The fermentation process enables the growth of Lactic acid bacteria and yeasts, mostly lactobacilli, which accounts to the sourness of the sausage. The salt acts as an inhibitor preventing the meat from going rotten, allowing Lactic acid bacteria and yeasts to feed on the rice and sugar, fermenting the meat to perfection. - See more at: http://www.thaifoodmaster.com/ingredient/meats/pork/155#sthash.a0lXENIu.dpuf