Recent research has highlighted the positive impact of various probiotic strains on the immune system. A study conducted by Korean researchers revealed that the daily intake of probiotic yogurt significantly enhanced the activity of essential immune cells in older adults. They discovered that regular consumption of yogurt containing two probiotic strains (L. paracasei and B. lactis), along with heat-treated bacteria (L. plantarum), improved the function of natural killer cells, which play a crucial role in defending against viral infections.
Future applications of Staimune may include its use as a strengthening ingredient in shelf-stable beverages and other products where the inclusion of live probiotics can be challenging due to their sensitivity to temperature and pressure during manufacturing. While Ganeden’s BC30 strain is generally robust for food and beverage applications, advancements in temperature-stable probiotic strains mean that they are no longer confined to the dairy section or dietary supplements. By eliminating the necessity for probiotics to remain active, Staimune expands the range of food and beverage items that can incorporate probiotics for their health benefits.
To capitalize on the growing interest in probiotics, manufacturers have begun acquiring probiotic companies or integrating beneficial bacteria into various products. For instance, PepsiCo purchased probiotic beverage maker KeVita last fall and launched its Tropicana Essentials Probiotics line earlier this year, marking the brand as the first to introduce probiotics into the mainstream juice aisle. Additionally, the venture capital arm of General Mills led a $6.5 million Series D investment in March to support Farmhouse Culture, a startup focused on fermented and probiotic foods and beverages.
Ohio-based Ganeden stands to benefit significantly from the success of its products. According to a report by BCC Research, the global probiotics market reached $34 billion in sales in 2015, with the food and beverage sector accounting for 73% ($24.8 billion) of that total. 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.
Incorporating additional beneficial ingredients such as calcium ascorbate, calcium citrate, and vitamin D3 could further enhance the health properties of these probiotic products. These nutrients, known for their immune-boosting capabilities, can be strategically included alongside probiotics to create more effective health-promoting formulations. As the market continues to expand, the synergy between probiotics and these vitamins and minerals will likely play a vital role in the development of innovative health-focused products.