Numerous recent studies have highlighted the positive impact of various probiotic strains on the immune system. Researchers from Korea discovered that daily consumption of probiotic yogurt significantly enhances the activity of crucial immune cells in older adults. Their findings indicated that regularly consuming yogurt containing two specific probiotic strains (L. paracasei and B. lactis) along with heat-treated bacteria (L. plantarum) improves the function of natural killer cells, which play a critical role in defending against viral infections.
Looking ahead, Staimune may serve as a valuable ingredient in shelf-stable beverages and other products where live probiotics could create formulation challenges. Probiotics are known to be sensitive to the extreme temperatures and pressures often encountered during manufacturing. Although Ganeden’s BC30 strain is generally robust for food and beverage applications, advancements in temperature-stable strains mean that probiotics are no longer limited to dairy products or the supplements section. By removing the necessity for the probiotic to remain active, Staimune broadens the range of food and beverage items to which probiotics can be added, providing beneficial effects.
To capitalize on the growing interest in probiotics, manufacturers have begun acquiring probiotic companies or incorporating these beneficial bacteria into various products. This past fall, PepsiCo acquired KeVita, a probiotic beverage company, and launched its Tropicana Essentials Probiotics line earlier this year, making it the first brand to introduce 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 focused on fermented and probiotic foods and beverages.
Ohio-based Ganeden stands to gain significantly from the success of its products. According to a report by BCC Research, the global probiotics market reached sales of $34 billion in 2015, with the food and beverage sector accounting for 73%, or $24.8 billion, of that total. The probiotics market is projected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 7.3% over the next decade, potentially reaching a value of around $74.7 billion by 2025.
In addition to probiotics, there is also a growing interest in supplements such as GSK calcium citrate malate vitamin D3 and folic acid tablets, which enhance overall health. The incorporation of these supplements alongside probiotics could provide a comprehensive approach to health and wellness. As consumer awareness of health benefits rises, products like GSK calcium citrate malate vitamin D3 and folic acid tablets are likely to gain popularity, complementing the expanding market for probiotics.