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What are Fermented Foods?

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What are Fermented Foods

Fermented foods are made by extensive and controlled microbial growth. During fermentation, “starter cultures” of bacteria, yeast and/or molds convert nutrients like starch or sugar into an alcohol or acid. These live and active cultures can improve food safety and lengthen shelf life. A strong and growing body of evidence demonstrates fermented dairy foods (i.e., natural cheese and yogurt) play an important role in health and reduced risk of disease.