Formation and resuscitation of viable but non-culturable (VBNC) yeast in the food industry: A review

The viable but non-culturable (VBNC) state is a survival strategy adopted by microorganisms in response to unfavorable conditions in the environment. VBNC cells are unable to form colonies but still maintain a low level of activity, posing a potential threat to food safety and public health. Therefore, the development of effective strategies to prevent the formation and resuscitation of VBNC cells of microorganisms is a key challenge in food science and microbiology research. However, current research on VBNC cells has primarily focused on bacteria, with relatively limited reports on fungi. This paper provides a comprehensive and systematic review of yeast in the VBNC state, discussing various factors that induce and facilitate resuscitation, along with detection methods and formation and recovery mechanisms. A comprehensive understanding of the induction and resuscitation of yeast in the VBNC state and exploration of its molecular mechanism hold significant implications for food safety and public health. It is imperative to enhance our comprehension of the underlying mechanisms and contributory factors pertaining to VBNC yeast, thereby facilitating the efficient management of the food fermentation process and ensuring the integrity of food quality and safety. •The various factors that induce and facilitate resuscitation were discussed.•The detection methods of VBNC yeast were described.•The underlying formation and recovery mechanisms of VBNC yeast were outlined.•This review provides a valuable reference for improving food quality and safety.