Taking a bite out of food waste: Scientists repurpose waste bread to feed microbes

Food waste is a serious economic and environmental problem. Researchers have developed a protocol using waste bread as a medium to grow microorganisms for the fermented food industry. They tested more than 40 different kinds of growing conditions to find the best combination that would maximize bread waste and cut costs compared to conventional media. The patent-pending process can be used in industrial bakeries, dairies and wineries, among other possible applications.