Are microorganisms in food "Beneficial or Dangerous?"

It is believed that many people have heard  from many sources about the dangers of microorganisms mixed in food,when eating those foods, some have nausea or vomiting. Some cause intestinal inflammation. as well as the occurrence of life-threatening diseases.

However, in another way,  it is an important part in the production process of some types of food, such as increasing nutritional value or even help extend the shelf life of food.

 

 

Microbial contamination of food that causes harm

Microbial contamination which is mixed around us. As mentioned above, that means various microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, including parasites and protozoa. These are the things that get mixed up in food or water. and will be something that causes disease or toxins in people. It will cause those who eat it to become sick from food-borne diseases, namely food poisoning or possible food-borne infections. And disease can occur from toxins that microorganisms create in the body.

Contamination from microorganisms occurs from many causes, including soil, wastewater, air, vegetables, fruits, animals, production and transportation. Or maybe during the sale

​       Therefore, raw food or undercooked should not be consumed.  Including fruits and vegetables that have not been washed or are not cleaned enough. Food that has flies crawling around or picking up food that have been dropped on the floor and eating them again.

 

Beneficial microorganisms in food

 

The use of microorganisms used by humans in various food applications has existed since ancient times. It is often fermented, such as wine, bread, cheese, sausage, fermented fermented pork, etc. There is also food preservation and food processing. To help increase the shelf life of food. As well as adding nutritional value to many types of food. This is mainly taking advantage of many types of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and yeast.

 We will give examples of 3 products that has microorganisms as an ingredient in production

1. Yogurt :
Fermented milk products that have been fermented with specific microorganisms. It is a protein source product that contains essential amino acids. and many nutrients that are important to health as well. In addition, there are benefits from the microorganisms in yogurt. and added probiotics Can help increase calcium absorption and promote good bone health

2. Tempeh:
Soybeans are boiled and fermented with microorganisms, which are fungi that help digest protein in beans. Then it becomes fibers that bind together into lumps. Tempeh is a source of protein. Suitable for people who love health. or people who eat vegetarian food.

3. Soy sauce:
It is a food product obtained from fermentation using microorganisms. The main raw material is soybeans. The microorganisms used give the soy sauce a good smell. Make it an acidic soy sauce. The pH value is reduced, preventing spoilage.

Source :

https://fostat.org/communication/fscm038/

https://aectradecenter-th.com/article/microorganisms-in-food/

https://webportal.bangkok.go.th/lab/page/main/2162/0/1/info/96809/คู่มือผู้ใช้งานระบบหลังบ้าน_Bangkok-PORTAL.pdf

Complied by : Suwanna 

Translated by : Pung