Control of dongchimi fermentation with chitosan deacetylated by alkali treatment to prevent over-ripening.

Antimicrobial activities of chitosan against lactic acid bacteria were studied to apply for controlling dongchimi (whole-radish juicy kimchi) fermentation to prevent over-ripening. Antimicrobial activity of chitosan against lactic acid bacteria such as Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Lactobacillus plantarum was assayed at 10, 20, 30, and 40 mg/L concentration in the medium. The addition of 40 mg/L of the chitosan prepared at 140 degrees C for 10 min showed strong inhibitory effect on the growth of L.