Diversity in the traditional fermented foods of Malaysia and their potential as probiotic source

Ahmad Rumaizi, Siti Maryam and Jamek, Shariza and Ramli, Norazsida and Nik Him, Nik Raihan and Mohd Sueb, Mohd Shafiq and Mohd Arsyad, Zatul Iffah (2022) Diversity in the traditional fermented foods of Malaysia and their potential as probiotic source. Malaysian Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Special Issue (1). pp. 64-77. ISSN 1511-2616 E-ISSN 2600-9005

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Abstract

Fermentation is one of the oldest methods of food preservation. Over the centuries, it has evolved, improved, and diversified. The microbial population, an important component of fermented foods, aids in the preservation of nutrients and extends the shelf life of food. These microbes have attracted further interest due to their genetic similarity to probiotic strains. Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in sufficient numbers, promote the host's health. Although lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from various genera, such as Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, and Leuconostoc, are the most prevalent in fermented foods, other bacteria, yeast, and fungi also contribute to food fermentations. Local diets have traditionally featured a range of indigenous fermented foods containing probiotic microorganisms. Besides, there is growing interest in commercialising Malaysian-traditional fermented foods as natural prebiotic foods rich in health-promoting bacteria. Probiotic products, such as fermented foods, are becoming more popular due to their health benefits and consumer accessibility. This article aims to provide an overview of recent studies on the potential source of probiotics from Malaysian traditional fermented foods to understand their importance in healthy diets better.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Traditional foods; Fermentation; Microbial diversity; Probiotic; Lactic acid bacteria
Subjects:	Q Science > Q Science (General) Q Science > QR Microbiology
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences > Department of Biomedical Science (Effective:1st July 2011)
Depositing User:	Dr Norazsida Ramli
Date Deposited:	13 Aug 2026 14:46
Last Update:	13 Aug 2026 14:46
Queue Number:	2026-08-Q4719
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/130764

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