Microorganisms can cause harm in the form of diseases, but they also have beneficial uses -- and not just in medicine. This program explores various ways that microbes are utilized in food preparation and production. First highlighting the naturally occurring microbial value of milk, which provides mammal offspring with the bacteria needed to build immune systems, the film offers several examples of microbe use in the culinary arts. Topics include fermentation in bread baking, beer brewing, and wine making as well as the microbial aspects of creating cheese, yogurt, and other foods. Detailed processes involving yeast are shown at a bakery, a microbrewery, a cheese-making facility, and other locations.

Encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on Aug. 26, 2010. Learn360 is distributed by Infobase for Films for the Humanities & Sciences, Cambridge Educational, Meridian Education, and Shopware.

Journey to the Origins of Life (2:00) -- What are Micro-Organisms? (3:33) -- Bread Making (5:45) -- Beer Brewing (7:36) -- Cheese Making (8:38) -- Salami Making (5:15) -- Appreciating Micro-organisms (0:37) -- Credits: Using Microbes in Food (0:45).