Abstract
Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is a persistent organic pollutant (POP) commonly detected in milk and dairy products. These compounds pose a serious threat to the health of consumers due to their considerable bioaccumulation potential, high stability, and toxicity. (2) Methods: The study evaluated the potential of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus probiotic cultures to reduce HCB residues in fermented goat milk beverages during 21-day refrigerated storage. HCB content was determined by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). (3) Results: A strong negative correlation was found between HCB concentration in fermented milk and storage time. After 21 days, a 75-78% reduction in HCB content was observed, with L. plantarum showing greater efficiency in reducing hexachlorobenzene levels than L. rhamnosus. (4) Conclusions: The use of probiotic cultures contributed to a significant reduction in the HCB content of fermented goat milk. Our findings support the hypothesis that the lactic acid bacteria Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus can lower hexachlorobenzene levels in fermented products.