Looking backward and forward at the practical applications of genetic researches on lactic acid bacteria

Background research findings which have led to current knowledge on the genetics of lactic acid bacteria are reviewed. Important early contributions by researchers with other microorganisms are highlighted to acknowledge milestone discoveries, especially those which have made genetic engineering of industrially important genera a reality. Current genetics in the dairy Streptococcus, Lactobacillus, Pediococcus, Leuconostoc, Bifidobacterium and Propionibacterium genera are discussed. Regulatory, environmental, and research funding concerns also are discussed.