The fermentation conditions for the production of exopolysaccharides(EPS) by Lactobacillus helveticus MB2-1 isolated from Sayram traditional yogurt in Xinjiang were optimized. The effects of culture temperature, lactose concentration, nitrogen source and concentration, and mineral source and concentration on EPS yield were studied through single factor analysis. Response surface analysis(RSM) involving three independent variables at three different levels was carried out to determine the optimal process con...