Numerous recent studies have demonstrated the positive effects of various probiotic strains on the immune system. Researchers from Korea discovered that daily intake of probiotic yogurt significantly enhanced the activity of essential immune cells in older adults. Their findings indicated that consuming yogurt enriched with two specific probiotic strains (L. paracasei and B. lactis) along with heat-treated bacteria (L. plantarum) daily boosts natural killer cells, which play a crucial role in defending against viral infections.
In the latest laboratory studies, a new inactivated probiotic called Staimune, developed by Ganeden, exhibited immune activation and anti-inflammatory properties comparable to those of live probiotics. Results from this recent research in Sweden may strengthen marketing efforts for probiotic food and beverage products aimed at individuals at risk or undergoing treatment for colon cancer. According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, colorectal cancer impacts around 1.4 million individuals each year and is on the rise globally.
Manufacturers are leveraging findings from studies like these to enhance their products and ingredients. Functional foods—those designed to provide specific health benefits in addition to calories and nutrients—represent a rapidly growing segment of the market, potentially valued at approximately $15 billion. Companies have begun acquiring probiotic firms or incorporating beneficial bacteria into various products. For instance, PepsiCo purchased the probiotic beverage company KeVita last fall and launched its Tropicana Essentials Probiotics line earlier this year, making it the first brand to introduce probiotics into the mainstream juice aisle. 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.
In the United States, probiotics are classified as drugs, and for a product to legally claim it is “intended to prevent, treat, or cure a human disease or condition,” rigorous safety evaluations and clinical trials must be conducted. This recent study could contribute to strengthening the scientific foundation necessary for such claims. Alongside this, the calcium citrate malate price is becoming a relevant consideration for manufacturers looking to enhance their probiotic offerings. As the market for functional foods grows, the calcium citrate malate price will likely influence product formulation and pricing strategies, which may further drive interest in probiotic products.