Effects of Some Spices on Acid Production by Starter Cultures

Ginger, red pepper, mustard, mace, cinnamon and clove were examined to determine their effects on growth of and acid production by a starter culture containing Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus cerevisiae in a liquid medium. At 4, 8, and 12 g/l levels all spices except clove stimulated acid production by the starter bacteria but did not stimulate increases in bacterial population. Clove was inhibitory to the starter bacteria at and above the 4 g/l level, but low concentrations (0.5 - 2.0 g/l) stimulated acid production. High concentrations of cinnamon (8 and 12 g/l) delayed acid production, but bacterial counts were similar to those of the control.