Proteolytic yeasts associated with soft chhurpi production were identified.
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Different yeasts were dominant during fermentation and in marketed products.
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Proteolytic yeasts were used for the production of bioactive protein hydrolysate.
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K. marxianus YMP45 and S. cerevisiae YAM14 resulted in higher antioxidant activity.
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Potential yeast isolates can be used for the production of bioactive peptides.