Fermented Food: The Science Behind Fermentation
Fermented food: Surprising reasons to eat more Fermented Food !
Fermented food is foods prepared by the fermentation process. Fermentation is a very old and ancient Indian cooking process which is considered very beneficial for health. This process is used in making pickles, dhokla, idli, bread, alcohol etc.
In this article, we will tell you about fermentation, its properties, types, advantages and disadvantages of fermented food.
Fermentation
Commonly speaking in India, it is called yeast raising. Fermentation is a biochemical activity based on science. In most bacteria and fungi, an action in the absence of oxygen under which glucose-like sugars are converted into alcohols or lactic acid or any other type of organic acid with the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2) is called fermentation.
In other words, microorganisms like bacteria, fungal or yeast turn organic compounds such as starch, sugar etc. into alcohols or acids. It acts as an alcohol or acid preservative, which makes the food taste slightly sour. The batter that is prepared for fermentation is kept on the room temperature overnight. Apart from this, if there is no overnight time for fermentation, then food can be fermented using yeast, soda or fruit salt etc. which are easily found in the market.
Types of Fermentation
Fermentation can be performed as follows-
Alcohol Fermentation: Carbohydrate converted into alcohol by the action of yeast.
Example- Wine, vodka, kombucha and other alcoholic drink, dairy products like lassi, yogurt etc.
Lactic Acid Fermentation: Starch or sugar is converted into lactic acid by yeast and bacteria.
Example- Idli, dhokla, bread etc.
Acetic Acid Fermentation: Starch and sugar present in grains and fruits ferment into vinegar and condiments.
Example- Apple cider vinegar, pickle, soya sauce etc.
Health Benefits of Fermented Food
Precautions and Side Effects of Fermented Food
- Most people are allergic to fermented food. If you also have allergies, then you must see a doctor and avoid these foods.
- Avoid consuming old or stale fermented food. Sometimes these food can become a cause of food poisoning and infection.