International Probiotics Association

The Global Voice of Probiotics

Articles

Reducing Staphylococcus aureus with Probiotics: A Promising Alternative

by

Staphylococcus aureus (S.aureus), a bacterium present on human skin and mucous membranes, is typically harmless but can cause a multitude of serious and often fatal infections. Complicating treatment is pervasive antibiotic resistance, such as in methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) which has led to rising death tolls globally. A search for alternative therapies has involved the recognition of […]

Microbial Allies: Gut Health and Probiotics – Support for Age-Defying Skin

by

By: Laura Huuskonen, PhD and Arthur C. Ouwehand, PhD – Health R&D, International Flavors & Fragrances Human skin has three main layers: the epidermis, the dermis, and the subcutaneous fat (hypodermis) (Figure 1). The epidermis is the outermost layer that protects the body from water loss, pathogens, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The dermis is the middle […]

A Role for Probiotics in Gestational Diabetes?

by

When diabetes is diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy, it is called gestational diabetes (GDM). Because GDM can lead to maternal and offspring complications, control of blood sugar is imperative. Fortunately, in most cases, healthy lifestyle choices and medication can help mitigate adverse effects. Recently, a new intervention is being explored. Because research cites […]

IPA ProbioCast: Women of Wisdom with Anita Johansen 

by

The International Probiotics Association (IPA), as a proud partner of Women In Nutraceuticals (WIN) has collaborated with the profiling of IPA’s “Women of Wisdom” leadership podcasts. Join us for an insightful episode featuring Anita Johansen, IPA Board Member and CEO of Probi, as she shares her career journey and delves into her diverse leadership experiences. […]

Closing the Gender Gap: Why We Need to Prioritize the Inclusion of Women in Clinical Studies

by

By Stephanie-Anne Girard, PhD | Director, Scientific Affairs at SGS Nutrasource Diversity and inclusion have emerged as pivotal elements shaping the landscape of clinical research. This shift towards inclusivity ensures the relevance, accuracy, and applicability of research outcomes. Sex and gender influence various aspects of human health and disease making the representation of women crucial […]

Shedding Light on HPV: Role of Vaginal Microbiota in Disease Progression

by

In 2022, more than 660,000 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer and nearly 350,000 died from the disease, worldwide. In most cases, high-risk subtypes of the human papillomavirus (HPV) are the cause of the cancer. Evidence reveals that cervicovaginal microbiota may play a substantial role in the persistence or regression of the virus. This blog will look […]

Gut microbiome, Probiotics and, Premenstrual Disorders

by

By: Mathieu Millette, Ph.D., Mcb. A. Melissa, 28, is the mother of two beautiful children, Zachary and Sara-Jeanne. She is the commercial director of a company marketing natural health products based on plant extracts grown in a fair trade and eco-responsible manner. She works out, takes care of her parents, and has a rich and fulfilling […]

Navigating ADHD: Insights from Gut Microbiome Research

by

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood, affecting an estimated 5% of children and adolescents globally. Persistence into adulthood is common, with prevalence estimated to be about 2.5%. Due to the negative health effects it causes and the significant financial burden on healthcare and society, alternative treatment […]

The DSHEA Summit

by

June 10, 2024 | The DSHEA Summit Uniting Industry Pioneers to Illuminate the Past, Elevate the Present, and Shape the Future of Dietary Supplements NutraIngredients-USA’s DSHEA at 30 Summit , in association with the United Natural Products Alliance (UNPA) , is a landmark event, bringing together the architects of the law, and key industry stakeholders to discuss the past, […]

Exploring the Gut-Brain Connection: Psychiatric Medications, Obesity, and Microbiome Interventions

by

Over the past five decades, there has been a global surge in the use of psychiatric medications, coinciding with a nearly tripled prevalence of obesity and associated metabolic diseases. Is there a connection? Medications prescribed for severe mental illnesses like depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia often incur significant metabolic side effects, such as heightened appetite, […]

March News

by

BLIS Technologies is excited to share the latest research on BLIS K12™, a probiotic supplement that enhances immune health and reduces symptoms of COVID-19. In this whitepaper, two studies found that BLIS K12™ does the following: 1) Stimulates the production of antibodies specific to the SARS CoV-2 virus, thus helping the immune system against COVID-19. 2) Reduced the symptoms of more severe COVID-19 […]

IPA World Congress + Probiota Americas 2024

by

Connecting the Business & Science of the Microbiome June 10 – 12, 2024 | Salt Lake City Organized by NutraIngredients-USA.com, the IPA World Congress + Probiota Americas 2024 is where the worlds of microbiome science and business converge. Engage in dynamic sessions, partake in our Wellness Program, enjoy insightful Roundtable Lunch discussions, and enjoy our Probiota […]

January News

by

BIO-CAT, Inc., an industry leading probiotic manufacturer, has agreed to partner with global distribution solutions provider Caldic North America. Under this new agreement, Caldic will bring their proprietary probiotic strains and OPTIFEED® branded solutions to the Companion Animal Health and Nutrition market in North America. COMET has released its trend predictions that highlight the strongest opportunities for microbiome […]

All Probiotics are Equal, but Some are More Equal Than Others

by

By MEHREEN ANJUM & ARTHUR C. OUWEHAND – Global Health & Nutrition Sciences – International Flavors & Fragrances Consumers and scientists wish to better understand the gut microbiota, and innovation is driving the research in the field of probiotics towards discovering new and better strains. Utilizing high-throughput methods, encompassing genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, collectively referred […]

IPA ProbioCast: Probiotic & Postbiotic Analytical Methods – A Perspective on Enumeration Techniques 

by

In this enlightening podcast episode, IPA’s Sandra Saville has a conversation with IPA’s Scientific Co-chair Marie-Eve Boyte about current enumeration techniques in the biotic world. They explore the groundbreaking insights presented in the manuscript titled “Probiotic and postbiotic analytical methods: a perspective of available enumeration techniques.” Co-authored by Marie-Eve Boyte, Andrzej Benkowski, Marco Pane and […]

Autism Spectrum Disorder & Gut Microbiota

by

A complex neurodevelopmental condition, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is rising globally, indicating an urgent need to understand its causes. Decades of research have identified genetics and environmental factors as contributors. Whereas the definitive causes of ASD are unclear, genetic anomalies, nutritional deficiencies, toxins, and infections are strongly implicated. More recently, evidence links gut microbial dysbiosis […]

New Weight Loss Drugs & Gut Microbiota

by

A new—and costly—category of weight loss drugs has burst into the market, targeting the nearly 40% of the world’s population who are overweight or obese. Considered by some experts to be a game changer in obesity, GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists are in such high demand that some people with diabetes (the original indication) are […]

HPA (China) News – October 2023

by

At this exhibition, DSM-Firmenich will focus on intestinal health and showcase its intestinal health portfolio, including post-biological agents, human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) ingredients, probiotics and enzymes. In addition, DSM-Firmich will launch a “proprietary strain portfolio” called Humiome PostLB, which includes fermented L.fermentum and L.delbrueckii. It is reported that this ingredient is manufactured using Adare Biome’s […]

Obesity and the Gut Microbiome: Current Insights

by

Obesity has reached epidemic levels, leading to a global crisis characterized by myriad health issues, premature mortality, and significant economic burdens. The historical approach to weight loss has been fraught with challenges. While lifestyle changes, drugs, and surgery are options that can be effective in the short term, many people fail to keep the weight […]

Probiota Global 2024

by

Probiota was once again the sold-out, microbiome event of the year in 2023! Brought to you by NutraIngredients, Probiota returns from 7 to 9 February 2024 in Milan, Italy and is now open for delegate bookings. The key themes running through the event will include Gut-liver axis, Marketing insights, Personalisation, Improving skin health, Innovation with next-gen and Regulatory developments, […]

Supply Side West 2023

by

What an incredible week it was at Supply Side West 2023! The IPA has revealed its new look as we have rebranded to include our new scope. We also hosted our annual General Assembly, to network with our members and discuss our plans for 2024. It was an absolute pleasure spending time with our valued members. […]

Microbiome-Based Strategies for Preventing Hospital-Acquired Infections in Critical Care

by

Nosocomial infections (NI)—meaning hospital-acquired— are common complications and the leading cause of mortality in intensive care unit (ICU) hospitalized patients with serious illness. Severe trauma, complex surgery, antibiotic use, and mechanical ventilation are a few events that make hospitalized patients more susceptible to infections. Moreover, critically ill patients admitted to the ICU demonstrate significant and […]

Microplastics and Nanoplastics: Effects on Gut Microbiota?

by

Three times the size of France, the Great Pacific Garbage Patch —a mass of plastic debris— floats in the ocean. Due to limited recycling (less than 5%) and ubiquity across industry and packaging, plastics — and their degradation products— have contaminated the earth’s waters, land, and atmosphere. Humans are exposed to smaller breakdown products including […]

September 2023

by

The Market and Regulatory Environment for Pet Supplements in Canada An article by Lauren Carde, VP Operations and Regulatory Affairs at Paul Dick & Associates Ltd. The pet supplement market is large and seeing substantial annual growth, largely due to increased pet ownership, enhanced pet owner attitudes towards the health and longevity of their pets […]

Potential of Probiotics to Prevent Dental Caries

by

Strong teeth are even more vital to health now that average lifespans are stretched in old age. With regular check-ups, cleanings, flossing, and fluoride treatments, we try to protect our teeth. But it is not enough. Dental caries, commonly known as cavities, pose a mounting global health concern with increasing prevalence. Much research confirms that […]

The Microbiome & Probiotics in Space Travelers’ Health

by

Space travel subjects astronauts to a harsh environment. Microgravity, cosmic radiation, confinement, and other challenges lead to many health risks. Disorders may include reduced immunity, increased infections of the genitourinary tract, reactivation of viruses, bacterial resistance, cardiovascular issues, cancers, cognitive decline, bone loss, muscle atrophy, and mental health concerns. Dysbiotic changes in the gut, nose, […]

Probiotics May Lessen Adverse Effects of Bowel Prep in Colonoscopy

by

The widespread adoption of colonoscopy screenings has led to rapid decreases in colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality in the last 20 years. Early detection and prevention with colonoscopies are more effective than other tests such as sigmoidoscopy, guaiac-based fecal occult blood testing, and fecal immunochemical tests. Nevertheless, CRC is still the second leading cause of cancer […]

Age-related Macular Degeneration & the Gut Microbiome

by

About 200 million people worldwide are afflicted by age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness. As populations skew older, numbers are predicted to grow. Although treatments do exist for this complex disease, some patients show poor response.  Researchers are now exploring the involvement of the intestinal microbiome in AMD, potentially offering a new […]

Potential of Postbiotics in Iron Deficiency

by

Nearly 25% of people worldwide are impacted by iron deficiency, resulting in anemia and the inability to maintain sufficient tissue oxygenation, among other negative consequences. Studies have demonstrated that the gut microbiota significantly impacts iron absorption and metabolism, and vice versa. Further, probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics have been explored for their potential role in the […]

Potential of Probiotics in Iron Deficiency

by

More than two billion people across the globe — primarily pregnant women and young children in developing countries—are deficient in iron, an essential trace mineral. Deficiency can lead to anemia, resulting in the failure to sustain suitable tissue oxygenation and body homeostasis. According to research, the gut microbiota (GM) influences both the absorption and metabolism […]

IPA Response to Recent Washington Post Article

by

Thank you to our critical response team at the IPA SC for their contribution to the Washington Post article published yesterday.   Attached is the final document [also below in full text] that our critical response team worked on which will be disseminated on our platforms and in the media. Please share this within your companies internally as needed and […]

Targeting Gut Microbes in Type 2 Diabetes Shows Promise 

by

The worldwide diabetic crisis is becoming more severe, affecting over 537 million adults, which is nearly 10% of the adult population globally. Most diabetics were not born with faulty blood sugar control. Nearly 95% have Type 2 diabetes (T2DM), a complex condition that develops gradually and has various underlying causes. In recent years, the gut microbiome […]

Probiotic Short Chain Fatty Acid Production and Colon Cancer

by

The colon microbiota is an important player in the development of colorectal cancer (CRC), which caused 935,000 deaths in 2020 (the second most deadly cancer worldwide).   During carcinogenesis, the colon microbiota composition changes from a normal profile to dysbiosis, interfering with the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which have anti-cancer effects. In addition […]

Microbes for Mental Health

by

By Maile Combs, MS, and David Despain, MS Gut bacteria can influence how you think, feel, or handle stress. Scientists are now exploring how these microbes can affect mood and mental health. In any given year or at some point during their lifetime, nearly one in five U.S. adults and children are affected by mental […]

IPA Updates from our Board of Directors

by

The International Probiotics Association (IPA) and Probiota Congress culminated after three days of great conferences and networking sessions with 470 industry peers: a sold-out event! The IPA closed out our work with the IPA’s Board of Directors (IPA BoD) meeting on Wednesday, February 8, 2023, from 2 to 6 PM. New Scope Expansion: Probiotics + […]

Probiotic-Based Vaccines: Are We There Yet?

by

Vaccines elicit variable immune responses in different people. A multitude of reasons can make a vaccine less effective against disease, a consequence that can be dangerous or even fatal. Correlations between microbiota and immune response to vaccination are recognized as a factor associated with vaccine failures. Unfortunately, evidence supporting the benefit of probiotics to modulate […]

Preterm Birth: A Role for Probiotics?

by

As eager as one may be to greet a newborn, an early arrival is never good. Preterm birth (PTB) — when an infant is born before 37 weeks of gestation — is a serious problem across the globe. With an estimated 15 million cases annually, spontaneous preterm birth (SPTB) is the leading cause of death […]

Probiotics Show Promise in Alzheimer’s Disease

by

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease causing neuropathological changes and a severe decline in cognitive function. The most common cause of dementia, AD has no known cure. Although some medications may delay the loss of cognition and memory, definitive interventions are elusive. Recent research has focused on the role of the human microbiome […]

Bariatric Surgery: A Role for Probiotics?

by

Bariatric surgery improves metabolism and inflammation in severe obesity and is associated with gut microbiota modifications. However, the role of the gut microbiota in inducing these beneficial changes is controversial in part because the surgery may not fully restore microbial balance. Recent research has attempted to disentangle the complex relationship as well as elucidate a […]

A Role for Probiotics in Mastitis?

by

Despite the considerable health benefits of breastfeeding, initiation and duration rates continue to fall short of international guidelines. Acute mastitis is one of the main reasons why women stop breastfeeding. While antibiotics are frequently prescribed for this painful breast condition, their safety during lactation is a concern, as is the problem of antibiotic resistance. A […]

Individual Response to Prebiotics Varies

by

By the current definition, a prebiotic is “a substrate that is selectively utilized by host microorganisms conferring a health benefit.” A fiber-rich diet —containing non-digestible carbohydrates and other substrates such as polyphenols — as well as supplements containing such compounds are thought to provide much of our prebiotic needs. FYI: For a concise overview of […]

Prebiotics in a Nutshell

by

Throughout human history, beneficial microbes have adapted to thrive on specific substances in the food we eat. Yet only in the past few decades have scientists homed in on which substrates —and underlying mechanisms of action—are used to best nourish them. The concept of “prebiotics” has since expanded into a new category with heightened importance […]

Can Probiotics Affect Decision-Making?

by

Following your gut instincts is one way of making decisions. Now emerging research suggests that the gut may be more involved in decision-making than previously thought. Choices may be influenced by microbial mechanisms in the gut. Whether or not those decisions are prudent may actually depend partly on gut microbiota. The proper ecological balance of […]

Traumatic Brain Injury & Gut Microbes

by

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a global public health issue affecting many millions each year. Management requires an understanding of both the primary brain injury and the secondary sequelae that affect peripheral organs, including the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The gut-brain axis is composed of bidirectional pathways between the gut and brain, hence TBI-induced neuroinflammation and […]

Gut Microbiota & Perioperative Neurocognitive Disorders

by

The health benefits of surgical interventions are undeniable; with the development of safer methods to administer and monitor general anesthesia over the past century, they have saved countless lives from cancer, heart disease, and other serious conditions. The patient’s health overall and the complexity of the procedure are factors that may predict how well a […]

Part 2: Microbes & Breast Cancer Treatments

by

Breast cancer treatments developed over the last decades have greatly improved survivorship as well as return to a cancer-free life for many. Even so, 650,000 women globally died from the disease in 2020. As described in the previous blog, dysbiosis emerged as a key player that may influence breast cancer development and prognosis through diverse […]

Part 1: Microbes & Breast Cancer

by

In 2020, 2.3 million women worldwide were diagnosed with breast cancer. The most frequently identified female cancer, breast cancer has links to changes in the gut and mammary microbiota. The microbiota at these sites appear to influence breast cancer risk, response to treatment, and recurrence. Since the early 2000s, the role of the human gut/ […]

Natural Products Expo West Returns Live

by

Natural Products Expo West returns live to Anaheim, California on March 8-12, 2022 after a pandemic pause. Highlights of Expo West 2022 include Climate Day, the annual State of Natural & Organic session, Pitch Slam, Fresh Ideas Organic Marketplace, a JEDI Community Happy Hour, and Evenings on the Plaza with live music. “New Hope is […]

Endometrial Cancer: Role of the Microbiome

by

Sometimes called uterine cancer, endometrial cancer begins in the layer of cells lining the uterus. Due to emerging evidence that the uterus is not a sterile cavity, researchers have begun to investigate the endometrial microbiome and its possible role in endometrial cancer. Endometrial cancer, in brief The endometrium is dynamic tissue, responding to estrogen and […]

Taxonomy – What is the Big Deal?

by

The IPA Scientific Committee wrote a blog about this when Lactobacillus decided it didn’t want to be such a huge genus any longer. Published in 2020 was the research on the how and why this name change was needed. A taxonomic note on the genus Lactobacillus. Just to clarify that the real purpose of naming […]

Probiotics: A Role in Epilepsy?

by

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological diseases worldwide, affecting about 50 million people. Most live in low to middle-income countries where prevention and treatment can be lacking. Head injury, stroke, infections, and congenital abnormalities can all lead to epilepsy. The disease can diminish quality of life and cause premature death. Epilepsy, in brief […]

Our Biology has been Shaped by Bacteria

by

by Ines Martinez,Head of Probiotic R&D team – SACCO Bacteria have inhabited our planet for 3.5 billion years, this was a long time before eukaryotic life emerged in our planet approximately 2.7 billion years ago. In short, we have evolved in a bacterial world, thus every aspect of our biology has been shaped in the […]

Seeking Clarity on Postbiotics

by

Postbiotics are emerging as potent forces for health, just as with probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics. But unlike these related substances, the term postbiotic continues to cause no small amount of confusion. Postbiotics, an evolving definition Researchers working with probiotics observed that at times isolated factors produced by the probiotic activity elicited the desired response. They […]

Can Probiotics Reduce Harms of Phthalates?

by

First introduced in the 1920s, phthalates are commercial chemicals used in a vast array of consumer products: plastic and vinyl, medical supplies, flooring, wall coverings, cosmetics, personal care products and toys. Their usefulness in industry is undeniable but researchers have observed harmful effects on endocrine, metabolic and neurological systems in the human body. Although elimination […]

Microbiome Modulation to Improve Sleep: Webinar Recap

by

Proper sleep is vital for a healthy body and mind. Amassing research is drilling down on the role of the microbiome in the complicated matter of sleep rhythms and harmful impacts of deprivation and/or disruption from jet lag, night shift work, and sleep apnea. On December 9, Nutraingredients-USA presented a free one-hour webinar titled Microbiome […]

“Probiowhatics”: New Webinar from IPA & The Gut Stuff

by

The International Probiotics Association, in special collaboration with The Gut Stuff, recently hosted “Probiowhatics?” — a webinar with a panel of probiotic experts and influencers. Lisa MacFarlane, co-founder with her twin sister Alana Macfarlane Kempner of The Gut Stuff, introduced the sessions with George Paraskevakos, Executive Director of IPA. “Probiowhatics” speakers Anthony Thomas, Ph.D., Director […]

Can Probiotics Improve Memory?

by

While some things in life are best forgotten, our memories build the framework of intelligence — cognitive, emotional, and social — enabling a rich existence. Memory is required to learn a language, drive a car, write computer code, keep a friend and, of course, remember where you put the keys. Decades of research have revealed […]

Probiotics to Prevent Antibiotic Resistance: the Time is Now

by

By Kristine Koppelhus MSc Nutrition, BioGaia What is antibiotic resistance? Drug-resistant bacteria that have adapted and acquired the ability to survive in the presence of the drugs intended to kill them. The result is that our pool of effective drugs is shrinking as antibiotics are becoming less effective at treating diseases. Overuse and misuse of […]

Cesarean Section & Food Allergy: A Role for Probiotics?

by

A peanut butter sandwich may seem innocuous, but for a growing number of children, it may be harmful or even life-threatening. Food allergies to peanuts, tree nuts and shellfish cause the most severe reactions but eggs, milk, wheat and soy are also on the list of potential antigens. Food allergies in children are becoming more […]

7 Things Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus Is Good For

by

Meet Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus: The Happy Wanderer ____________________________________________________________________________ The way these friendly microbes travel is fascinating! Meet Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, who we like to call the Happy Wanderers among your microbiota. Science geeks would describe Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus as rod-shaped, gram-positive anaerobic cells found in chains, but we like to think of them as smiling groups of helpful […]

Bowel Prep for Colonoscopies Disrupts Gut Microbes

by

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer deaths —after lung cancer —worldwide. The World Health Organization reported 1,930,000 new cases and 935,000 deaths in 2020.  In the United States, early detection and prevention have contributed to rapid decreases in CRC incidence and mortality in the last 20 years. Reductions are thought to […]

Probiotics Sales Lead Supplement Category at Amazon

by

Probiotic supplements sales grew 48% in 2020 from the year before, topping the category at Amazon online. Fantastic news — and a key takeaway from a free webinar “What’s Driving Probiotics Sales Growth on Amazon?” offered recently by International Probiotics Association (IPA) in partnership with ClearCut Analytics. Dan Harari who leads business development for the […]

Interplay of Viruses, the Microbiome and Probiotics

by

Viral infections — such as SARS-CoV-2 causing this pandemic — have long threatened life on earth, most likely for billions of years. In the 21st century, respiratory tract infections, HIV and infectious gastroenteritis are some of the leading causes of premature death across the world. Because few solutions have been developed to combat viral infections, […]

Probiotic Supplements: Six-Part Series

by

Choosing a probiotic isn’t getting any easier. As new offers flood the market, the different types, doses and delivery systems of probiotics offer abundant choices. But the sheer number of different probiotic supplements can be overwhelming In a series of blogs, IPA tackled a few of the most common areas of confusion and misinformation regarding […]

Probiotic Supplements: Take with Antibiotics?

by

Antibiotics kill off pathogens, saving untold numbers of lives every year. Unfortunately, the 20th century wonder drugs also destroy a lot of beneficial bacteria along the way. The ensuing disturbances in gut microbiota communities can lead to diarrhea and other displays of dysbiosis. Antibiotics disrupt gut microbiota When antibiotics are administered, dysbiosis may occur rapidly, […]

Probiotic Supplements: Refrigerate or Not?

by

Many people keep probiotic supplements in the refrigerator, often wedged between bottles of kombucha and cartons of yogurt. But it can get crowded. Could probiotic supplements be stored in a cupboard near vitamins and fish oil capsules? In other words, do probiotic supplements require refrigeration? Brief background As “live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate […]

Probiotic Supplements: Does Time of Day Matter?

by

After deciding which probiotic supplement offers the beneficial strains that meet your health goals, you may consider what time of day to take it. Is a probiotic supplement best taken on an empty stomach? Or perhaps it should be taken with food? Various health sites and blogs offer advice on those very questions. Unfortunately, the […]

Probiotic Supplements: Delivery Formats

by

Once a consumer or practitioner decides which probiotic strain may benefit a specific health target, they must choose from a vast array of formats such as pills, capsules, powders, gummies, suppositories and liquids. Note: Fermented foods and beverages such as yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir, and kombucha are more difficult to assess quantitatively as a probiotic for […]

Probiotic Supplements: What is an Adequate Dosage?

by

In the past decade, probiotic supplement dosages have rocketed from millions to billions of CFUs, with some boasting as many as 200 billion. While more may be better when it comes to love and money, this is not necessarily —but can be — the case with probiotics. CFUs or colony forming units:  a unit of […]

Saccharomyces boulardii

by

The Best Microbial Travel Buddy in Your Gut One of the only probiotic yeasts, Saccharomyces boulardii, can be described as the best travel buddy in your gut. A resilient traveler, who is always moving to find the next best place to visit, this budding, digestion-helping, pathogen-eliminating yeast is not your regular bread yeast. Saccharomyces boulardii […]

Health Professionals’ Knowledge on Probiotics

by

Patients often rely on health professionals to guide them on probiotics. Questions abound: which conditions may benefit, which probiotic, what dosage and a multitude of others. Sorting through all the data and information available may cause confusion — not only in patients but also for the very people trusted to give advice. Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, […]

Diversity Matters in Microbiota

by

Diversity enriches our global ecosystems. It appears to be no different for many sites of the human body hosting microbial populations — albeit with at least one striking exception. For example, vaginal microbiota is distinct in that greater bacterial diversity is seen in women with bacterial vaginosis, which goes against the assumption that higher diversity […]

Probiota 2021 Summit, An Excerpt

by

As promised, Probiota 2021 Summit in February offered expert speakers and vigorous panels who engaged on key issues affecting the business of the microbiome:  IPA has been dipping back into the webinar. First up was a presentation from Ruairi Robertson PhD at Queen Mary University in London on what the future may hold for microbiome […]

Severe Acute Malnutrition & Probiotics

by

Heartbreakingly, malnutrition is responsible for 35% of deaths among children under five globally. And for survivors of early undernutrition, the long-term consequences may include increased risk of stunting, impaired neurodevelopment and negative social and economic impacts. Recent research indicates that gut microbiota (GM) dysbiosis may be involved in development or maintenance of acute malnutrition, opening […]

Probiotics and Human Papillomavirus: A Look at the Research

by

Each year, more than half a million women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and the disease leads to more than 300,000 deaths worldwide. High-risk subtypes of the human papilloma virus (HPV) are the cause of the disease in most cases.  HPV is not shy. A woman’s lifetime risk of acquiring HPV exceeds 80%  but the majority […]

CRISPR for Next-Gen Probiotics

by

“You may be a surprised,” said Rodolphe Barrangou, PhD, “but we already live arguably in a post-CRISPR world where some people afflicted with genetic disease have already been treated with and cured with genome-editing based gene therapies.” For those of us still living in a pre-CRISPR world, Dr. Barrangou presented “Implementing the CRISPR craze in […]

IPA Explores Natural Products Expo West 2025

by

From March 4-7, 2025, Natural Products Expo West made its return to the Anaheim Convention Center near Los Angeles, California. Despite a few clouds and raindrops, the popular event drew an estimated 65,000 attendees eager to explore the latest in natural, organic, and socially responsible products at this premier industry trade show. George Paraskevakos, Executive […]

Najla Guthrie Highlights Leadership –  Influence, Innovation & Impact In the Biotics Sectors and Life!

by

In this episode, IPA’s ECC Director, Sandra Saville exchanges with Najla Guthrie, Founder of KGK Science and IPA Board Member.  IPA is proud to partner with Women in Nutraceuticals to highlight the inspiring journeys of successful women in our industry, sharing and learning from their valuable insights and the stories behind their accomplishments. Listen to the episode here Over 25 […]

Vitafoods Europe 2025 – Biotic Resource Centre

by

Once again, the Biotic Resource Centre is back at Vitafoods Europe!  If you’re interested in the latest developments in all biotics, you’ll want to visit the IPA and it’s member companies at Vitafoods Europe! What is the Biotics Resource Center? The Biotics Resource is a dedicated area within Vitafoods Europe where visitors can learn about  all biotics and their applications in the food, beverage, […]

HPA (China News) – February 2025

by

1. Recently, the National Health Commission has newly accepted the applications for six novel food ingredients. These include silk fibroin protein, β-lactoglobulin (non-animal source), N-acetylneuraminic acid, Fusarium venenatum protein, Lactobacillus paracasei N1115, and L-ergothioneine. 2. On February 8, the “National Food Safety Standard for the Use of Food Additives” (GB 2760-2024) was officially implemented! The 2014 version of the standard, which […]

Gut-Brain Connection: New Insights into Anorexia Nervosa

by

Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is a complex psychiatric disease with an increased mortality risk and a prevalence rising notably among young people. While treatment primarily focuses on psychological therapy and refeeding, these strategies often yield limited success. Recent research, however, suggests that the gut microbiota may play a role in both the condition’s development and the […]

HPA (China) News – January 2025

by

1. At the 7th China International Import Expo, Ausnutria showcased nearly 60 products from its six imported brands, including Kabrita, Hyproca, Nutrition Care, Oz Farm, Amalthea, and CBM goat milk-based powder. Six new products made their debut at the event, including Kabrita Yuebai Platinum Edition and the upgraded version of NC Shubi Probiotics.   2. PrecisionBiotics […]

© International Probiotics Association

X