Lactobacillus Characteristics

Lactobacillus is a large group of bacteria made up of several species and named for their ability to convert sugars into lactic acid. Lactobacillus bacteria are commonly found in the human gastro-intestinal tract, and certain types are used for the commercial production of fermented foods like cheese, yogurt, pickles and wine.

Fermentative Properties

• Lactobacillus bacteria are used to ferment milk for yogurt production.

  The Lactobacillus group contains over 125 different species of the bacteria, and each particular species has its own characteristics. However, there are a few characteristics that all of the Lactobacillus bacteria share, most notably the conversion of sugars into lactic acid in a process known as fermentation. This fermentation lowers pH, and this property is used extensively for commercial food production. Lactobacillus delbrueckii is commonly used for North American yogurt production, and cheese producers often employ various Lactobacillus species to kick start the process of souring milk.

Probiotic Properties

• Lactobacillus bacteria are often used to restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the human gastro-intestinal track. This is especially useful after treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics, which traditionally eliminate both harmful and helpful bacteria. Several Lactobacillus bacteria have probiotic properties, including Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacilllus reuteri, Lactobacilllus casei, Lactobacilllus rhamnosus, Lactobacilllus gasseri and Lactobacilllus johnsonii.

May Cause Dental Cavities

• Some Lactobacillus bacteria have been shown to cause cavities.

  A strong correlation has been found between the presence of Lactobacillus bacteria in saliva and the presence of dental cavities. Among the bacteria identified in saliva are Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus salivaris, Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus plantarum. More research is currently needed to better understand the link between Lactobacillus bacteria and cavities.