Lactic acid bacteria sequential fermentation improves viable counts and quality of fermented apple juice via generating two logarithmic phases

This study investigated the impact of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) sequential fermentation on viable counts and apple juice quality. The optimal fermentation conditions were obtained by a step-by-step optimization process, including pH 4.5, temperature 37 °C, the second inoculation time 16 h, total fermentation time 40 h and fermentation sequence (first 21,805 + 21,828, second 20,241). Under the optimal conditions, sequential fermentation allowed LAB to experience two logarithmic phases, increasing viable counts to 1.38 × 108 CFU/mL, exceeding simultaneous fermentation for 24 h and 40 h by 4.10 × 107 CFU/mL and 5.40 × 107 CFU/mL, respectively. This process enhanced sugar utilization, yielding more lactic acid and polyphenols. Furthermore, sequential fermentation improved DPPH (71.71 %) and ABTS (84.79 %) scavenging rates, and enriched volatile compounds, particularly beta-Damascenone, potentially contributing to floral and richer apple flavor. Sequential fermentation also achieved optimal sensory acceptability. This study proposes a novel strategy for high-density LAB fermentation to produce high-quality apple juice. [Display omitted] •Sequential fermentation increases viable counts of Lactobacillus in apple juice.•Sequential fermentation allows Lactobacillus to exhibit two log phases.•Sequential fermentation promotes biotransformation in apple juice.•Fermented apple juice markedly enhances the antioxidant activity.•Fermented apple juice preserves and generates more volatile compounds.