NEETZoologyMicrobes in Human Welfare
What is the main purpose of using lactic acid bacteria in milk?
Options
- ATo convert milk into curd
- BTo produce industrial products
- CTo control pests
- DTo treat sewage
Correct answer
A. To convert milk into curd
Step-by-step solution
Micro-organisms such as Lactobacillus and others commonly called lactic acid bacteria (LAB) grow in milk and convert it to curd. During growth, the LAB produce acids that coagulate and partially digest the milk proteins. A small amount of curd added to the fresh milk as inoculum or starter contain millions of LAB, which at suitable temperatures multiply, thus converting milk to curd, which also improves its nutritional quality by increasing vitamin B12. In our stomach too, the LAB play very beneficial role in check