Introduction to Food Microbiology

Almost all peoples make and enjoy fermented beverages, some of which are produced in unusual ways such as having old women chew up and spit the raw material into containers to aid in the fermentation process. Certain countries consider dog and cat meat a special treat, and monkeys including chimps 98.6% genetically human and rats are a common food for many humans around the world. The expensive steaks you purchase in fine restaurants are juicy and tender because they have been hung in the cold room long enough to allow a thick layer of mold to cover the sides of beef; the mold releases proteases that tenderize the meat you can purchase similar proteases in the store and sprinkle than on your steaks. As I discuss the industrial production of food, it is a good idea to consider the differences between people in a positive light and appreciate that other societies find some of our dietary preferences as disgusting as we find theirs.