Fermentation is an easy, ancient process of preservation. Salt is dissolved in natural juice and/or water to make brine. Fermenting...

Listeria is a genus of bacteria with major effects on human health and the environment. Many Listeria bacteria are beneficial, but...

Galactose is a simple sugar or monosaccharide. It's related to glucose, with both sugars produced through the same process. Galactose is...

Treponema pallidum is a parasitic spirochete or spiral bacterium, primarily known for causing the STI syphilis . It's tricky to...

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) of obscure origins, a spotty history and massive impact. In the Renaissance its...

Probiotics help maintain human health and support environmental balance. Seven major probiotics species benefit human physical and mental...

Fermentation brings layers of flavor and a range of health benefits. Green beans are nutritious, but nourishing factors can be inhibited...

Noble rot has tremendous impact in winemaking, especially of dessert wines. This dowdy fungus, Botrytis cinerea , is a phenomenon in...

Kombucha is a popular wellness elixir around the world. This sparkling beverage with ancient origins promises a range of health benefits....

The Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast, or SCOBY, and Mother of Vinegar ( Mycoderma aceti ) both create delicious unique fermented...

Rennet is a complex set of enzymes central to many cheeses. It coagulates milk to form curds.  The primary enzyme in rennet is chymosin...

Mold is a fungus related to yeast and mildew. In fermentation mold has complex and cultivated functions. It's used in soy sauce, salami,...

Starch is an energy source for countless organisms. Among the microbes loving this complex sugar is a remarkable group of bacteria...

Ethyl acetate is an aromatic compound produced by yeast in beverage brewing, bestowing sweet fruity scents and complex flavor profiles....

Hanseniaspora is a genus of wild yeast, notable for flavors and nuances it brings to wine. Hanseniaspora yeast loves sugar-rich...

Terroir is created by unique environmental aspects. Often linked to wine, terroir also influences agricultural products such as cheese...

Lactic acid fermentation is used intentionally by humans for thousands of years. A common method of preservation, this biological process...

Yeast is a vital microorganism in wine making. From ancient fermentation to modern advancements, yeast influences taste, texture and...

Yeasts are lactose intolerant; but for every rule there are exceptions. These three species are able to use lactose, or milk sugar, as a...

Pseudomonadota  is a phylum of bacteria associated with nutrient cycling, human and environmental health. Some like the E. coli,...