FOOD SCIENCE ›› 2012, Vol. 33 ›› Issue (21): 323-327.

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A Review of the Metabolism of Substances by Oenococcus oeni in Wine

  

  • Received:2012-03-03 Revised:2012-10-15 Online:2012-11-15 Published:2012-11-09

Abstract: Oenococcus oeni is the major lactic acid bacteria that induce malolactic fermentation (MLF) in wine. Its metabolites including lactic acid, acetic acid, diacetyl, acetoin and biogenic amines play an essential role in wine, especially in terms of sensory quality. This article reviews the metabolism of Oenococcus oeni during MLF in wine, and describes the metabolism of sugars, organic acids, nitrogenous substances and phenolic compounds. Changes in the growth and metabolic pathway of Oenococcus oeni with various factors are discussed in this paper. It has been proven that pH, SO2, ethanol concentration and glucose/fructose ratio are critical factors affecting the metabolism of Oenococcus oeni. The role of phenolic compounds in metabolism has gained more and more attention. On the one hand, phenolic compounds can influence MLF indirectly through stimulating or inhibiting the growth of Oenococcus oeni. On the other hand, different phenolic compounds also can influence the metabolism of other phenolic compounds, thus affecting the taste and quality of wine. Fully comprehensive understanding of Oenococcus oeni metabolism in wine will contribute to better regulation of the whole MLF process.

Key words: Oenococcus oeni, malolactic fermentation (MLF), wine, metabolism

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