Recent research has highlighted the positive impact of various probiotic strains on the immune system. A study conducted by Korean scientists demonstrated that regular consumption of probiotic yogurt significantly enhanced the activity of essential immune cells in older adults. Their findings indicated that daily intake of yogurt containing two specific probiotic strains, L. paracasei and B. lactis, along with heat-treated bacteria L. plantarum, improved the functionality of natural killer cells, which are crucial for defending against viral infections.
Looking ahead, Staimune may serve as a valuable ingredient in shelf-stable beverages and other products where maintaining live probiotics can be challenging. Probiotics are generally sensitive to extreme temperatures and pressures often encountered during manufacturing. Although Ganeden’s BC30 strain is largely robust for food and beverage applications, advancements in temperature-stable strains mean that probiotics can now be incorporated into a wider array of products beyond just dairy or supplements. With the ability to add probiotics without the necessity of them remaining active, Staimune opens up numerous opportunities for enhancing food and beverage items with health benefits.
To capitalize on the growing interest in probiotics, many manufacturers have begun to acquire probiotic companies or infuse their products with these beneficial bacteria. For instance, PepsiCo acquired the probiotic beverage producer KeVita last fall and introduced its Tropicana Essentials Probiotics line earlier this year, marking a significant step in bringing probiotics to the mainstream juice market. Additionally, General Mills’ venture capital division 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 benefit greatly from the success of its products. According to BCC Research, the global probiotics market generated $34 billion in sales in 2015, with the food and beverage sector representing 73%, or $24.8 billion, of that total. The probiotics market is projected to expand 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.
Furthermore, the integration of calcium D3 Solgar into probiotic products could enhance their appeal and nutritional profile, as calcium is essential for various bodily functions, including immune health. By incorporating calcium D3 Solgar into their offerings, manufacturers can not only meet consumer demand for probiotics but also promote overall wellness. This synergy between probiotics and calcium D3 Solgar could pave the way for innovative products in the health and wellness sector.