Effects of oxidoreduction potential combined with acetic acid, NaCl and temperature on the growth, acidification, and membrane properties of Lactobacillus plantarum.

The effects of oxidoreduction potential (Eh) combined with acetic acid, NaCl and temperature on the growth, acidification, and membrane properties of Lactobacillus plantarum were studied. The culture medium was set at pH 5, and two different Eh values were adjusted using nitrogen (Eh = +350 mV) or hydrogen (Eh = -300 mV) gas. In reducing condition, the growth was slowed and the acidification delayed at 37 degrees C, but not at 10 degrees C.

Strains of lactic acid bacteria isolated from sour doughs degrade phytic acid and improve calcium and magnesium solubility from whole wheat flour.

Five strains of lactic bacteria have been isolated from sour doughs and examined for their ability to degrade phytic acid. In white flour medium in which phytic acid was the only source of phosphorus, the disappearance of phytate and an elevation of inorganic phosphate were observed after only 2 h of incubation in all strains tested (-30 and +60%, respectively). Both phenomena correspond to phytate breakdown.