Microbial transformation: the role of fermentation in advancing nutritional quality and human health

Fermentation, one of the oldest food preservation techniques, has recently garnered renewed interest due to its ability to enhance the nutritional and functional characteristics of food. Fermentation’s microbial metabolism preserves food while transforming its bioactive components, synthesizing health-promoting metabolites, including vitamins, bioactive peptides, antioxidants, and short-chain fatty acids. This review article examines how fermentation utilizes microbial populations to enhance food quality and confer health benefits. We begin by examining the fundamental role of microbes in fermentation, emphasizing essential microorganisms such as lactic acid bacteria, yeast, and mold, which are responsible for the biochemical changes that enhance the quality of fermented foods. These microbes not only enhance flavor, texture, and shelf life but also contribute to improved gut health, regulate the immune system, and reduce inflammation by producing probiotics and other bioactive compounds. The review discusses the emerging applications of fermentation in developing functional foods, emphasizing the growing body of evidence that fermented products can help prevent and manage chronic diseases, including gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome. Particular emphasis is placed on how microbial fermentation can enhance the bioavailability of key elements, such as B vitamins and minerals, while degrading anti-nutritional substances like phytates and oxalates, making fermented foods extremely beneficial to a wide range of individuals. In conclusion, this review emphasizes the underutilized potential of microbial metabolism in food fermentation as a valuable tool for improving human health. Researchers and the food industry can design nutrient-dense, functional foods that fulfill customers’ desire for healthier alternatives while simultaneously contributing to global food system sustainability.

Graphical abstract