Traditional fermented beverages in Mexico: Biotechnological, nutritional, and functional approaches

Abstract

Preservation of food through fermentation is an ancient practice that, besides extending produce shelf-life, has represented a significant source of nutrients and health-promoting compounds in the human diet throughout history. Traditional fermented beverages are an essential element of the cultural and culinary heritage of many countries. In Mexico, several indigenous fermented beverages have been consumed since prehispanic times, and are still used for ceremonial purposes. The production of these beverages is generally from fruits, plants, maize, and maize dough, which are utilized as a substrate by microorganisms during spontaneous fermentation. This review compiles information from the most relevant studies concerning Mexican fermented beverages. These have generally focused on three principal aspects: (1) the identification and isolation of the endogenous microorganisms involved in the fermentation process, including the addition of specific molds, yeasts, and bacteria under controlled conditions aiming to standardize the fermentation process, (2) an exploration of the functionality of the microorganisms and the subproducts generated during their metabolic process, and (3) an analysis of the nutritional value of the fermented beverages. Hence, this review aims at contributing to the dissemination of biotechnological knowledge of Mexican fermented beverages, towards the identification and advancement of alternative research pathways.

Keywords: Endogenous microorganisms; Fermentation; Food preservation; Functional foods; Natural antimicrobials; Probiotics.