Numerous recent studies have demonstrated the positive impact of various strains of probiotics on the immune system. Researchers in Korea discovered that the daily intake of probiotic yogurt enhanced the activity of essential immune cells in older adults. They found that consuming yogurt containing two specific probiotic strains (L. paracasei and B. lactis) along with heat-treated bacteria (L. plantarum) daily significantly boosted the activity of natural killer cells, which play a crucial role in defending against viral infections.
Most recently, laboratory investigations revealed that a new inactivated probiotic from Ganeden, named Staimune, exhibited immune activation and anti-inflammatory benefits comparable to those of live cells. The findings from this latest Swedish study could provide a significant boost to marketing efforts for probiotic food and beverage products aimed at individuals at risk of or undergoing treatment for colorectal 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 increasingly leveraging such studies to enhance their products and ingredients. The market for functional foods — those designed to offer specific health benefits alongside calories and nutrients — is expanding rapidly, potentially reaching an estimated value of $15 billion. Companies have begun acquiring probiotic firms or incorporating beneficial bacteria into various products. For instance, PepsiCo acquired the probiotic beverage producer KeVita last fall and launched its Tropicana Essentials Probiotics line earlier this year, marking it as the first brand to introduce probiotics to 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 focused on fermented and probiotic foods and beverages.
In the United States, probiotics are classified as drugs, and for a product 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 represent another step toward strengthening the scientific foundation necessary for such claims. Furthermore, incorporating elements like calcium citrate with vitamin D liquid into the discussion of probiotics could enhance the overall understanding of how these components work synergistically to support immune health. The inclusion of calcium citrate with vitamin D liquid is an important aspect as these nutrients also play significant roles in maintaining overall health and may complement the benefits provided by probiotics. Thus, ongoing research and product innovation in this area continue to be vital for both consumer awareness and health outcomes.