Yeasts and bacteria are the pioneers of life on earth. They are present everywhere in our environment, and they make the fermented foods and drinks that are at the heart of cuisines around the world. From hanging game to “age” in prehistoric times to the latest technological research, the methods of fermentation have been greatly refined but the principle remains the same: we rely on living organisms to improve taste and human nutrition. Through the exploration of food history that is almost as old as humanity, and an overview of key products — including bread, cheese, wine, beer,...