What You Need to Know
Precise temperature and salt management drive microbial enzymatic pathways that convert carbohydrates and proteins into organic acids, amino acids, and aromatic compounds, while deviations cause spoilage or off‑flavors.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Fermentation of carbohydrates and proteins by lactic acid bacteria, Bacillus subtilis, and Aspergillus oryzae, producing organic acids, amino acids, peptides, sugars, and volatile aroma compounds.