Table 1_Untargeted metabolomics reveals distinct metabolic profiles and putative bioactive metabolites in cell-free supernatants of food-grade microorganisms.xlsx

Each strain displayed a distinctive metabolomic signature enriched in metabolites previously associated in the literature with potential biological activities. Collectively, the identified compounds have been linked to antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, neuroactive, antioxidant, epithelial-supportive, and metabolic functions. However, the present study did not include direct functional validation of these activities, and the proposed biological relevance of the detected metabolites should therefore be considered putative and inferred from previous literature evidence.

Overall, untargeted metabolomics/lipidomics revealed that fermentation media derived from food-grade microorganisms represent a valuable and underexplored source of multifunctional metabolites with potential postbiotic applications. These findings support the concept of valorizing microbial fermentation by-products as sustainable reservoirs of biologically relevant molecules within a circular bioeconomy framework. In industrial settings, fermentation broths traditionally considered waste streams may be recovered and repurposed, potentially reducing disposal costs and environmental impact.

Furthermore, optimization of fermentation processes prior to large-scale metabolite production will be essential to maximize yield, improve process efficiency, and support their future development for nutraceutical and health-related applications.</p>