Physiological properties, survivability and genomic characteristics of Pediococcus pentosaceus for application as a starter culture

There is an increasing demand for the use of Pediococcus pentosaceus in the dairy industry due to its remarkable abilities as a probiotic or starter culture bacterium. This study determines the physiological, survivability and genomic properties of P. pentosaceus to evaluate its potential as a starter culture. The strain showed great tolerance in low pH and high concentrations of bile salts. A good coaggregation ability against pathogens ranging between 71% and 84%, as well as strong biofilm formation ability and remarkable resistance to antibiotics. Whole‐genome sequence results reveal the presence of various genes responsible for stress tolerance, adhesion, biofilm formation, acids, and bile salts tolerance. The findings of this study can be used as essential criteria for selecting P. pentosaceus as a starter culture.