Which substances did Louis Pasteur study while investigating fermentation?

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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