Vol 11 Issue 4 October 2024-December 2024
Bamidele Adeoba, Ifueko Osaigbovo
Abstract: Traditionally fermented foods play an essential role in the diets of many cultures, often offering health benefits beyond basic nutrition. Gari and Palm wine, two staples in West African cuisine, are rich in lactic acid bacteria (LAB), which are known to contribute to both fermentation processes and potential health benefits. This study focuses on the isolation and characterization of LAB from these fermented products to evaluate their probiotic potential. LAB cultures were grown on MRS agar under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, with growth observed at 24 and 48 hours, in line with similar studies (Arjun et al., 2012; Amoa-Awa et al., 2007; Nwachukwu et al., 2016). Some variations in incubation times across studies were noted, possibly due to differences in sample preparation and LAB strains used (Ramdass et al., 2014; Olaoluwa et al., 2013). The isolated LAB, identified as Gram-positive, catalase- and oxidase-negative cocci and bacilli, were consistent with previously documented LAB characteristics (Arjun et al., 2012; Amoa-Awa et al., 2007; Nwachukwu et al., 2016). In addition, these LAB showed antimicrobial activity against pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, supporting findings from prior research (Guo et al., 2009; Dunne et al., 2001). The LAB's survival in acidic environments was confirmed, as they remained viable in diluted hydrochloric acid. These findings emphasize LAB’s role in traditional fermentation and their potential health benefits, underscoring the need for further research into the probiotic properties of LAB in Gari and Palm wine. It is recommended to encourage public education on the probiotic benefits of LAB in traditionally fermented foods and to enhance support for large-scale LAB production for health applications.
Keywords: lactic acid bacteria, probiotic potential, Gari, Palm wine, antimicrobial properties, fermentation.
Title: Characterization and Probiotic Potential of Lactic Acid Bacilli Isolated from Gari and Palm Wine in Ekpoma, Nigeria
Author: Bamidele Adeoba, Ifueko Osaigbovo
International Journal of Recent Research in Life Sciences (IJRRLS)
ISSN 2349-7823
Vol. 11, Issue 4, October 2024 - December 2024
Page No: 1-18
Paper Publications
Website: www.paperpublications.org
Published Date: 29-October-2024