Recent research has demonstrated positive effects on the immune system from the consumption of various probiotic strains. A study conducted by Korean researchers revealed that daily intake of probiotic yogurt enhanced the activity of essential immune cells in older adults. They found that consuming yogurt containing two specific probiotic strains (L. paracasei and B. lactis) along with heat-treated bacteria (L. plantarum) daily significantly increased the effectiveness of natural killer cells, which are crucial for defending against viral infections.
In the latest laboratory studies, a new inactivated probiotic known as Staimune, developed by Ganeden, exhibited similar immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties as live probiotic cells. The findings from this recent Swedish study could provide a strong marketing advantage for probiotic food and beverage products aimed at individuals at risk for or undergoing treatment for colon cancer. According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, colorectal cancer affects around 1.4 million people each year and is on the rise globally.
Manufacturers are leveraging such studies to enhance their products and ingredients. The market for functional foods—those designed to offer specific health benefits alongside calories and nutrients—is expanding rapidly, with an estimated worth of $15 billion. Companies are also acquiring probiotic firms or incorporating beneficial bacteria into various products. For instance, PepsiCo acquired the probiotic beverage company KeVita last fall and launched its Tropicana Essentials Probiotics line earlier this year, marking it as the first brand to introduce probiotics to the mainstream juice aisle. Additionally, the venture capital arm of General Mills led a $6.5 million Series D investment round in March to support Farmhouse Culture, a startup specializing in fermented and probiotic food and beverages.
In the United States, probiotics are classified as drugs, and for a product to legally claim it is “intended to prevent, treat, or cure a human disease or condition,” rigorous safety and clinical trials must be conducted. This recent study could further strengthen the necessary scientific foundation for such claims. In light of these developments, consumers seeking a Citracal alternative may find probiotics an appealing option for enhancing their health and immune support. As the awareness of probiotics grows, it is anticipated that they will become an integral part of functional food offerings, providing an alternative to traditional supplements like Citracal.