Fermentation

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Fermentation

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun

Pronunciation

fer-men-TAY-shun  /ˌfəːmɛnˈteɪʃ(ə)n/

Definition

The chemical breakdown of a substance by micro-organisms such as bacteria or yeasts, especially the process of sugar being converted into ethyl alcohol and carbon dioxide by yeasts in the making of beer, wine, and bread.

Plain meaning

The biological process by which micro-organisms transform sugars into alcohol, acid, or gases — the science behind bread, wine, beer, cheese, and fermented foods.

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Technical in chemistry, biology, and food science. Standard and accessible in culinary and popular usage.