Lactobacillus plantarum

Lactobacillus plantarum is a species of lactic-acid bacteria. These are gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria that produce lactic acid as a primary byproduct of carbohydrate fermentation. Lactobacillus species, including L. plantarum, are crucial in the production of various fermented foods such as sauerkraut, pickles, yogurt, and some cheeses.12

These bacteria are found in animal feeds, milk, and the gastrointestinal tracts of animals and humans. L. plantarum is considered homofermentative, meaning lactic acid constitutes at least 85 percent of its metabolic end products when breaking down glucose. While generally beneficial in food production and as probiotics, lactic-acid bacteria can also contribute to dental caries and infections under certain conditions.21