Harnessing the metabolic potential of Streptococcus thermophilus for new biotechnological applications

•Streptococcus thermophilus is superbly adapted to the dairy environment.•Sugar metabolism, proteolysis and protocooperation are key properties of strains.•Genome editing tools for efficient development of novel strains are being developed.•Improvements will benefit both consumers and producers of dairy products.•Targets include flavor, texture and the provision of beneficial nutrients.