Lactose Metabolism by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum

Lactose, as the main carbon source of lactic acid bacteria in the process of dairy fermentation, is a disaccharide composed of glucose and galactose linked by 1,4-glycosidic bond. A good starter can produce acid quickly, so the high utilization efficiency of lactose is one of the important indexes for screening lactic acid bacteria strains in the dairy industry. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum has generally regarded as safe status and is an important probiotic. It can colonize the intestinal environment, thus playing an important role in alleviating diarrhea, reducing cholesterol and irritable bowel syndrome. Some strains of Lp. plantarum with excellent properties have been used as starters in the production of dairy products such as yogurt and cheese to increase functionality. In this chapter, we review the research progress of lactose metabolism in Lp. plantarum, to lay the foundation for the application of this species in related fermentation products.