The objective of this study was to isolate, identify, and evaluate novel Korean
starter cultures for use in fermented sausages. A total of 72 strains were
isolated from various indigenous sources, including Nuruk, Jeotgal, and mudflats
on the west coast of South Korea. Two strains were identified as
Penicillium nalgiovense
(SD01 and SJ02), a traditional
starter used in the production of fermented sausages. A comparative analysis was
performed between SD01 and SJ02 using the commercial starter culture (M600).
Strain SJ02 exhibited superior lipolytic and proteolytic activities, as well as
an enhanced growth rate at the optimal salinity level of 2% NaCl compared to
M600. No significant differences were observed in thiobarbituric acid reactive
substances values, sausage colors, and texture properties between SJ02 and M600
fermented sausages, except for adhesiveness. Profiles of mycotoxin-related genes
were similar for both strains. Electronic nose analysis revealed distinct aroma
profiles between SJ02 and M600 fermented sausages, with a relatively higher
levels of propan-2-one and butyl butanoate in SJ02, and a higher level of
ethanol and propanal in M600. In electronic tongue analysis, there was no
significant differences in taste characteristics between SJ02 and M600. These
results indicate that
P. nalgiovense
SJ02 is a potential
starter culture to produce dry fermented sausages, enhancing Korean style cured
meat processing industry.