Britannica
Sources used in this answer
Which substances did Louis Pasteur study while investigating fermentation?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Louis Pasteur
In the 19th century Louis Pasteur's work established the germ theory of disease, proving that microorganisms cause fermentation and sickness, which led to the development of pasteurization, aseptic techniques in medicine, and effective vaccines for diseases such as rabies. (Painting by Albert Edelfelt, 1885.)
While investigating the process of fermentation, Louis Pasteur conducted extensive research into several specific substances and chemical compounds. His studies included:
- Alcohol: Pasteur began his research by examining problems related to alcoholic production at a local distillery.12
- Lactic acid: He investigated the production of this compound, which is responsible for the souring of milk.12
- Butyric acid: He conducted detailed studies on butyric acid fermentation, which led to his discovery of the Pasteur effect and the distinction between aerobic and anaerobic organisms.13
Through this work, Pasteur demonstrated that specific microorganisms are associated with each particular type of fermentation, providing the foundation for the germ theory of fermentation.12