In the rapidly evolving field of functional food ingredients, microbial-derived metabolites stand out due to their potential to significantly enhance human health. These metabolites are produced by a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and yeasts, and encompass a wide range of substances such as vitamins, amino acids, and other bioactive compounds. Historically, their role was primarily confined to fermentation processes, where they improved food safety and nutritional value. However, recent developments in microbial biotechnology have widened their applications, positioning them as key components in the creation of functional foods designed to improve gut health, strengthen immune response, and mitigate inflammation.

This research topic is dedicated to probing the capacities of microbial-derived metabolites as functional food ingredients. Notably, it seeks to navigate the complexities related to their manufacturing, stability, and approval within regulatory frameworks. Leveraging cutting-edge genomic and fermentation techniques offers promising strategies to scale up production and reduce costs, facilitating broader use in the food sector. Investigation into the health-enhancing mechanisms of these metabolites, as well as their effect on human gut microbiota and integration into various food systems, is expected to advance dietary solutions and nutritional practices significantly.

To deepen our understanding of microbial-derived metabolites in food applications, this Research Topic encourages a diverse array of contributions. Encompassed within this scope are:

• Biotechnological advancements for enhancing metabolite production
• Investigation into the health effects and functionality of specific metabolites
• The use microbial metabolites alone and in postbiotics form in development of functional foods
• The application of microbial metabolites and postbiotics in food safety and preservation technologies
• Comprehensive case studies on their integration into consumable products
• Insight into regulatory landscapes and strategies for compliance
• Analysis of consumer perceptions and industry trends

Contributions in the form of original research, thorough reviews, and concise mini-reviews are invited. These should offer valuable perspectives and empirical data, enriching the discourse on how microbial-derived metabolites can elevate food functionality and safety.

Topic Editor Paul Cotter received financial support from Abbott, PepsiCo, Yakult, Lallemand and H&H to attend/present at scientific meetings/conferences and is the Head of Microbiology and a co-founder of SeqBiome Ltd. Research in the Cotter laboratory has been funded by Friesland Campina, PrecisionBiotics Group, PepsiCo and Danone. The other Topic Editors report no competing interests related to this Research Topic.

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Microbial Derived Metabolites as Emerging Functional Ingredients in Food