What You Need to Know
During fermentation, enzymes such as glucosidases and decarboxylases cleave sugars, producing organic acids that lower pH and alcohol dehydrogenases that generate ethanol. The metabolic pathways also yield secondary metabolites like acetic acid, gluconic acid, and mycotoxins, which contribute to flavor, aroma, and preservation.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Fermentation of sugars to acids, alcohols, gases, and flavor compounds