Application of Lactic Acid Bacteria to Inhibit Fungal Contamination of Cured Cheeses

Lactic acid bacteria with antibacterial activity can be effectively used as probiotics to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria that cause food spoilage or food poisoning. In this study, Pediococcus pentosaceus M132-2, isolated from soybean paste, was analyzed for its effects on three major contaminating fungi. M132-2 was confirmed to exert antifungal activity by inhibiting the growth of all three fungi tested. In addition, M132-2 displayed excellent salt resistance and low temperature tolerance. Thus M132-2 can survive at the salinity level in cheese and at the low temperatures used in the aging process. Finally, when supernatant from an M132-2 culture was applied to Gouda cheese, the growth of contaminating fungi was significantly inhibited. Consequently, M132-2 may be useful for the prevention of spoilage of various foods, including cheese.