Ingredient

Lactic Acid Started Culture

Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Manufacturers use lactic acid started cultures to produce a tangy flavor and to help …

What it is

Lactic acid started culture is a mixture of live bacteria, typically from the Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, or Streptococcus genera. These bacteria are used to ferment milk or other ingredients, producing lactic acid. This process is a traditional method for developing flavor and texture in foods.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use lactic acid started cultures to produce a tangy flavor and to help preserve foods by lowering pH. They are commonly found in dairy products like cheese and yogurt, as well as in fermented meats such as pepperoni and salami, and some baked goods.

Health notes

Lactic acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a natural substance produced during metabolism and is also used as a food additive. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated lactic acid and its salts, and have established acceptable daily intakes. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from typical dietary consumption.

Allergen info

Lactic acid started cultures are not derived from any of the 9 major allergens. They do not contain gluten.

Products containing Lactic Acid Started Culture

Compare products →

Sort by: Sugar Protein Sodium Calories

Ahold USA, Inc. Pepperoni Pepperoni, Salami & Cold Cuts High in sodium — 24% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 467kcal 20Protein 46.7Fat 3.3Carbs Hormel Foods Corporation Hormel, Turkey Pepperoni, Smoke Pepperoni, Salami & Cold Cuts High in sodium — 28% DV per serving 233kcal 30Protein 13.3Fat 0Carbs Hansen's Dairy, Inc. Tavern-Style Pizza, Pepperoni Pizza High in sodium — 36% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 50% DV per serving 280kcal 14.4Protein 15.9Fat 18.9Carbs R&J Specialty Foods Classic Artisan Crust Pepperoni Pizza Pizza High in sodium — 40% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 221kcal 10.3Protein 10.3Fat 22.1Carbs Shullsburg Creamery II, LLC Beef Sticks Other Snacks 391kcal 17.4Protein 34.8Fat 4.3Carbs Strauss Brands Incorporated Uncured Beef Summer Sausage Sausages, Hotdogs & Brats High in sodium — 22% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving 357kcal 16.1Protein 32.1Fat 1.8Carbs Shullsburg Creamery II, LLC Hardwood Smoked Beef Sticks, Hardwood Smoked Beef Other Snacks High in sodium — 20% DV per serving 289kcal 26.3Protein 18.4Fat 2.6Carbs Drexler Associates, Inc. Provolone Cheese, Pepperoni, Crackers Protein Snack, Provolone Lunch Snacks & Combinations High in sodium — 73% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 110% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 38% DV per serving 415kcal 22.5Protein 34.5Fat 0Carbs Busseto Foods, Inc. Salami Snack Cups Pepperoni, Salami & Cold Cuts 357kcal 32.1Protein 25Fat 0Carbs Vermont Smoke & Cure, Inc. Hickory Smoked Uncured Bacon Mini Pork Sticks, Hickory Smoked Other Snacks 393kcal 21.4Protein —Fat 10.7Carbs Shullsburg Creamery II, LLC Hardwood Smoked Beef Sticks, Hardwood Smoked Other Snacks High in sodium — 20% DV per serving 289kcal 26.3Protein 18.4Fat 2.6Carbs

ZZITTO LLC Pepperoni Cupcake, Pepperoni Pizza 315kcal 9.3Protein 14.8Fat 31.5Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.