Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) play an essential role in the production
of fermented dairy products, with Lactococcus lactis
and Streptococcus thermophilus being the species most
commonly used as primary fermentation starters [1]. Their
major function is the rapid production of lactic acid from
lactose, resulting in a lowering the pH.
The so-called non-starter lactic acid bacteria (NSLAB)
participate in the development of the final organoleptic
properties of fermented dairy products [2]. NSLAB may
be present in the milk itself, be part of the flora of dairy
facilities or be added to fermentations as adjunct cultures
[3]. These bacteria are frequently facultative, heterofermentative
lactobacilli belonging to the species Lactobacillus
casei/paracasei, Lactobacillus plantarum or Lactobacillus
curvatus [4, 5]. Leuconostoc may be involved in the development
of aroma components [6]. There is increasing interest
in the characterization and use of NSLAB from artisanal
products for use in tailored cultures to be employed in the
manufacture of dairy products with ‘protected geographic
indication’ (PGI) status. Their use would help maintain
their typical organoleptic characteristics [6–9].
The long and safe history of the use of LAB in dairy
products has resulted in the assignment of Qualified Presumption
of Safety (QPS) status [awarded by the European
Food Safety Authority (EFSA)] to the majority of LAB.
However, some properties and enzymatic activities can
generate undesirable flavors [10] or even toxic compounds
such as biogenic amines (BA) [11], the presence of which
should be avoided in dairy products.