Y. lipolytica is a strict aerobe and non-conventional dimorphic yeast
that is generally recognised as safe (GRAS) (Groenewald et al., 2014).
Naturally found on fermented dairy and meat products, such as cheese
and sausage, Y. lipolytica plays an important role in the flavour development
of these foods due to its high lipolytic and proteolytic activities.
This yeast secretes microbial enzymes to break down milk lipids and
proteins to generate amino acids, short-chain fatty acids and methyl
ketones, all of which contribute to the flavour of cheese and sausage
(Patrignani et al., 2007; Sørensen et al., 2011). The ability of Y. lipolytica
to assimilate a wide range of hydrophobic substrates and carbon
sources, including sugars, hydrocarbons and alcohols, has also driven
the study of its potential biotechnological applications. Some of the