3.3. Proteolytic activity and growth at 6.5% NaCl
Seven (7) strains of lactobacilli and enterococci were able to
degrade gelatin in plate assays as observed by the formation of a
clear halo after incubation on a medium containing gelatin, which
indicates proteolytic activity of these strains (Table 1). Also, most of
the strains evaluated (near 88%) were able to grow in the presence
of 6.5% NaCl (Table 1); the main exceptions were those from the
species Lb. fermentum, Lb. brevis and P. pentosaceus. The resistance
of the strains of interest is also very important since these could be
used in the preparation of different foods that contain elevated
concentrations of salt.