Use of isolated autochthonous starter cultures in yogurt production.

The aim of this study was to produce yogurt from Iranian autochthonous starters. Strains of Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus were isolated from autochthonous yogurts. The strains were used as starter for yogurt production. Chemical, microbial and organoleptic characteristics of products were examined. There were significant increases in acidity and acetaldehyde content, and significant decreases in pH and microbial population of samples during cold storage. There was no significant difference in organoleptic characteristics (taste, smell and texture) during cold storage. We conclude that autochthonous starters in production of yogurt can be satisfactorily used and the starters can introduce to national microbial collection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]