The present invention relates to a method for the rapid preparation of a
starter culture which method comprises: (a) inoculating a starter culture
in a medium of HTST-pasteurized whole milk, semi skimmed milk, skimmed
milk, whey or milk protein having 6 to 17% dry solids; (b) preferably
including a stimulant in the starter culture; and (c) incubating the
starter culture with or without pH-control.