2.4. Analytical methods
Brine samples were collected at different time points during fermentation. The enumerations of LAB (L.eu1426 and L.p1121) were performed in MRS agar media supplemented with 0.4% (w/v) bromocresol purple (Guoyao Chemical Company, China). Brine samples (1 mL) were aseptically transferred to 9 mL sterile physiological
saline and then appropriately diluted (Vergara, Blana, Mallouchos, Stamatiou, & Panagou, 2013). Three appropriately diluted samples were chosen to determine the number of viable
cells of LAB. The species in the MRS agar flat were distinguished by colonial morphology. The pH value in the brine was monitored using a pH meter (PHS-25, Shanghai Precision Scientific Instruments Company, China).