Characterization and correlation of dominant bacteria and volatile compounds in post-fermentation process of Ba-bao Douchi.

Ba-bao Douchi, traditionally produced and spontaneously fermented for 1-2 years, has a unique flavor. However, little information is known about microorganisms and volatile flavors, particularly their relationship. In this study, the aroma profiles including the key aroma compounds, and bacterial communities were characterized and the correlations between dominant bacterial genera with key aroma compounds were studied during the post-fermentation of Ba-bao Douchi.