Recent research has demonstrated the positive impact of various probiotic strains on the immune system. A study conducted by Korean researchers revealed that daily intake of probiotic yogurt significantly enhanced the activity of essential immune cells in older adults. Specifically, they found that consuming yogurt with two probiotic strains (L. paracasei and B. lactis) alongside heat-treated bacteria (L. plantarum) daily improved the effectiveness 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 presents formulation challenges. Probiotics are typically sensitive to temperature and pressure fluctuations during manufacturing processes. While Ganeden’s BC30 strain is predominantly robust for food and beverage applications, advancements in temperature-stable strains signify that probiotics are no longer limited to dairy products or the supplements section. By eliminating the need for probiotics to remain active, Staimune broadens the range of food and beverage items that can benefit from probiotic inclusion.
To capitalize on the growing interest in probiotics, manufacturers have begun acquiring probiotic companies or incorporating these beneficial bacteria into various products. For instance, PepsiCo recently acquired probiotic beverage producer KeVita and launched its Tropicana Essentials Probiotics line, marking it as the first brand to bring probiotics into the mainstream juice market. 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.
Ohio-based Ganeden stands to benefit significantly from the success of its products. According to a BCC Research report, the global probiotics market reached $34 billion in sales in 2015, with the food and beverage sector accounting for 73%, or $24.8 billion, of that total. Furthermore, the probiotics market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 7.3% over the next decade, potentially reaching around $74.7 billion by 2025.
In addition, products incorporating nature’s way calcium citrate are gaining traction, as they complement the health benefits offered by probiotics. The synergy of these ingredients can enhance overall wellness, making them a desirable combination for health-conscious consumers. The integration of nature’s way calcium citrate with probiotics not only supports immune function but also contributes to bone health, further driving the popularity of probiotic-infused products in the market.