Question

What is the process involved in fermentation of sauerkraut? what does the process involve? What types of other foods can be prepared using the same method? What type of organism is used for this product of fermentation?

Answer 1

Process

• Sauerkraut is made by a process of pickling called lactic acid fermentation (Not heat treated).
• The cabbage is finely shredded, layered with salt, and left to ferment.The best quality sauerkraut is fermented for a minimum of 20 days.
• This time span ensures good flavor development, proper acidity level and complete consumption of all the sugars in the cabbage.

Other foods

Fermented fresh vegetables such as

• Cabbage - Sauerkraut, Korean kimchi
• Cucumbers - Pickles
• Fermented cereal yogurt - Nigerian ogi, Kenyan uji
• Sourdough bread

Organism

Lactic acid bacteria - Lactobacillus is one of those bacteria