Effect of the use of different lactic starters on the microbiological and physicochemical characteristics of naturally black table olives of gemlik cultivar

Abstract

The effect of different lactic acid bacteria cultures on the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of brined black olives of Gemlik cultivar at low fermentation temperature was studied. Fermentation was carried out according to the traditional Gemlik method with modifications like low salt concentration and lactic starter addition. The brines with 7% salt concentration were inoculated with lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus brevis, Leuconostoc cremoris and L. paramesenteroides), which were previously isolated from olive fruits at low temperatures and a commercial strain of Lb. plantarum. Fermentation procedures were carried out at controlled temperatures (between 10-12C). Lactic acid bacteria survival was accompanied by yeast development, no Pseudomonas and Enterobacter species were detected in all treatments during fermentation. The highest total titratable acidity, lowest pH and least yeast growth were determined at the brines and fermentation products, which were inoculated with L. cremoris.