Coffee fermentation as a tool for quality improvement: an integrative review and bibliometric analysis

Fermentation has been studied to improve the chemical composition and sensory profile of coffee, of interest to the food industry and farmers seeking competitiveness in the international market. This study addresses the influence of biotransformation on the synthesis of flavour precursor compounds and correlates subsequent processes, such as roasting, and chemical mechanisms responsible for the formation of coffee's sensory profiles. The results indicate that coffee fermentation contributes to the formation of precursor metabolites of volatile compounds and the different fermentation techniques favour the production of high-quality coffee. Bibliometrics analysis from 2012 to 2022 highlighted Brazil and China with a high number of research, scientific collaborations, and international cooperation, indicating a current trend in research focused on sensory modulation. Fermentation technologies point to a promising scenario with the possibility of producing coffee with previously defined sensory characteristics. This market is in full development and corroborates the growing pace of coffee consumption.