Phenotypic Identification of Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Tempoyak (Fermented Durian) Made in the Philippines

Abstract

Nine (9) Gram-positive bacteria, isolated from 8-day old fermenting durian (tempoyak) made in the Philippines were classified and subjected to phenotypic analyses. Based on morphological and biochemical characteristics, the lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolates were identified as Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus sp, Weissella paramesenteroides and Pediococcus acidilactici. This is the first report for the presence of Weissella sp and Pediococcus sp in tempoyak. Live cells of LABs in tempoyak makes it a functional food and probably with potential as probiotic product.