Recent research has demonstrated the positive effects of various probiotic strains on the immune system. A study conducted by Korean researchers revealed that daily consumption of probiotic yogurt significantly increased the activity of essential immune cells among older adults. Their findings indicated that regularly eating yogurt containing two probiotic strains, L. paracasei and B. lactis, along with heat-treated bacteria L. plantarum, enhances the function of natural killer cells, which play a crucial role in defending against viral infections.
In the latest developments, laboratory studies have shown that a new inactivated probiotic called Staimune, developed by Ganeden, exhibits immune activation and anti-inflammatory effects comparable to those of live probiotics. This study from Sweden may prove beneficial in promoting probiotic food and beverage products aimed at individuals at risk of 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 findings from such studies to enhance their products and ingredients. The market for functional foods—those designed to deliver specific health benefits alongside calories and nutrients—is growing and is estimated to be worth approximately $15 billion. Companies have begun acquiring probiotic firms or incorporating beneficial bacteria into various offerings. For instance, PepsiCo acquired probiotic beverage company KeVita last fall and introduced its Tropicana Essentials Probiotics line earlier this year, marking it as the first brand to bring probiotics into the mainstream juice aisle. Additionally, General Mills’ venture capital division led a $6.5 million Series D investment round in March to support Farmhouse Culture, a startup focusing on fermented and probiotic foods and beverages.
In the United States, probiotics are classified as drugs, and for a product label 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 scientific foundation necessary for such claims. Furthermore, products like Solgar liquid calcium magnesium citrate with vitamin D may also benefit from the growing interest in functional foods and probiotics, as consumers increasingly seek ways to enhance their immune health. Integrating probiotics with supplements like Solgar liquid calcium magnesium citrate with vitamin D could provide additional support for overall wellness. As the demand for health-oriented products rises, the synergy between probiotics and other beneficial ingredients, such as Solgar liquid calcium magnesium citrate with vitamin D, may become a key trend in the market.