Isolation and characterization of lactic acid bacteria with probiotic potential from traditional fermented special Kurdish cheese (Zhazhi) in Kurdistan Region, Iraq.

 Zhazhi cheese is a unique farmhouse traditional fermented dairy of the Kurdistan Region in Iraq for its desired aroma and flavor. Undoubtedly, the lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are the critical factors in developing the aroma, flavor, and texture of Zhazhi cheese but it has not been studied or characterised. LAB has many important nutritional benefits, including increasing the nutritional value of food.