CASEINOLYTIC ACTIVITY OF LACTIC ACID BACTERIA

Abstract

Among 100 cultures of lactic acid bacteria screened for caseinolytic activity, 13 streptococci and 15 lactobacilli showed clearance zones of proteolysis. Out of 12 cultures examined for caseinolysis after 14 days of growth in chalk milk, maximum activity was noted in L. bulgaricus 15 and S. faecalis 52. Substantial increase in caseinolysis occurred during early stages of incubation in media containing 2.5% casein. L. bulgaricus 15 and S. faecalis 52 degrade K-casein fraction more readily thanαs- or β-fraction.