About this Research Topic
Since its first description in 1993, the Weissella genus has been highly studied and its role in food and feed fermentation processes has been highlighted. Recently, studies based on phylogenetic and phylogenomic analyses led to a reclassification of this genus, with some species that have been moved to the novel genus Periweissella. Both these genera include lactic acid bacteria with demonstrated biotechnological and probiotic features. However, despite their potential use in food and health, Weissella and Periweissella have not obtained the Qualified Presumption of Safety (QPS) or the Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status, recognized by the FDA and EFSA respectively, due to some species being associated with infections in humans and animals.
Methods for Weissella and Periweissella spp. detection and identification need to be updated considering the taxonomic re-assessment of these genera. Furthermore, their ecological role need to be better elucidated and the evaluation of the technological and probiotic potential is needed. In addition, safety assessments of species within these genera deserve further in depth investigations. Therefore, this Research Topic will encompass a range of updated studies on taxonomy, ecology, detection, as well as on technological, functional and safety aspects of the Weissella and Periweissella genera for their application in food and health.
Original Research, Reviews, Mini Reviews, Perspectives and Opinion articles on these themes are welcome to further understanding of the Weissella and Periweissella genera.
Methods for Weissella and Periweissella spp. detection and identification need to be updated considering the taxonomic re-assessment of these genera. Furthermore, their ecological role need to be better elucidated and the evaluation of the technological and probiotic potential is needed. In addition, safety assessments of species within these genera deserve further in depth investigations. Therefore, this Research Topic will encompass a range of updated studies on taxonomy, ecology, detection, as well as on technological, functional and safety aspects of the Weissella and Periweissella genera for their application in food and health.
Original Research, Reviews, Mini Reviews, Perspectives and Opinion articles on these themes are welcome to further understanding of the Weissella and Periweissella genera.
Keywords: Weissella, taxonomy, biotechnology, safety assessment, lactic acid bacteria, probiotics, fermentation, Periweissella
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