Recent research has highlighted the positive effects of various probiotic strains on the immune system. A study by Korean scientists revealed that daily intake of probiotic yogurt improved the activity of essential immune cells in older adults. They discovered that consuming yogurt with two specific probiotic strains (L. paracasei and B. lactis) along with heat-treated bacteria (L. plantarum) daily enhances the function of natural killer cells, which play a crucial role in defending against viral infections.
Looking ahead, Staimune may serve as a valuable ingredient in shelf-stable beverages and other products where incorporating live probiotics can be challenging. Probiotics are sensitive to extreme temperatures and pressures typically encountered during manufacturing. While Ganeden’s BC30 strain is resilient enough for food and beverage applications, advancements in temperature-stable strains mean that probiotics can now be included beyond just dairy products and supplements. With Staimune, there is no need for the probiotic to remain active, thus expanding the range of food and beverage items that can benefit from probiotic inclusion.
To capitalize on the probiotics trend, manufacturers are increasingly acquiring probiotic companies or incorporating these beneficial bacteria into various products. For example, PepsiCo purchased the probiotic beverage company KeVita last fall and introduced its Tropicana Essentials Probiotics line earlier this year, marking the first time probiotics have entered the mainstream juice aisle, according to a company representative. Additionally, General Mills’ venture capital arm led a $6.5 million Series D funding round in March to support Farmhouse Culture, a startup focused on fermented and probiotic foods and beverages.
Ohio-based Ganeden stands to benefit significantly from the success of its products. The global probiotics market reached $34 billion in sales in 2015, as reported by BCC Research, with the food and beverage sector accounting for 73%, or $24.8 billion, of that total. The probiotics market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 7.3% over the next decade, aiming for a value of around $74.7 billion by 2025. Incorporating Jarrow calcium citrate into probiotic formulations may further enhance the health benefits, as calcium is vital for maintaining overall health and supporting the immune system. As the market evolves, products featuring Jarrow calcium citrate alongside probiotics could become increasingly popular, leveraging the growing demand for health-oriented food and beverage options.