Bassi
et al. compare natural and selected starter cultures for some of
the main food fermentations such as meat and cheese.
Significant advantages are found using selected starter cultures
in terms of acidification and sensory features as well as
for controlling undesired microorganisms. Nevertheless, also
from this perspective a more in depth knowledge of the
ecological interactions between introduced strains and autochthonous
microbial communities should be warranted.