Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 8, 2025

A Gnotobiotic System for Studying Microbiome Assembly in the Phyllosphere and in Vegetable Fermentation
Published on: June 3, 2020
How Microbiome Composition Correlates with Biochemical Changes during Sauerkraut Fermentation: a Focus on Neglected
Ali Zein Alabiden Tlais1, Wilson José Fernandes Lemos Junior1, Pasquale Filannino2
1Faculty of Science and Technology, Libera Università di Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy.
This study reveals Secundilactactobacillus malefermentans as a key player in sauerkraut fermentation, especially at low temperatures. It also links microbiome changes to phenolic compound profiles, offering insights for improved sauerkraut production.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Food Science
- Metagenomics
Background:
- Sauerkraut fermentation involves complex bacterial community succession.
- Understanding the microbiome's role is crucial for optimizing fermentation and product quality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate bacterial community dynamics during sauerkraut fermentation.
- To identify key microbial species and their metabolic functions.
- To correlate microbiome shifts with changes in phenolic compounds.
Main Methods:
- Culture-dependent methods for core microbiome identification.
- Shotgun metagenomics for comprehensive community analysis.
- Analysis of phenolic compound profiles throughout fermentation.
Main Results:
- Secundilactobacillus malefermentans identified as a core species, particularly at low temperatures.
- Phenolic compound profiles changed, with increased free phenolics and subsequent microbial conversion.
- Correlation analysis revealed metabolic potential for phenolic bioconversion in lactobacilli and Pediococcus spp.
Conclusions:
- Secundilactactobacillus malefermentans may be a key starter for low-temperature sauerkraut fermentation.
- Microbiome composition influences phenolic compound profiles, impacting sauerkraut's nutritional and sensory traits.
- Findings provide references for sauerkraut biotechnology and understanding plant-based ecosystems.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Microorganisms in Agriculture and Food industry
Bacterial Flora of the Large Intestine
The normal gut flora of the colon plays a critical role in generating essential vitamins such as vitamins K, B5, and B7.
Microbial Fermentation
The Roles of Bacteria and Fungi in Plant Nutrition
Overview of Archaea
Environmental Applications of Microorganisms

