Question

Identify the organism responsible for the formation of holes in the product shown in the image below.

• A. Penicillium roqueforti
• B. Penicillium camemberti
• C. Propionibacterium sharmanii
• D. Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Answer 1

The correct option is C Propionibacterium sharmanii

There are several varieties of cheese prepared by the fermentation of milk by different microbes of choice. The image of the product given in the question is that of Swiss cheese.

After curdling the milk using lactic acid bacteria, the moisture is removed from the curd and salt is added to it. The curd is then allowed to ripen under the action of Propionibacterium sharmanii. The bacteria acts on lactic acid producing propionic acid and carbon dioxide. The production of a large amount of carbon dioxide causes large holes. These holes are also called eyes.



Camembert cheese is obtained from the cow's milk. This cheese is ripened by the action of Penicillium camemberti. This cheese is known for its smooth texture.

Penicillium roqueforti is used for the ripening of Roquefort cheese.

Saccharomyces cerevisiae is used for bread and wine making.

So, the correct answer is Propionibacterium sharmanii.