ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Lactic acid bacteria

Okay kiddo, have you ever heard of something called yogurt? It's a yummy food that you might have for breakfast or a snack. Well, the stuff that makes yogurt thick and tangy is made by tiny living things called lactic acid bacteria.

These bacteria are so small that you can't see them with your eyes, but they are very important for making lots of foods that we eat. They are called "lactic acid" bacteria because they make a type of acid called lactic acid. This acid is what makes yogurt and other soured foods taste sour.

But don't worry, these bacteria are actually good for us! They live in our bodies too, especially in our tummies. They help us digest our food and keep us healthy.

So the next time you eat yogurt or sourdough bread or sauerkraut, remember that those delicious flavors are thanks to the hardworking lactic acid bacteria.