Use of Starter Cultures in Meats

Use of starter cultures in meat products is reviewed, with emphasis on the types of microorganisms employed for production of various products, and the effect of starter cultures on food safety. Desirable starter culture characteristics are identified, and the effect of fermentation on the nutritive quality of meats is considered. Food safety aspects of starter culture use discussed include the effects on survival of viruses, trichinae, and pathogenic bacteria, and on the control of mycotoxin, nitrosamine, and pressor amine contamination.