Isolation and screening of Weissella strains for their potential use as starter during attiéké production

Abstract

Description of the subject. Variability observed in sensory characteristics of “attiéké” results from an uncontrolled fermentation process due to the use of artisanal starters. Objectives. This study aims to screen microbial strains for their use during fermentation of cassava dough into attieké. Method. Technological properties of three lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from artisanal starters were highlighted in vitro, and these LAB were identified as either Weissella cibaria or Weissella confusa by Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation-Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Results. The three Weissella isolates Wc 69, Wc 21 and Wc 114 induced in less than 42 h a decrease below 4.2 (main food safety factor) of the initial pH of MRS (de Man, Rogosa and Sharpe) broth. These strains are osmotolerant, present alpha-amylase activity and ferment the indigestible sugar raffinose. Moreover isolates Wc 114 and Wc 69 are thermotolerant, while Wc 114 presents a pectinase activity necessary for cassava dough softening. Conclusions. Considering their technological properties, the three isolated Weissella strains could be suitable in optimizing and standardizing the quality of attieké.