Food and Nutrition

Food Microbiology and Fermentation

Food microbiology involves the study of microorganisms in food and their impact on safety, spoilage, and fermentation processes. Microbes such as bacteria, yeast, and molds play crucial roles in food preservation and production, as well as in the development of desirable flavors and textures through fermentation. Fermentation is a natural process wherein microorganisms break down carbohydrates into organic acids, gases, or alcohol, altering the properties and improving the shelf life of food products like yogurt, cheese, and bread. Understanding food microbiology and fermentation is essential for ensuring food safety, quality, and flavor enhancement in various food processing industries.