Numerous recent studies have demonstrated the positive impact of various probiotic strains on the immune system. Research conducted by Korean scientists revealed that the daily intake of probiotic yogurt significantly enhanced the activity of essential immune cells in older adults. They found that regular consumption of yogurt containing two specific probiotic strains (L. paracasei and B. lactis) along with heat-treated bacteria (L. plantarum) bolstered 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 known to be sensitive to extreme temperatures and pressures typically encountered during manufacturing. While Ganeden’s BC30 strain demonstrates considerable resilience for food and beverage applications, innovations in temperature-stable strains mean that probiotics are no longer limited to dairy products or dietary supplements. By eliminating the need for probiotics to remain active, Staimune expands the possibilities for adding probiotics to a wider array of food and beverage items for their health benefits.
To capitalize on the growing popularity of probiotics, manufacturers have begun acquiring probiotic companies or incorporating beneficial bacteria into various products. For instance, PepsiCo purchased the probiotic beverage company KeVita last fall and introduced its Tropicana Essentials Probiotics line earlier this year, marking a significant step in bringing probiotics into the mainstream juice market. Additionally, the venture capital arm of General Mills led a $6.5 million Series D funding round in March to support Farmhouse Culture, a startup specializing in fermented and probiotic foods and beverages.
Ohio-based Ganeden stands to benefit greatly from the success of its products. According to a report by BCC Research, the global probiotics market reached $34 billion in sales in 2015, with the food and beverage sector accounting for 73% of that total, or $24.8 billion. The global probiotics market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 7.3% over the next decade, potentially reaching a value of around $74.7 billion by 2025.
This expansion in the probiotics sector raises questions about nutritional comparisons, such as calcium citrate vs malate. Both forms of calcium offer unique benefits, making it essential for consumers to understand their options. As the market grows, discussions around calcium citrate vs malate will become increasingly relevant, particularly for those looking to enhance their overall health alongside probiotic consumption. Thus, as the popularity of probiotics continues to rise, the exploration of complementary nutrients like calcium citrate vs malate will likely gain traction within the industry.