Spoilage microbial groups in dairy industry.

Abstract

Milk and dairy products can be spoiled by microorganisms from the raw milk microbiota as well as resident microorganisms in dairy industries, with some being related to more than one type of spoilage due to their metabolic versatility. Different types of spoilage have harmed dairy production, including milk destabilization by enzymatic activity, cheese blowing, discolorations, acidification, off-flavors production, slime formation, and ropiness. Generally, the compounds most associated with these problems are enzymes, secondary metabolites, biogenic amines, lactic acid, volatile compounds, polysaccharides, among others. Additionally, many microorganisms that are beneficial in some dairy products also have the potential to cause spoilage. Here, the main groups of microorganisms associated with the spoilage of milk and dairy products are described, and measures for their control and prevention are presented.