Analysis on human fecal microbiome exposed to vinegar powder
This study investigated the impact of vinegar powder on short-chain fatty acid metabolism by the gut microbiota in vitro. At 24 h after adding vinegar powder, Bifidobacteriaceae and Enterococcaceae increased, suggesting strengthened lactate/acetate production, while Lachnospiraceae, a representative butyrate-producing family, decreased. By 48 h, Megasphaera, a propionate-associated bacterium, increased. The enhancement of lactate production may have promoted the growth of Megasphaera, a bacterium that utilizes lactate, thereby leading to increased propionate levels. Additionally, vinegar powder decreased ammonia levels. These findings indicate that vinegar powder transiently reshapes microbial composition and modulates fermentation pathways, highlighting its potential to direct microbial metabolism beyond simple acetate supplementation.