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Bekasam is a traditional fermented fish product commonly produced in South Sumatra and South Kalimantan, known for its distinctive sour taste resulting from the metabolic activity of lactic acid bacteria (LAB). LAB play a crucial role in the fermentation process, contributing to the product’s flavor, texture, and safety. This study aimed to isolate, identify, and characterize LAB from bekasam made using tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Isolation of bacterial strains was performed using the pour plate method on Nutrient Agar (NA) medium at various serial dilutions to obtain discrete colonies. The colonies were observed macroscopically to assess their morphological characteristics, including shape, size, color, surface texture, and edge profile. Further identification involved Gram staining to determine cell wall type and microscopic morphology. The results revealed that the bacterial colonies were generally small, round, white to cream in color, with smooth surfaces and flat edges. Gram staining demonstrated that the dominant isolates were Gram-positive bacteria, exhibiting rod-shaped or oval morphology. These characteristics are consistent with members of the genus Lactobacillus sp., a common LAB group in fermented fish products. Additional phenotypic traits observed included catalase-negative reactions, absence of spore formation, and the ability to produce lactic acid as the main metabolic end product. The combination of morphological, staining, and basic biochemical characteristics supports the initial identification of the isolates as LAB. The presence of Lactobacillus sp. in bekasam suggests their significant contribution to the fermentation process, influencing the product’s sourness, safety, and preservation. The findings of this study provide a basis for further molecular characterization and potential selection of LAB strains as starter cultures to improve the quality, consistency, and safety of bekasam in traditional and industrial production.

Bekasam is a traditional fermented food made from snakehead fish (Channa striata) through spontaneous fermentation with the addition of salt and rice over several days. This fermentation process promotes the growth of indigenous microorganisms, particularly lactic acid bacteria (LAB), which play a crucial role in developing distinctive flavors and potentially providing health benefits. LAB are well-known for their probiotic effects, such as maintaining gut microbiota balance and enhancing immune system function. This study aimed to identify the presence of LAB in bekasam using the Gram staining method. Samples were taken from bekasam that had been fermented for three days. Bacterial isolation was conducted by culturing the samples on appropriate media, followed by Gram staining to observe bacterial morphology and cell wall characteristics under a microscope. Observations revealed a predominance of Gram-positive, rod-shaped (bacillus) bacteria, which are the primary morphological characteristics of LAB. This morphology is consistent with bacterial groups such as Lactobacillus spp., which are commonly found in traditional fermented products. These findings strengthen the assumption that snakehead fish–based bekasam is not only a traditional food source with rich flavors but also has potential as a natural probiotic source. This potential opens opportunities for bekasam to be developed as a functional food that supports digestive health and immune function. Further research is recommended to perform molecular identification to accurately determine bacterial species and to evaluate their probiotic activity in vivo. Thus, bekasam holds not only cultural and culinary value but also added value in the field of health and the functional food industry.

Pine soda is a natural fermented liquid from pine needles (Pinus merkusii) which has a distinctive aroma and contains bioactive compounds with potential as antimicrobial agents. This study aims to determine the antibacterial activity of pine soda against Staphylococcus aureus using the disc diffusion method and to compare its effectiveness with the antibiotic ampicillin as a positive control. The process of making pine soda is carried out through simple fermentation of Pinus merkusii pine needles under certain conditions to produce a fragrant liquid. Furthermore, qualitative tests are carried out to identify the content of bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, phenols, and essential oils, which are known to have antibacterial properties. In the antibacterial activity test, paper discs that have been soaked in pine soda solutions with graded concentrations (2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, and 10%) are placed on agar media that have been inoculated with S. aureus. The results of the observation showed the presence of inhibition zones in each treatment with varying sizes. The largest inhibition zone was obtained at a concentration of 10% with a diameter of 10 mm, which is included in the medium inhibition category. As a comparison, ampicillin produced an inhibition zone of 26.3 mm, while distilled water, the negative control, showed no inhibition zone. These findings indicate that the antibacterial activity of pine soda is influenced by its bioactive compound content, although its effectiveness is still lower than that of standard antibiotics. This potential opens up opportunities for developing pine soda as a safe natural antibacterial agent, whether in the form of health products such as antiseptics, natural cleaners, or functional beverages that support body health. Further research is needed to optimize the fermentation process, increase the concentration of active compounds, and test its effectiveness against various types of pathogenic bacteria.

Fermentation of ikan bekasam is a traditional process that involves the activity of microorganisms to produce a product with distinct taste, aroma, and texture. This process includes various microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and yeasts, that play a crucial role in the transformation of fish properties during fermentation. This study aims to isolate, identify, and characterize the microorganisms involved in the fermentation of ikan bekasam using Gram staining and specific staining techniques. The isolation process was carried out using selective media to grow microorganisms from the bekasam samples, including both the fish and the fermentation liquid. Microorganism identification was performed by observing colony morphology, microscopic characteristics, and biochemical reactions. Gram staining was used to differentiate between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, while specific staining techniques were employed to detect certain cellular structures that aid in the identification of microorganisms. The characterization of microorganisms included an analysis of their physiological and biochemical properties, such as their ability to produce enzymes or secondary metabolites that play a role in fermentation and the development of the characteristic bekasam flavor. The results of the study showed that ikan bekasam contains a variety of microorganisms, including lactic acid bacteria such as Lactobacillus spp. and Pediococcus spp., which play a primary role in fermentation by providing the characteristic sourness. In addition, yeasts such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae were found in the bekasam samples, contributing to the fermentation process. Fungi, such as Aspergillus spp., were also isolated, although their role in the fermentation of ikan bekasam is more limited. This study provides insights into the diversity of microorganisms involved in the fermentation of ikan bekasam and their potential applications in the food industry. These findings open up opportunities to optimize the fermentation process by utilizing these microorganisms to produce more consistent and high-quality bekasam. Future research could further explore the optimal conditions for improving the quality of this fermented product.

This study aims to examine the use of cattle waste as organic fertilizer to minimize agricultural operational costs in Mrawan Village, Tapen District, Bondowoso Regency. Cattle waste, particularly manure, is an abundant local resource that has not been optimally utilized by the local community. The majority of farmers in the village still rely on chemical fertilizers, which are relatively expensive and have a negative impact on long-term soil health. Therefore, this program is designed to provide a sustainable alternative solution through an educational approach and community empowerment. The methods used in this activity include outreach, technical training, and direct assistance in the process of making organic fertilizer from cow manure. Education focuses on simple fermentation techniques, the composition of natural additives, and appropriate fertilizer application methods. Farmers are actively involved in every stage of the activity, so they become not only beneficiaries but also agents of change in environmentally friendly agricultural practices. The results of the activity indicate that the use of organic fertilizer from cattle waste can reduce the cost of purchasing chemical fertilizers by up to 40% in a single planting season. In addition, organic fertilizer has been shown to increase soil fertility, improve soil structure, and support healthier plant growth. Environmental impacts are also reduced, as livestock waste management is more controlled and does not pollute water or air sources. Therefore, utilizing cattle waste as organic fertilizer not only reduces environmental pollution but also provides an economic and ecological solution that benefits local farmers. This program is expected to become a model for empowerment that can be replicated in other areas with similar characteristics.

Tempeh, as one of Indonesia's traditional fermented foods, plays a vital role in providing affordable vegetable protein and contains various essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, folic acid, and fiber. Tempeh's uniqueness lies in the fermentation process involving local microorganisms that thrive in soybeans. Tempeh from Bayung Lencir, South Sumatra, is known for its traditional production process, which uses no starter culture. This results in a unique microbiota that has not been widely studied during fermentation. Therefore, this study focused on identifying the microorganisms involved in the tempeh fermentation process. The results showed that Rhizopus oligosporus is the primary microorganism responsible for the formation of tempeh's texture and increasing its nutritional value through the production of proteolytic and lipolytic enzymes that aid in the digestion of protein and fat. Furthermore, lactic acid bacteria such as Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus spp. play a crucial role in creating a more acidic environment, thereby reducing the risk of pathogenic microorganism growth and maintaining product safety. However, an uncontrolled fermentation process can also result in contamination by harmful microorganisms, such as Aspergillus niger and Penicillium spp., which can affect the quality of tempeh and potentially produce mycotoxins that are harmful to health. The use of PDA media has proven effective in isolating and observing the morphological characteristics of fungi, such as colony color, texture, and growth rate. This medium provides adequate results in identifying microorganisms involved in the tempeh fermentation process. This research is important for maintaining the quality and safety of Bayung Lencir's signature tempeh and opens up opportunities for the development of local starter cultures that can improve quality control during the fermentation process. Molecular-based research is needed to further explore the identity of microbes and to improve the safety and competitiveness of tempeh in the global market.

Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) is a high-quality coconut oil that is extracted from fresh coconut meat without the use of high heat or chemicals, preserving its natural nutrients and beneficial properties. The demand for VCO has increased in recent years due to its various health benefits, such as boosting the immune system, improving digestion, and providing antimicrobial effects. The oil is rich in medium-chain fatty acids, particularly lauric acid, which is known for its positive effects on cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health. This study focuses on the production of VCO using a natural fermentation method, a traditional technique that is gaining attention for its simplicity and environmental friendliness. In this method, mature coconut meat is grated and squeezed to extract the coconut milk, which is then fermented at room temperature for 24–48 hours. The fermentation process allows the separation of the oil from the milk, forming a clear oil layer on top, which retains the characteristic aroma of coconut. The quality of the produced VCO was analyzed by determining its acid value and saponification number. The saponification value, which indicates the amount of alkali required to saponify the fat, was found to be 50.49. The acid value, which reflects the free fatty acid content, was measured at 5.61. These results suggest that the VCO produced through natural fermentation is of relatively good quality, with a favorable acid value indicating lower rancidity. Overall, the study demonstrates that natural fermentation is an efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective alternative for VCO production. This method not only preserves the natural properties of the coconut oil but also offers a sustainable approach to producing high-quality oil for various health and cosmetic applications.

Traditional bamboo shoot fermentation is a hereditary practice still preserved by the people of Panti Village, Pasaman Regency. This process not only serves as a natural preservation method but also makes an important contribution to the formation of distinctive flavors and increases the nutritional value of bamboo shoots. One key aspect of this fermentation process is the activity of microorganisms, particularly lactic acid bacteria, which play a role in the production of metabolites such as lactic acid, which functions as a natural preservative, inhibits the growth of pathogenic microbes, and contributes to the distinctive flavor and aroma of fermentation. The main objective of this study was to isolate and identify the types of lactic acid bacteria found in traditionally fermented bamboo shoots. Fermented bamboo shoot samples were taken from several local production houses in Panti Village. The microbial isolation process was carried out using selective media MRS (de Man, Rogosa, and Sharpe) agar, which is commonly used for the growth of lactic acid bacteria. The obtained isolates were then analyzed through colony morphology observation, Gram staining, and microscopic tests to determine initial characteristics. Further identification was carried out through a series of biochemical tests to determine the genus and species of the bacteria. The results of the study showed the presence of several Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterial isolates that are strongly suspected to belong to the lactic acid bacteria group, such as Lactobacillus plantarum. This bacterium is known to have probiotic potential and functional benefits in fermented food products. These findings indicate that traditional fermented bamboo shoots can be a potential source of functional bacterial isolates that are beneficial for the food industry, particularly in the development of probiotic products, natural preservatives, and food additives based on local fermentation. This study emphasizes the importance of preserving local wisdom in food fermentation practices as a foundation for sustainable, culturally aware food technology innovation and supporting food security based on local resources.

Black sticky rice tapai is a traditional Indonesian fermented food that has long been consumed by the public for its distinctive taste and high cultural value. However, with the increasing demand for functional foods and natural-based products that can support health, attention for black sticky rice tapai has shifted from being simply a traditional food to an object of scientific study in the nutraceutical field. Black sticky rice, the basic ingredient for tapai, contains important bioactive compounds such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, B-complex vitamins, and soluble fiber, which have been shown to play a role in lowering cholesterol levels, inhibiting LDL cholesterol oxidation, and increasing HDL cholesterol levels in the blood. The fermentation process further enhances the biological activity of these compounds, making black sticky rice tapai have a higher therapeutic value than ordinary black sticky rice. The purpose of this study was to examine the potential of black sticky rice tapai as a natural, tradition-based solution for lowering cholesterol levels, while also supporting the development of local foods into modern health products that are safe, effective, and affordable. The study was conducted using a descriptive literature review method of various scientific articles, textbooks, and relevant research results that discuss the nutritional content of black sticky rice, the benefits of fermentation, and the effect of active components on lipid metabolism. The study results show that regular consumption of black glutinous rice tapai has the potential to lower total and LDL cholesterol levels and increase HDL through a combination of antioxidant effects, cholesterol binding by fiber, and increased fat excretion. In addition, the potential of black glutinous rice tapai as a nutraceutical is also relevant in supporting the preservation of local-based culture and food independence.

Durian is a tropical fruit belonging to the climacteric group, meaning it experiences a surge in respiration after harvest and quickly deteriorates. Due to its perishable nature, processing is necessary to extend its shelf life and maintain its nutritional value and flavor. One traditional method of processing that has long been known in Indonesia, particularly in Kalimantan and Sumatra, is the fermentation of durian flesh into tempoyak. Tempoyak is a natural fermentation product made from ripe durian flesh that has undergone a further ripening process and has a distinctive sour taste and strong aroma. The tempoyak fermentation process involves the activity of microorganisms, particularly lactic acid bacteria (LAB) such as Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus curvatus, which play a crucial role in producing flavor, a semi-solid texture, and functional health benefits. Human food needs depend not only on the quantity of food but also on the quality of its nutritional content, such as carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. In this context, fermented foods such as tempoyak provide added value in the form of probiotics that have the potential to improve digestive health. Lactic acid bacteria, which dominate the natural fermentation process, play a crucial role in the formation of flavor compounds and beneficial biological activities. This study aimed to isolate and identify the types of LAB present in traditional tempoyak from Jambi. Isolation was conducted to obtain pure strains of bacteria with potential probiotics, while identification aimed to determine the dominant bacterial species in the tempoyak fermentation process. The results of this study are expected to contribute to the development of functional food products based on local fermentation.

Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) is a processed coconut product with high economic and health value. VCO production is known to be relatively easy, inexpensive, and capable of producing high-quality oil rich in benefits, including as a traditional medicine and natural ingredient for beauty and health. This community service activity aims to provide students of the Biology Education Study Program at Buton Muslim University with an understanding and practical skills regarding the VCO production process as a form of utilization of local natural resources, especially coconuts. The methods used in this activity include lectures or delivery of theoretical material, interactive discussions on the content and benefits of VCO, and direct practice in making virgin coconut oil using the settling method. This method was chosen because it does not require complicated equipment, does not use excessive heating, and is able to maintain the natural quality of the resulting oil. During the implementation, students are invited to observe and follow the entire process, from selecting good coconut raw materials, the grating process, squeezing coconut milk, natural fermentation through settling, to the process of separating oil from sediment and filtering. The results of this activity demonstrated that students not only understood the concept and theory of VCO production but also produced 1,500 ml of virgin coconut oil packaged in five 300 ml bottles. The VCO was then sold to the public for approximately Rp 30,000 per bottle. Through this activity, students not only gained contextual learning experiences but also developed insights into sustainable, locally-based entrepreneurship.

Cell-based therapy is an innovative approach currently experiencing rapid development in the biomedical field, particularly in the areas of immunotherapy and gene therapy. This approach utilizes living cells, such as genetically modified T cells, to recognize and destroy abnormal cells such as cancer cells or cells with genetic mutations. The development of gene engineering technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9, has enabled scientists to precisely edit damaged genes, thereby repairing or restoring normal cell function. This study aims to examine recent advances in cell-based therapy, focusing on cell modification techniques, the efficiency of the immune system in targeting cancer cells, and the integration of gene therapy technology and immune cells. Furthermore, this study also identifies several challenges that remain, including the risk of side effects due to undesirable immune reactions, the genetic stability of the modified cells, and the long-term sustainability or viability of transplanted cells. While these challenges remain serious concerns, several clinical studies have shown that cell-based therapy has significant potential in the treatment of difficult-to-treat diseases, such as advanced cancer and rare genetic disorders. The results of this study demonstrate that cell-based therapy not only offers a new approach to treatment but also opens the door to more personalized and precise therapies. However, for broader implementation in clinical practice, further, in-depth research is needed regarding safety, long-term efficacy, and strict regulation. This research is expected to make a significant contribution to the development of more effective and safe future therapies.

This study aims to identify the process of making and cultivating media using tempoyak samples as a source of fermentation microorganisms. Tempoyak is a traditional fermented product made from durian (Durio zibethinus) that has long been consumed in various regions in Indonesia. This product is rich in microorganisms such as Lactobacillus spp., Leuconostoc spp., and Saccharomyces spp., which play an important role in the fermentation process, forming a distinctive flavor, and have the potential as probiotic agents. The research stages include the preparation of growth media in the form of Nutrient Agar (NA) for general microorganisms and de Man Rogosa Sharpe Agar (MRSA) for lactic acid bacteria. Tempoyak samples were inoculated aseptically into the media to avoid cross-contamination. Next, the media were incubated at a temperature of 30–37°C with an acidic pH, which is the optimum condition for the growth of lactic acid bacteria. Observations were made to assess the growth of microbial colonies on each media. The identification results showed the dominance of lactic acid microorganisms that were able to grow and develop well under the natural fermentation conditions of tempoyak. The resulting colonies were then cultured to increase the number of microorganisms, thus enabling them to be used as potential isolates in functional food fermentation. These findings confirm that tempoyak has value beyond traditional food, namely as a source of microbial biodiversity applicable to bioprocess technology and the development of probiotic food products. Utilizing local microorganisms from tempoyak can reduce dependence on imported cultures, encourage biotechnology innovation based on local biological resources, and support environmental sustainability. Integrating local wisdom with scientific research like this contributes to the preservation of culinary heritage while opening up economic opportunities through the development of value-added food products.

Kue buayo berendam is a traditional food from Jambi that is unique in terms of ingredients, taste, and processing method. This food is made from glutinous rice flour and coconut milk, which gives it a chewy texture and a savory and sweet taste. With the increasing interest in functional foods that are not only delicious but also beneficial for health, kue buayo berendam has the potential for further study, especially in terms of its microbial content. One interesting aspect to study is the presence of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), especially from the genus Lactobacillus, which is known to have probiotic benefits. This study aims to identify the presence of Lactobacillus spp. in kue buayo berendam to determine the probiotic potential of this traditional food. The methodology used in the study included bacterial isolation from cake samples, observation of colony morphology, Gram staining to determine the type of bacterial cell wall, and a series of biochemical tests to identify the characteristics of the bacteria found. From the results of isolation and identification, it was found that most of the bacteria successfully cultured were Lactobacillus spp., which are Gram-positive and rod-shaped bacteria. The presence of Lactobacillus spp. The results of the research on kue buayo berendam (soaked crocodile cake) indicate that this food not only has cultural and flavor value but also has the potential to be a source of natural probiotics. Probiotics are known to play a role in maintaining digestive health, boosting the immune system, and balancing the gut microbiota. Therefore, kue buayo berendam (soaked crocodile cake) can be further developed as a traditional functional food that supports public health. These findings open up opportunities to enhance the nutritional and health value of local fermented foods, while preserving regional culinary heritage in more innovative and value-added forms.  

Bananas are a tropical fruit that is popular because of its sweet taste and high nutrient content. However, bananas have a major drawback, which is a short shelf life. After reaching perfect ripeness, the banana will undergo a change in mushy texture, the skin will appear black spots, and there will be a growth of yeast that causes the appearance of the banana to be damaged and unfit for consumption. However, ripe bananas that look visually bad still contain high glucose, which can be used in fermentation or advanced processing. One of the solutions to avoid losses due to ripe banana spoilage is to process it into banana sale. Banana sale is a processed product produced from ripe bananas that go through a drying process to reduce the moisture content to a safe level, so that it can extend its shelf life. This drying process can be done by two methods, namely drying in the sun and smoking. The purpose of both methods is to reduce the water content of bananas, so that they are not easily damaged by microorganisms. Using this technique, bananas that are prone to spoilage can be transformed into more durable products, have a distinctive taste, and have a high selling value. The quality of banana sales is influenced by various factors, such as its color, taste, aroma, texture, and shelf life. By processing bananas for sale, their economic value can increase significantly. Farmers can not only reduce losses due to bananas that do not sell well in the fresh market, but also earn additional income from value-added processed products. Banana sale products have great potential to be developed as one of the processed food products that have economic value and are beneficial to the community (Masuku, M. A., 2023; Lestari, S., et al., 2024).

Tempoyak is a traditional fermented product made from durian and widely consumed in Sumatra. Tempoyak fermentation involves lactic acid bacteria (LAB), which are known to have potential as probiotics and as producers of antioxidant compounds. The tempoyak fermentation process plays an important role in increasing nutritional value and health benefits, primarily due to its ability to produce bioactive compounds such as lactic acid and antioxidants that are beneficial for the human body. This study aims to isolate lactic acid bacteria from local fermented tempoyak from Sumatra and evaluate their potential antioxidant activity. Isolation was carried out using the spread method on MRS agar media, which is specifically designed to support the growth of lactic acid bacteria. Next, the obtained isolates were analyzed based on colony morphology, Gram staining, and catalase test for initial identification of the types of bacteria present in tempoyak. After isolation, selected isolates were tested for antioxidant activity using the DPPH test, which is one method to measure the ability of a compound to neutralize free radicals. Vitamin C was used as a positive control in this test. The results showed that several LAB isolates from tempoyak had varying antioxidant activity, with some isolates showing significant potential. The detected antioxidant activity indicates that LAB isolates from tempoyak have the potential to be applied as probiotics with health benefits and as functional food ingredients that can help prevent cell damage caused by free radicals. This study provides evidence that tempoyak, besides being a traditional food, also has the potential to be further developed in the functional food and probiotic industries. These findings add insight into the potential of traditional fermented products, such as tempoyak, which provide not only culinary benefits but also health benefits.

The betel nut (Areca catechu) is a tropical plant that thrives in Southeast Asia, including Indonesia. This plant has long been known in traditional medicine and local culture for its content of various beneficial active compounds. One form of its utilization that has rarely been scientifically studied is fresh betel nut juice. Therefore, this study aims to conduct a preliminary assessment of the characteristics of fresh betel nut juice, particularly from a physical, chemical, and microbiological perspective. The juice production process is carried out simply by squeezing fresh betel nuts without the addition of chemicals or heating. Based on initial observations, the betel nut juice exhibits a distinctive reddish-brown color and a sharp, pungent aroma. This color and aroma likely originate from the phenolic and alkaloid compounds naturally present in the betel nut. pH measurements indicate that the juice has a fairly high acidity level, which can affect the stability of microorganisms within it. Qualitative tests of the chemical composition of the betel nut juice indicate the presence of bioactive compounds, particularly tannins and alkaloids. Tannins are known to have antimicrobial activity, while alkaloids act as physiologically active compounds that can affect the nervous system. However, the presence of these compounds does not completely inhibit the growth of microorganisms. Through simple isolation of microorganisms from the fresh juice, bacteria from the genus Lactobacillus spp., which are typically associated with natural fermentation processes, were found. The presence of these bacteria indicates that fresh areca nut juice can be a potential growth medium for certain microorganisms, particularly lactic acid bacteria. This finding opens up opportunities for further research into the use of areca nut juice as a natural fermentation agent that may have functional and probiotic value.

Bekasam is a traditional fermented fish-based food popular in various regions in Indonesia, including Batanghari, Jambi. This product is produced through a spontaneous fermentation process that utilizes the activity of microorganisms, particularly lactic acid bacteria (LAB), which play an important role in the formation of distinctive flavors, food safety, and potential health benefits. One type of fish used is lambak fish (Labiobarbus ocellatus), which is commonly found in local waters. Given the high prevalence of cardiovascular disease associated with cholesterol levels, exploring the probiotic potential of local fermented foods presents a strategic opportunity to support public health. This study aims to isolate and identify LAB from bekasam lambak fish from Mersam, Batanghari, and evaluate its initial potential as a candidate for cholesterol-lowering probiotics. The research method was carried out in the laboratory through a series of dilutions (10⁻¹–10⁻⁶) of bekasam samples, followed by cultivation on Nutrient Agar (NA) media using the pour and streak method. Incubation was carried out at 37°C for 24–48 hours. The growing colonies were then observed morphologically and tested using Gram staining. Observations revealed spherical, milky-white colonies with Gram-positive rod-shaped characteristics, indicating they likely belonged to the Lactobacillus genus. This genus is known to lower cholesterol through bile acid binding and free cholesterol assimilation mechanisms in the digestive tract. These findings reinforce the notion that bekasam lambak fish contains local LAB isolates that have the potential to be developed as a natural probiotic raw material. This potential can be utilized in the development of functional fermented food products or nutraceuticals that not only maintain the traditional value of bekasam but also provide preventative health benefits, particularly in controlling cholesterol levels.

Tempe is a fermented soybean product widely known in Indonesia and various countries, with Rhizopus oligosporus fungus as the main microorganism involved in the fermentation process. This study aims to observe the growth of Rhizopus oligosporus fungus isolated from tempeh using the dilution method and grown on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) media. The research process began with taking tempeh samples which were then subjected to serial dilutions. Next, the diluted samples were inoculated into PDA media and incubated at 37°C to facilitate fungal growth. Observations were made periodically to monitor the development of fungal colonies and the morphology formed. In the observation, it was found that Rhizopus oligosporus fungal colonies growing on PDA media were grayish-white with a distinctive filamentous hyphal structure. This indicates that PDA media strongly supports the growth of the fungus. In addition, the dilution method used in this study proved effective in separating fungal colonies, thus facilitating the morphological identification of each colony. The serial dilution method is very important in isolating microorganisms present in tempeh samples. By separating the fungal colonies from each other, researchers can observe the development of each colony more clearly and accurately. The results of this study indicate that PDA media is very suitable for supporting the growth of Rhizopus oligosporus and that the serial dilution method is an effective way to isolate this fungus from tempeh. In conclusion, this study proves that serial dilution followed by inoculation on PDA media is an effective method in observing and isolating Rhizopus oligosporus from tempeh. PDA media is able to support optimal fungal growth and allows for clear observation of the colonies and their morphology.

The community service program in Kemiri Village aims to empower farmers through the use of local potential, especially moringa leaves (Moringa oleifera), as raw materials for liquid organic fertilizer (POC). This activity was carried out with a participatory and educational approach that directly involved farmer groups in technical training on making POC through simple fermentation methods using natural ingredients such as moringa leaves, rice washing water, organic waste, and local decomposers. Through this activity, farmers are taught stages ranging from the collection of ingredients, the process of shredding moringa leaves, mixing with complementary ingredients, to the correct fermentation techniques to produce high-quality fertilizer. The training is carried out by field demonstration methods, discussions, and hands-on practice, so that farmers not only gain theoretical knowledge, but also practical skills that can be applied independently. The results show a significant increase in farmers' knowledge, skills, and awareness of the importance of liquid organic fertilizer as an environmentally friendly alternative. In addition, the public's enthusiasm is getting higher after seeing real evidence that the use of POC moringa leaves is able to increase plant growth, crop quality, and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers which are increasingly expensive and have the potential to damage the soil. This program not only provides economic benefits through the cost efficiency of agricultural production, but also has a positive impact on environmental conservation. This activity is expected to be a model of community empowerment based on local potential that can be replicated in other regions with similar conditions. The success of the program shows that simple innovations that utilize local resources, if managed well, can support sustainable agriculture and food security for rural communities.