What You Need to Know
During fermentation, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) such as Lactobacillus plantarum metabolize fermentable sugars to produce lactic acid and CO₂. The acidification lowers the pH to ≤4.0, creating an environment hostile to pathogenic and spoilage organisms. Temperature, salt concentration, and time govern the rate of acid production and flavor development.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Fermentation of sugars by LAB to produce lactic acid and CO₂