Ingredient

Microbial Cultures

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Source
Unknown
Not yet classified by editors
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use microbial cultures to produce fermented foods like yogurt, cheese, and sourdough bread, …

What it is

Microbial cultures are collections of beneficial microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeasts. They are often grown in a laboratory on specific food ingredients, like milk or grains, to produce desired compounds or characteristics. These cultures are living organisms used to ferment or modify food.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use microbial cultures to produce fermented foods like yogurt, cheese, and sourdough bread, and to add specific flavors and textures. They can also act as probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. You'll find them in dairy products, baked goods, and fermented vegetables.

Health notes

Microbial cultures are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. Many are considered probiotics, which may offer health benefits, particularly for gut health, though research is ongoing. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated various microbial cultures. Evidence for specific health benefits can vary depending on the strain and the food product.

Allergen info

Microbial cultures themselves are not typically considered major allergens. However, if they are grown on or in a medium containing major allergens (like milk or soy), cross-contamination is possible. Check product labels for specific allergen warnings.

Products containing Microbial Cultures

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FRESH & EASY Fresh & Easy, Cheesy Garlic Bread Breads & Buns High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving 306kcal 5.9Protein 17.6Fat 29.4Carbs Deep Foods Inc. The Original Naan Pizza, Jalapeno Pizza High in sodium — 23% DV per serving 205kcal 8.0Protein 2.7Fat 36.6Carbs Prayer Works International The Organic Cinnamon Coffee Cake Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 357kcal 5.4Protein 12.5Fat 53.6Carbs Prayer Works International Coffee Cake, Chocolate Chips Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 377kcal 5.7Protein 17.0Fat 52.8Carbs Prayer Works International Organic Coffeecake, Cinnamon Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 388kcal 6.1Protein 14.3Fat 59.2Carbs Prayer Works International Organic Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 375kcal 5.4Protein 16.1Fat 53.6Carbs Deep Foods Inc. The Original Naan Pizza, Eggplant Pizza High in sodium — 23% DV per serving 252kcal 10.2Protein 4.7Fat 41.7Carbs Cooperative Regions of Organic Producer Pools Organic Valley, Cultured Pasture Butter Butter & Spread High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving 786kcal 0Protein 85.7Fat 0Carbs Bakkavor Foods USA Inc. Meatloaf & Mashed Potatoes With Tomato Gravy Meal Other Deli High in sodium — 77% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 95% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 61% DV per serving 209kcal 10.6Protein 12.9Fat 11.5Carbs CIY Foods Inc Beef Pot Roast With Roasted Vegetables & Rosemary Jus Meal Kit, Beef Pot Roast With Roasted Vegetables & Rosemary Jus Other Deli High in sodium — 32% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 25% DV per serving 114kcal 7.0Protein 4.6Fat 10.9Carbs Lightly Salted Cultured Pasture Butter, Lightly Salted Cooperative Regions of Organic Producer Pools Lightly Salted Cultured Pasture Butter, Lightly Salted Butter & Spread High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving 786kcal 0Protein 85.7Fat 0Carbs CIY Foods Inc Well-Marbled Top Blade Steak Is Cooked Slowly In The Oven With Root Vegetables, Red Wine, And Rosemary Until Rich And Tender Meal Kit, Beef Pot Roast With Roasted Vegetables & Rosemary Jus Other Deli High in sodium — 32% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 25% DV per serving 114kcal 7.0Protein 4.6Fat 10.9Carbs
Salt (14 products) Milk (11 products) Water (9 products) Sugar (7 products) Garlic (6 products) Tomatoes (6 products) Pasteurized Organic Sweet Cream (6 products) Sea Salt (6 products) Butter (6 products) Natural Flavors (6 products)

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.