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Abstract bacteria Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are groups of related bacteria that produce lactic acid as a result of carbohydrate fermentation (Arimah et al., 2014). LAB possess some common morphological, metabolic and physiological characteristics (Sahnouni et al., 2012). The general description of the bacteria included in the group is Gram-positive, non-sporulating, catalase negative, rods and cocci (Ibourahema et al., 2008). Due to their lack of pathogenicity, most LAB are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) organisms (Mahantesh et al., 2010). 1.1.1. Distribution LAB are widely distributed in different ecosystems and are found in many dairy products, fermented meats, vegetables, sourdough, silage, beverages, sewage, plants and also in the genital, gastro intestinal (GI) and respiratory tracts of man and animals (Savadogo et al., 2006). LAB are closely associated with the human environment, as they are used for the production of a wide variety of fermented food products, in which they contribute to the improvement of flavor, texture and shelf-life. They also help in keeping microbial quality by producing antimicrobial substances in dairy products (Sahnouni et al., 2012).They have complex nutritional requirements for amino acids, peptides, nucleotide bases, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and carbohydrates, and may grow under anaerobic and aerobic conditions (Khalid 2011). LAB are mesophilic with optimal temperature of growth between 30°C and 40 °C and optimum pH of 5.5-5.8 (Kocková et al., 2011). 1.1.2. Dairy products Dairy products are foods rich in many nutrients that may be enhancing health and beneficial in preventing different diseases. In terms of health they play a role in promoting normal growth and healthy bones and teeth (Mahmoud et al., 2008). For diseases it has been known to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of high blood pressure, particularly when included as part of a dietary pattern that is low in fat and rich in fruits and vegetables (Reusser and McCarran 1994). Dairy products are sources of at least four different minerals/electrolytes (calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium) (Mahmoud et al., 2008). Recently, a number of novel fermented dairy products and infant milk powder have been developed and are being marketed under the name of probiotic products (Dardir 2012). Probiotic cultures have been associated historically with cultures of milks and dairy products, from which there is substantial evidence for positive effects on human health and general well-being (Nowroozi et al., 2004). Egyptian dairy products such as Karish cheese (skimmed milk cheese, Mish (pickled ripened Karish cheese), Zabady (yogurt) and Laban Rayeb (concentrated sour milk) are a good valuable sources of LAB bacteria with new important industrial properties and genetic biodiversity (Mabrouk et al. |