Microbial biofortification of fermented foods: a review of probiotic-mediated nutrient enhancement.

2026-02-12
Frontiers in nutrition 13
- Fahad Saad Alhodieb

PubMed: 41769659
DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2026.1754233

Microbial biofortification via probiotic fermentation is a unique solution to reducing micronutrient deficiencies worldwide and it is a sustainable approach to prevention and German fermentation is widely applicable for plant-based diets as these micronutrients, such as B12 and K, are hardly present. Fermentative microbes such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Propionibacterium synthesis of the vitamins like folate, riboflavin, vitamin K. They also facilitate the accessibility of minerals and increase the quality of proteins in many foods. This process not only enhances vitamins and minerals as a result of antinutrient such as phytate breakdown, but also bioactive peptides and short-chain fatty acids are produced. These are beneficial compounds for gut health and are helpful to the health of the immune system. Studies in labs, animals, and humans indicate that consumption of biofortified fermented foods increases micronutrient levels, promotes gut microbial balance, and increases immunity. In order to exploit this approach to its fullest potential, there are hurdles to overcome, ensuring that the strain remains viable, enhancing product taste, and overcoming regulatory hurdles. Future advances will require engineering strains of probiotics to produce even greater amounts of vitamins and implementing personalized microbiome information, as well as their public health interventions, in resource-limited situations.

Research Insights

Supplement	Health Outcome	Effect Type	Effect Size
Bifidobacterium plantarum	Improved Gut Microbiota Balance	Beneficial	Moderate
Bifidobacterium plantarum	Improved Immune Function	Beneficial	Small
Bifidobacterium plantarum	Improved Micronutrient Status	Beneficial	Moderate
Bifidobacterium plantarum	Reduced Antinutrient Levels	Beneficial	Moderate