented foods. Eggplant fruit extract (EG) was fermented with lactic acid bacteria L. mesenteroides. HPLC analysis results for the component analysis of EG and the fermented eggplant fruit extract (FEG) showed bio-conversion of quercetin 3-O-β-D-glucoside and rutin. To investigate skin protection effects of EG and FEG against skin damage by ultraviolet ray, we measured antioxidation and inhibitory effect of inflammation-related cytokines in keratinocytes irradiated with ultraviolet B (UVB). Biosynthesis of IL- 1α, which is increased with UVB in keratinocytes, was inhibited by 24.7% and 28.3% at 100 μg/ml of EG and FEG, respectively. Biosynthesis of PGE2 in keratinocytes was inhibited by 45.7% and 52.3% at 100 μg/ml of EG and FEG, respectively, indicating a greater effect of FEG. Therefore, EG and FEG can be used as an excellent material for cosmetics with skin protection effect against ultraviolet irradiation in keratinocytes.

Traditional Fermented Beverages of Mexico: A Biocultural Unseen Foodscape

Mexico is one of the main regions of the world where the domestication of numerous edible plant species originated. Its cuisine is considered an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and ferments are important components but have been poorly studied. Traditional fermented foods are still diverse, but some are endangered, requiring actions to promote their preservation. Our study aimed to (1) systematize information on the diversity and cultural history of traditional Mexican fermented beverages (TMFB), (2) document their spatial distribution, and (3) identify the main research trends and topics needed for their conservation and recovery. We reviewed information and constructed a database with biocultural information about TMFB prepared and consumed in Mexico, and we analyzed the information through network approaches and mapped it. We identified 16 TMFB and 143 plant species involved in their production, species of Cactaceae, Asparagaceae, and Poaceae being the most common substrates. Microbiological research has been directed to the potential biotechnological applications of Lactobacillus, Bacillus, and Saccharomyces. We identified a major gap of research on uncommon beverages and poor attention on the cultural and technological aspects. TMFB are dynamic and heterogenous foodscapes that are valuable biocultural reservoirs. Policies should include their promotion for conservation. The main needs of research and policies are discussed.

Evaluation of the probiotic potential of yeasts isolated from Indian fermented food items

Probiotics are living microbes that are beneficial to humans. They replenish the human gut microflora after antibiotic usage and also help to fight off pathogenic microbes. Probiotics can be either natural such as curd, or synthesized, such as the Japanese drink Yakult. Most fermented Indian foods contain probiotic microorganisms, however, their properties are not well studied. In this study, different microbial isolates (8 Lactic acid bacteria and 6 yeasts) were isolated from four traditional fermented foods commonly consumed in India. Six yeast isolates were screened for different probiotic attributes. Three yeast strains were found to tolerate highly acidic conditions and bile salt concentrations of 5% and 10%. They were able to grow at 37oC and also showed cell surface-hydrophobicity and auto-aggregation ability. Two of these isolates showed production of proteases but none of them produced amylase. These isolates were also found to be resistant to ampicillin and amoxicillin. These isolates appeared to be potential probiotic candidates and need to be investigated further.