MICROBIAL FOODS FOR IMPROVING HUMAN HEALTH

Microbial foods, fermented products, probiotics, have long been integral to human diets and are now at the scientific research for their potential to improve both human and planetary health.These foods promote gut microbiota balance, enhance immune function, and contribute essential nutrients offering sustainable alternatives to animal-based products.Advances in biotechnology have further expanded the scope of microbial foods, production of engineered probiotics and fermented proteins with targeted health benefits.This review synthesizes current knowledge on the diverse types of microbial foods, the key microorganisms involved, and their mechanisms of gut barrier integrity and immune responses to influences on metabolic health and the gutbrain axis.Clinical evidence supports their efficacy in managing gastrointestinal disorders, metabolic diseases, immune-related conditions, and mental health.Despite their challenges related to product stability, safety in populations, and regulatory frameworks remain.Looking forward, personalized microbiome-based nutrition, synthetic biology, and integration with plant-based diets offer exciting harness to microbial foods for sustainable nutrition and preventive healthcare.Overall, microbial foods represent a vital component in building resilient food systems that support the health of people and the planet.