Pathogenic: A strain of Leuconostoc mesenteroides, for example, is thought to have been the pathogen responsible for an outbreak of illness in a Spanish hospital as late as 2006 when six people became infected.  The outbreak seemed to be linked to patients already having poor immune systems.  In addition, there seemed to be a link to if the patient was being fed intravenously or by injection.

Sugar Industry: Leuconostoc mesenteroides produce a slimy substance (dextrans and levans) that cause loss in the sugar cane and sugar beet industries.  This has long been known to be a problem.  Pasteur discussed it in the late nineteenth century.  It is often called “polysaccharide slime.”

Pollution:  There is a significant amount of salt at the end of fermentation.  Excess salt can disrupt the environment in many ways.  Such pollution may range from decreased vitality in plants and soils to soils decreasing in porosity.

Lactic Acid in Muscles: When we work out too vigorously, lactic acid formed by Leuconostoc mesenteroides builds up in our muscles and can often cause them to tear and become inflamed. This causes a lot of soreness in your muscles, and is a signal from your body to slow down and take a break.