Conclusions
This study investigated the bioconversion of phenolic compounds
in food fermentations. Phenolic acid metabolism contributes
to the stress response of lactobacilli to adverse conditions;
moreover, the catabolism of phenolic acids by obligately heterofermentative
species is linked to the reoxidation of the reduced co-factors and thus provides an energetic advantage. Phenolics
metabolism may thus confer a selective advantage for lactobacilli in
vegetable and fruit fermentation. This study also demonstrates that
the metabolism of phenolic compounds is strongly dependent on
the composition and intrinsic factors of fruits and vegetables; information
derived from laboratory media is thus not fully transferable
to food fermentations. Phenol derivatives may also exert
biological activities. Therefore, bioconversion pathways highlighted
in this study could be exploited for food and pharmaceutical
purposes.