Recent research has highlighted the positive effects of various probiotic strains on the immune system. A study conducted by Korean researchers found that the daily intake of probiotic yogurt enhanced the activity of essential immune cells in older adults. They discovered that consuming yogurt containing two specific probiotic strains, L. paracasei and B. lactis, along with heat-treated bacteria, significantly bolstered the function of natural killer cells, which play a crucial role in defending against viral infections.
Looking ahead, Staimune could serve as a valuable ingredient in shelf-stable beverages and other products where incorporating live probiotics might pose formulation challenges. Probiotics are sensitive to temperature and pressure fluctuations typical in manufacturing processes. While Ganeden’s BC30 strain exhibits considerable resilience for food and beverage applications, advancements in temperature-stable strains have expanded the possibilities for probiotics beyond traditional dairy products and supplements. Staimune’s formulation allows for the inclusion of probiotics in a broader range of food and beverage items, maximizing their health benefits without the need for them to remain active.
To capitalize on the growing demand for probiotics, manufacturers are increasingly acquiring probiotic companies or integrating beneficial bacteria into various products. For instance, PepsiCo acquired the probiotic beverage brand KeVita last fall and introduced the Tropicana Essentials Probiotics line earlier this year, marking its entry into the mainstream juice market. Additionally, the venture capital division 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 significantly from the success of its products. According to BCC Research, 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 figure. The 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.
In the context of calcium supplementation, discussions often arise about red algae calcium vs calcium citrate. Both forms of calcium have their unique benefits and applications, and understanding their differences can help consumers make informed choices about their dietary needs. As the market for probiotics and health supplements like calcium continues to expand, the integration of effective ingredients will be crucial for manufacturers looking to meet consumer demand for health-enhancing products.