Probiotic products from laboratory to commercialization

Abstract

Background

Probiotics have a long-standing history and play a significant role in human nutrition, culture, and economic growth. In 2023, global financial revenue from probiotics reached 87.7 billion USD, with projections indicating continued economic growth in future. Current researches extensively explore the effects of probiotics on a range of health functions, including mental health, obesity, immune modulation, and metabolic disorders in the laboratory. However, translating these laboratory findings into effective market-ready products remains a challenge.

Scope and approach

In this article, we analyze the successful transfer of probiotic products to the market, address challenges related to the lack of scientific validation for some probiotic products, and outline effective pathways for translating probiotic innovations from laboratory to commercialization.

Key findings

The successful commercialization of probiotic research has led to products such as Yakult, Actimel, Jiangshui yogurt, GoodBelly, and various probiotic supplements achieving strong market value with 14 % of growth increase. However, some probiotic products enter the market without scientific validation, often marketed under popular brand names for trendy drinks and foods. These products frequently unverified probiotic claims or even counterfeit trademarks, creates confusion for researchers aiming to translate laboratory findings into products. Moreover, strategy for translating probiotic research to market involves ensuring product quality, collaboration with government and industry partners, and adhering to regulatory standards. The transfer of probiotic products aims to improve public health for example products like Jiangshui yogurt, Actimel, and GoodBelly claim to reduce hyperuricemia, lower cholesterol, and decrease cancer risk.