Abstract: Dough useful for the preparation of dry bakery products, particulary crackers, is prepared by the addition to the dough of a bakery ingredient prepared by fermentation of cereal germs with lactic acid producing bacteria. The fermentation is preferably carried out with Lactobacilli, such as Lactobacillus plantarum. During the fermentation yeast and/or enzymes such as proteases and carbohydrases may be added to the fermentation mixture. After fermentation, the mixture is preferably concentrated or converted into a dry product which can be easily shipped, stored and handled. The bakery ingredient leads to a simplified and shorter process for preparing dry cereal products and improved product properties. For cracker manufacture, the traditional sponge step can be omitted.

Abstract: The invention concerns dough as well as a process for the preparation of dry bakery products, particularly crackers, comprising the addition to the dough of a bakery ingredient prepared by fermentation of cereal germs with lactic acid producing bacteria. The fermentation is preferably carried out with Lactobacilli, such as Lactobacillus plantarum. During the fermentation yeast and/or enzymes such as proteases and carbohydrases may be added to the fermentation mixture. After the fermentation the mixture is preferably concentrated or converted into a dry product which can be easily shipped stored and handled.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for preparing a baking improver based on fermented cereal germs. Such a baking improver can alleviate some of the negative side effects in dough handling properties associated with dough rich in gluten. As an additional benefit, the baking improver contributes to the flavour and/or aroma of baked goods. Preferred cereals for this purpose are wheat, barley and rye.