0

About a month ago, I started making a dairy-free drink with blended fruit (i.e. Strawberries, Raspberries, etc). I'd like to start lacto-fermenting these smoothies but a friend of mine insists that the sugar content is too high and it would be impossible for bacteria to grow in it.

Can bacteria (namely Lactobacillus) grow in high concentrations of sugar? If not, why and would the sugar content of my blended fruit be too high to allow bacteria fermentation? Would it be possible to lacto-ferment things like Orange Juice or Apple Juice?

Improve this question

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
1

Osmotic pressure does retard cell devision in most micro organisms making it hard to grow "in" a dense solution but they will have no problem growing "on" such a solution. High sugar content does little to inhibit growth of bacteria and yeast as long as it's still a solution and not a "gel".

That being said, you can sour your juices you mentioned with lacto just fine.

Improve this answer
3
  • Thanks Evil, great response. One last thing: Could you explain what you mean, when you say "as long as it's still a solution and not a 'gel.'"
    – Wilhelm
    Apr 24, 2016 at 18:18
  • 1
    @Wilhelm thick like jello
    – Evil Zymurgist
    Apr 24, 2016 at 20:34
  • It's more the texture or a milk shake. Thanks for your help.
    – Wilhelm
    Apr 24, 2016 at 21:11

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.