608 - ‘Proteolysis in sourdough fermentations: mechanisms and potential for improved bread quality’. Trends in Food Science & Technology. Volume 19, Issue 10, Pages 513-521

Reference Number: 608

Year: 2008

Authors: Michael G. Gänzle, Jussi Loponen and Marco Gobbetti

Link: Link to original paper

Health: Key Research Papers

Intolerance & Sensitivity: Non coeliac gluten sensitivity

Lactic Acid Bacteria: Heterofermentative

Summary

The degradation of the cereal proteins in wheat and rye sourdough fermentations strongly affects the quality of bread. Acidification and the reduction of disulfide bonds of gluten by heterofermentative lactobacilli increase the activity of cereal proteases and substrate accessibility; amino acids are accumulated by strain-specific intracellular peptidases of lactobacilli. Germinated cereals or other proteases enable an extensive degradation of proteins in sourdoughs in fermentation protocols that may be used to develop new products for individuals with gluten intolerance. The increased knowledge on proteolysis in sourdoughs enables a directed optimization of fermentation to improve bread quality.

 

Significance to the baker:

This study explores the mechanisms whereby lactic acid fermentation reduces gluten content and increases amino-acids in cereal products. By uncovering the mechanisms behind gluten degradation, the researchers hope to optimise fermentation to improve bread quality.

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