What Does Fermentation Mean?

Fermentation is a process by which plants create energy without using oxygen. Normally this occurs by way of cellular respiration, but in the absence of oxygen, plants and other life forms such as bacteria and fungi undergo fermentation. During respiration, carbon dioxide and water are produced in concert with energy; during fermentation, carbon dioxide is still produced, but instead of water, lactic acid is produced.

The fermentation process is sometimes known as “zymosis” due to the presence of the enzyme “zymase” produced under certain conditions. Fermentation is plants is often not an ideal situation, and often occurs in the presence of too much water, especially in the root zone.


Maximum Yield Explains Fermentation

The fermentation process is used in many commercial industries using plant materials to produce finished products. The process is used to make many alcoholic beverages such as wines, ciders, beers, and other “hard” liquors. It's also used in the production of vinegar. Teas and tobaccos are refined by way of fermentation and of course, fermentation is vital to the making of breads with yeast.

In other areas of agriculture, fermentation is the process that produces fodder for many animals by way of silage. It's also a necessary action for the making of dairy products. Fermentation is also a part of the process of the preparation of animal hides.




Share this Term

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter

Related Reading


Root HealthBotanyPlant Science

Trending Articles

Go back to top
Maximum Yield Logo


Please confirm your date of birth:

This feature requires cookies to be enabled