Discovery of Novel Lactic Acid Bacteria Strains in Hibiscus Sabdariffa L. Calyces

Strategic Insights -

Researchers from the National Technological Institute of Mexico have made a significant discovery in the field of chemistry by isolating and identifying native lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from Hibiscus sabdariffa L. calyces, which are potential sources of novel strains for fermented food development. The study aimed to determine the presence and bacterial diversity in Hibiscus calyces and to characterize their technological properties for potential food application. The research received financial support from the Secretaria de Ciencia, Humanidades, Tecnologia e Innovacion of Mexico (Secihti).

Key Takeaways:

  • The study isolated nine LAB strains from Hibiscus calyces, including Leuconostoc, Bacillus, Limosilactobacillus, Lentilactobacillus, Enterococcus, and Lactococcus genera.
  • The isolated bacteria exhibited varying levels of tolerance to refrigeration, freezing, and pasteurization conditions, with isolate JC3 (Bacillus velezensis) showing exceptional growth parameters and thermal tolerance.
  • The researchers evaluated the susceptibility/resistance of the isolated bacteria to 12 antibiotics, with isolate JC3 being susceptible to all tested antibiotics.
  • The study highlights the potential of Hibiscus calyces as a valuable source of diverse native LAB and related strains with promising technological traits.
  • Further research is required to confirm the probiotic potential of these bacteria and ensure their safety for human consumption.

Statistics:

  • 9 LAB strains were isolated from Hibiscus calyces.
  • 12 antibiotics were tested against the isolated bacteria.
  • 63°C/30 min and 72°C/15 s pasteurization conditions were used to assess the thermal tolerance of the bacteria.
  • Isolate JC3 (Bacillus velezensis) reached exceptional growth parameters and exhibited tolerance to pasteurization thermal conditions.

Sources:

  • Lactic Acid Bacteria and Related Strains Isolated From Hibiscus Sabdariffa L. Calyces: From Isolation To Evaluation of Technological Potential. Letters in Applied Microbiology, 2025;78(9).
  • Letters in Applied Microbiology, Oxford Univ Press, Great Clarendon St, Oxford OX2 6DP, England (Wiley-Blackwell - www.wiley.com/; Letters in Applied Microbiology - onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/(ISSN)1472-765X).