A peculiar stimulatory effect of acetic and lactic acid on growth and fermentative metabolism of Zygosaccharomyces bailii

Stimulatory or protective effects of organic acids at low concentrations, e.g. acetic and lactic acid, on microorganisms have previously been reported. Especially in case of Zygosaccharomyces bailii, a peculiar growth stimulation by these two acids has recently been noticed. In order to elucidate this interesting phenomenon, growth and fermentative metabolism of Z. bailii was investigated in media with low pH (pH 4.0), high sugar (15% (w/v)) and different acetic and lactic acid concentrations. At both experimental temperatures (7 and 30 °C), a growth stimulation in the presence of 2.5% (v/v) lactic acid was observed. Furthermore at 7 °C, the yeast exhibited another unusual behaviour as it grew much faster in media containing 1.25% (v/v) acetic acid than in the control (without any acid). Production of fermentative metabolites was also increased together with the enhanced growth at both temperatures. These possible stimulatory effects of acetic and lactic acid should be taken into consideration when the acids are used at low doses for food preservative purpose. Presence of the acids may stimulate Z. bailii growth and fermentative metabolism, particularly at refrigeration temperature, consequently resulting in an earlier spoilage.