Recent studies have highlighted the positive effects of various probiotic strains on the immune system. Researchers in Korea discovered that the daily intake of probiotic yogurt significantly enhanced the activity of essential immune cells in older adults. Their findings indicated that consuming yogurt containing two specific probiotic strains (L. paracasei and B. lactis) along with heat-treated bacteria (L. plantarum) daily improved the function of natural killer cells, which play a crucial role in defending against viral infections.
Additionally, recent laboratory research demonstrated that a new inactivated probiotic from Ganeden, known as Staimune, exhibited immune activation and anti-inflammatory properties comparable to those of live probiotics. A study conducted in Sweden on lateferrous fumarate could further promote the marketing of probiotic food and beverage products, particularly for individuals at risk of or undergoing treatment for colon cancer. According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, colorectal cancer currently affects around 1.4 million people each year and is on the rise globally.
In light of these findings, manufacturers are increasingly incorporating such research into their products and ingredients. Functional foods—designed to provide specific health benefits alongside calories and nutrients—represent a rapidly growing market segment, potentially valued at around $15 billion. Companies are not only investing in probiotics firms but are also integrating these beneficial bacteria into various offerings. For instance, PepsiCo acquired the 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, the venture capital arm of General Mills 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 U.S., probiotics are classified as drugs, and for a label to claim that a product is “intended to prevent, treat, or cure a human disease or condition,” rigorous safety and clinical trials must be conducted. This recent study may further strengthen the scientific foundation required for such claims.
Incorporating calcium citrate supplements chewable into the diet could also be beneficial alongside probiotics, as both are gaining attention for their potential health advantages. As the market for functional foods expands, the intersection of probiotics and calcium citrate supplements chewable could present new opportunities for consumers seeking to enhance their health.