From lactic acid fermentations of produce (such as kimchi and sauerkraut), to fermenting of dairy (cheese, yogurt, etc.), to the curing and smoking of fish and meat are all proven, effective methods and technologies humans have relied on through the ages to alter the intrinsic properties of foods and extend their consumability.

On one side of the food and beverage processing industry, food manufacturers have been tasked with solving issues of food and ingredient safety and security. From the other side, consumers are more closely scrutinizing the ingredients and processes involved in the food products they purchase.