An insight into indigenous fermented foods for the tropics

Fermentation is the oldest form of biotechnology process borne out of the need to extend the keeping quality of food materials. These subsequently derived fermented food products are consumed daily, and the three major continents of the tropics (Africa, Asia, and South America) have the richest diversity of these food products in the globe. These fermented foods are vital to the survival of inhabitants of these regions, providing staples, used as adjuncts, part of diets, and also represent part of the culture and heritage of tropical nations. This chapter briefly provides an insight into these food products available in Africa, Asia, and South America, with a description of the contents of the different sections in the book.