Activation of the lower fatty acids by propionic acid bacteria

Abstract

H activation of lower fatty acids by Propionibacterium, using 3 acceptors, has been studied by determining the Eh of the systems. Acetic and propionic acids were activated to reduce methylene blue; formic, butyric and valeric acids were activated only slightly or not at all. The results are of importance in relation to the propionic fermentation.