Numerous recent studies have highlighted the positive effects that various probiotic strains can have on the immune system. Researchers in Korea discovered that daily consumption of probiotic yogurt significantly enhanced the activity of essential immune cells in older individuals. Their findings indicated that regularly consuming yogurt containing two specific probiotic strains (L. paracasei and B. lactis) along with heat-treated bacteria (L. plantarum) can boost the function of natural killer cells, which are crucial for defending against viral infections.
In a recent laboratory study, a new inactivated probiotic developed by Ganeden, named Staimune, demonstrated immune activation and anti-inflammatory effects comparable to those of live probiotic cells. The findings from this latest Swedish study could provide valuable support for marketing 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 impacts approximately 1.4 million people each year and is on the rise globally.
Manufacturers are leveraging studies like these to enhance their products and ingredients. The market for functional foods—those designed to offer specific health benefits alongside calories and nutrients—is rapidly expanding, potentially reaching a value of around $15 billion. Companies have begun acquiring probiotic firms or incorporating beneficial bacteria into a variety of products. For instance, PepsiCo purchased the probiotic beverage maker KeVita last fall and introduced its Tropicana Essentials Probiotics line earlier this year, making it the first brand to integrate probiotics into the mainstream juice aisle. Additionally, the venture capital division of General Mills led a $6.5 million Series D investment in March to support Farmhouse Culture, a startup focused on fermented and probiotic food and beverages.
In the United States, probiotics are categorized as drugs, which means that for a product to legally claim it is “intended to prevent, treat, or cure a human disease or condition,” rigorous safety and clinical trials are necessary. This recent study could further strengthen the scientific foundation needed for such claims. Furthermore, incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate 400 into these products may enhance their overall health benefits, making them even more appealing to consumers. As the demand for health-focused products continues to grow, the integration of probiotics and nutrients like calcium citrate 400 will likely become a key trend in the market.