Development of Starter Culture for the Production of African Condiments and Seasoning Agents

Abstract

As a process, food fermentation dates back at least 6000 years and is likely to be derived from microbial interactions of an appropriate nature. Fermentation has allowed our ancestors to survive the winter season in temperate and cooler regions and those in the tropics to survive the periods of drought by improving food shelf-life and safety. Traditional fermentation process is still used as a replacement where there is no refrigeration or other means available for food storage. In general, fermented foods can be defined as foods produced through controlled microbial growth and the conversion of food components through enzymatic actions. They are generally appreciated for characteristics such as pleasant taste, aroma, texture and improved cooking and processing properties. Microorganisms contribute to the development of characteristic properties such as taste, smell, visual appearance, texture, shelf-life and protection by virtue of their metabolic activities. Enzymes indigenous to the raw materials may play a role in enhancing these characteristics. The use of starter cultures is a hallmark of industrial food fermentation and their introduction has been followed by a continuous search to improve them. Examples of desired properties in starter cultures include robustness during manufacturing, fast growth, high biomass yield and product yield and specific organoleptic properties. Quality, safety and acceptability of traditional fermented foods may be significantly improved through the use of starter cultures selected on the basis of multifunctional considerations, also taking into account the probiotic concept and possibilities offered for improved health benefits. Focused studies toward the introduction of starter cultures for small-scale fermentations seem more than justified, and in fact, deserve the highest priority.