Abstract: A quality improver for producing bread, comprising at least one component (i) selected from malt, rice fermentation product, and wheat fermentation product and (ii) biotin. Preferably it further contains mevalonolactone and/or mevalonic acid or a lactic acid fermentation product of soy bean. A seed dough is obtained by kneading cereal powder, yeast, and the quality improver for producing bread and subjecting the mixture to primary fermentation. The bread has a sufficient volume, a good shape, a soft feeling upon eating, a good flavor (fragrance and taste), excellent storage stability and contains vitamins, proteins and minerals abundantly. The seed dough containing the quality improver can be circulated.

Abstract: A fermentation product of sesame with antioxidative properties is provided. This product is useful for use as a food. The fermented sesame is produced by digesting crushed raw whole seed sesame with an enzyme derived from Rhizopus oligosporus, followed by lactic acid fermentation.