Lipolytic Microorganisms

microorganisms that are able to decompose vegetable and animal fats with the release of a considerable amount of energy. Among the lipolytic microorganisms are aerobic and anerobic bacteria of the genera Pseudomonas, Clostridium, and mold fungi (Penicillium, Cladosporium, and Aspergillus). The fat decomposition, which for the microorganisms is a source of carbon only (fats do not contain nitrogen), begins through lipase enzymes acting on the fats and is accompanied by the formation of glycerol, fatty acids, and water. Lipolytic microorganisms cause damage to food products and industrial materials that contain fats, for example, ordinary butter, fish, meat, edible vegetable oils, and drying oils.