Antimicrobial and antidiabetic potential of synbiotic fermented milk: A functional dairy product

Potential of Synbiotics and Probiotics as Chemopreventive Agent

Cancer remains a global problem, with millions of new cases diagnosed yearly and countless lives lost. The financial burden of cancer therapy, along with worries about the long-term safety of existing medicines, necessitates the investigation of alternative approaches to cancer prevention. Probiotics generate chemopreventive compounds such as bacteriocins, short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), which have demonstrated the ability to impede cancer cell proliferation, induce apoptosis, and bolster the expression of pro-apoptotic genes. On the other hand, prebiotics, classified as non-digestible food ingredients, promote the proliferation of probiotics within the colon, thereby ensuring sustained functionality of the gut microbiota. Consequently, the synergistic effect of combining prebiotics with probiotics, known as the synbiotic effect, in dietary interventions holds promise for potentially mitigating cancer risk and augmenting preventive measures. The utilization of gut microbiota in cancer treatment has shown promise in alleviating adverse health effects. This review explored the potential and the role of probiotics and synbiotics in enhancing health and contributing to cancer prevention efforts. In this review, the applications of functional probiotics and synbiotics, the mechanisms of action of probiotics in cancer, and the relationship of probiotics with various drugs were discussed, shedding light on the potential of probiotics and synbiotics to alleviate the burdens of cancer treatment.

Viability of Free and Alginate-Carrageenan Gum Coated Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lacticaseibacillus casei in Functional Cottage Cheese

The survivability of encapsulated and nonencapsulated probiotics consisting of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lacticaseibacillus casei and the nutritional, physicochemical, and sensorial features of cottage cheese were investigated under refrigeration storage at 4 °C for 28 days. Microbeads of L. acidophilus and L. casei were developed using 2% sodium alginate, 1.5% sodium alginate and 0.5% carrageenan, and 1% sodium alginate and 1% carrageenan using an encapsulation technique to assess the probiotic viability in cottage cheese under different gastrointestinal conditions (SGF (simulated gastric juice), SIF (simulated intestinal fluid)), and bile salt) and storage conditions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) elucidated the stable structure of microbeads, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the presence probiotics in the microcapsules, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) demonstrated the amorphous state of microbeads. Furthermore, the highest encapsulation efficiency was observed for alginate 1% and carrageenan 1% microbeads (T3), i.e., 95%. Likewise, viability was recorded in T3 against SGF, SIF, and bile salt solution, i.e., 8.5, 8.8, and 8.9 log CFU/g at 80 min of exposure, compared to the control. The results of pH showed a significant (p < 0.05) decline that ultimately increased the titratable acidity. Nutritional analysis of cottage cheese revealed the highest levels of ash, protein, and total solids in T3, exhibiting mean values of 3.2, 22, and 43.2 g/100 g, respectively, after 28 days of storage. The sensory evaluation of cottage cheese demonstrated better color, flavor, and textural attributes in T3. Conclusively, synergistic addition of L. acidophilus and L. casei encapsulated with alginate-carrageenan gums was found to be more effective in improving the viability of probiotics in cottage cheese than noncapsulated cells while carrying better magnitudes of ash and protein, lower acidity, and pleasant taste.

An overview of fermentation in the food industry - looking back from a new perspective

Fermentation is thought to be born in the Fertile Crescent, and since then, almost every culture has integrated fermented foods into their dietary habits. Originally used to preserve foods, fermentation is now applied to improve their physicochemical, sensory, nutritional, and safety attributes. Fermented dairy, alcoholic beverages like wine and beer, fermented vegetables, fruits, and meats are all highly valuable due to their increased storage stability, reduced risk of food poisoning, and enhanced flavor. Over the years, scientific research has associated the consumption of fermented products with improved health status. The fermentation process helps to break down compounds into more easily digestible forms. It also helps to reduce the amount of toxins and pathogens in food. Additionally, fermented foods contain probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that help the body to digest food and absorb nutrients. In today's world, non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and allergies have increased. In this regard, scientific investigations have demonstrated that shifting to a diet that contains fermented foods can reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases. Moreover, in the last decade, there has been a growing interest in fermentation technology to valorize food waste into valuable by-products. Fermentation of various food wastes has resulted in the successful production of valuable by-products, including enzymes, pigments, and biofuels.

Kombucha: Challenges for Health and Mental Health

BACKGROUND

Increasing research into probiotics is showing potential benefits for health in general and mental health in particular. Kombucha is a recent beverage and can be considered a probiotic drink, but little is known about its effects on physical and mental health. This product is experiencing growth in the market; however, there are no scientific results to support its potential for physical and mental health.

AIM

This review article aims to draw attention to this issue and to highlight the lack of studies in this area.

KEY FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS

The lack of legislation for the correct marketing of this product may also constrain clinical studies. However, clinical studies are of utmost importance for an in-depth understanding of the effects of this product on the human body. More research is needed, not only to better understand the impact of Kombucha on the human body, but also to ensure the application of regulatory guidelines for its production and marketing and enable its safe and effective consumption.

Synbiotic formulations with microbial biofilm, animal derived (casein, collagen, chitosan) and plant derived (starch, cellulose, alginate) prebiotic polymers: A review

The need for a broader range of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics to improve the activity and functioning of gut microbiota has led to the development of new nutraceuticals formulations. These techniques majorly depend on the type of the concerned food, inclusive factors i.e. application of biotic components, probiotics, and synbiotics along with the type of encapsulation involved. For improvisation of the oral transfer mode of synbiotics delivery within the intestine along with viability, efficacy, and stability co-encapsulation is required. The present study explores encapsulation materials, probiotics and prebiotics in the form of synbiotics. The emphasis was given to the selection and usage of probiotic delivery matrix or prebiotic polymers, which primarily include animal derived (gelatine, casein, collagen, chitosan) and plant derived (starch, cellulose, pectin, alginate) materials. Beside this, the role of microbial polymers and biofilms (exopolysaccharides, extracellular polymeric substances) has also been discussed in the formation of probiotic functional foods. In this instance, the microbial biofilm is also used as suitable polymeric compound for encapsulation providing stability, viability, and efficacy. Thus, the review highlights the utilization of diverse prebiotic polymers in synbiotic formulations, along with microbial biofilms, which hold great potential for enhancing gut microbiota activity and improving overall health.

Kombucha: Perceptions and Future Prospects

Background: Kombucha is an increasingly consumed product classified as a nutraceutical. Legislative efforts about these products remain confusing and without global harmonization. This natural product has been developed to improve or promote physical and mental health. However, it needs regulatory guidelines to control the production and guarantee the product’s efficacy and safety. Aim: The study intends to draw attention to the need for regulatory guidelines and the potential of this product in the market and peoples’ health. Key findings and conclusions: The lack of regulation and the low level of literacy about this product can limit its development, marketing, and impact on health. Thus, it is essential to highlight the potential value of this product and invest in its development and marketing. Likewise, it is important to spread awareness among the population of these products and their impacts on people’s health. Thus, this study focuses on a pertinent theme and alerts to the need for legislation for these products, to draw attention to the inexistent legislative control and the consequent need for regulatory guidelines for better and safer production and consumption.

Assessing synergistic effect of Jerusalem Artichoke juice and antioxidant compounds on enhanced viability and persistence of Bifidobacterium species, palatability, and shelf life

Commercial vegetable and fruit juices with probiotics are new functional type of beverages; however, limitations including persistence and impact of probiotic bacteria on palatability and shelf life may prevent their industrial development. This study evaluated the effect of antioxidant compounds (ascorbic acid, astaxanthin, and ginseng) on viability and persistence of Bifidobacterium spp. in Jerusalem Artichoke (JA) juice; and determine the impact of these antioxidants on the sensory (color, texture, flavor, acidity) properties, free reducing sugar (inulin and fructose), and shelf life in the fortified JA juice. Overall, the JA juice fortified with ascorbic acid showed a significant impact on the rate of persistence of two targeted bifidobacterial strains from 1 to 28 days at 5°C. Both strains produced slight acidity in ascorbic acid fortified JA juice as compared to other tested samples. Similarly, the JA juice fortified with ascorbic acid showed a significantly high increase in the total number of bifidobacterial cells of both species, enhanced palatability, and shelf life as compared to astaxanthin and ginseng extract. The quadratic model indicated a strong association between ascorbic acid, ginseng extract, and astaxanthin with a bifidobacterial cell concentration in the fortified JA juices. The Box–Behnken design was considered a feasible analysis for describing fortified JA juice and the rate of viability and persistence of bifidobacteria during 28 days of storage at 5°C in all trials. In conclusion, JA juice fortified with ascorbic acid showed a significant impact on improving the cell viability and persistence of probiotic bacteria, enhanced palatability, and shelf life as compared to other compounds tested.

Dietary regulations for microbiota dysbiosis among post-menopausal women with type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and T2D-associated comorbidities, such as obesity, are serious universally prevalent health issues among post-menopausal women. Menopause is an unavoidable condition characterized by the depletion of estrogen, a gonadotropic hormone responsible for secondary sexual characteristics in women. In addition to sexual dimorphism, estrogen also participates in glucose-lipid homeostasis, and estrogen depletion is associated with insulin resistance in the female body. Estrogen level in the gut also regulates the microbiota composition, and even conjugated estrogen is actively metabolized by the estrobolome to maintain insulin levels. Moreover, post-menopausal gut microbiota is different from the pre-menopausal gut microbiota, as it is less diverse and lacks the mucolytic Akkermansia and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) producers such as Faecalibacterium and Roseburia. Through various metabolites (SCFAs, secondary bile acid, and serotonin), the gut microbiota plays a significant role in regulating glucose homeostasis, oxidative stress, and T2D-associated pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6). While gut dysbiosis is common among post-menopausal women, dietary interventions such as probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics can ease post-menopausal gut dysbiosis. The objective of this review is to understand the relationship between post-menopausal gut dysbiosis and T2D-associated factors. Additionally, the study also provided dietary recommendations to avoid T2D progression among post-menopausal women.

Physicochemical analysis of non-fermented probiotic milk with probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum Ln1 isolated from Korea traditional fermented food

The objective of this study was to develop a non-fermented probiotic milk that maintains its physicochemical properties, microbial properties, antioxidant activity, and sensory properties during storage (0, 7, and 14 days). During storage, pH and viable cell counts decreased; however, titratable acidity increased. In addition, the composition and sensory characteristics of the non-fermented probiotic milk showed no significant differences between samples (MLN; milk with Lactobacillus plantarum Ln1, MGG; milk with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, and milk control). The antioxidant activities of MLN determined using 2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging, ABTS⁺ radical scavenging, and reducing power assay were higher during the examined storage periods when compared with those of the other samples. Overall, the physicochemical properties, microbial properties, and sensory factors of MLN showed no significant differences. However, high antioxidant activity was observed. Thus, we present a new functional dairy product with antioxidant activity.

The Effect of Banana Fiber and Banana Peel Fiber on the Chemical and Rheological Properties of Symbiotic Yogurt Made from Camel Milk

Functional foods play an important role in human health by prevention of disease. A variety of functional foods are produced around the world. Recently, the consumption of dairy products containing probiotic bacteria and prebiotics (synbiotic) has increased. Yoghurt is the most common fermented dairy product. Various compounds are used to enrich yoghurt. One of these compounds is dietary fiber. Since the peel of fruits has a significant amount of fiber and is mainly disposed of as solid waste, so using the peel of fruits to extract fiber can not only solve environmental problems but also produce a cheap and useful source that leads to the production of dietary fiber. In this study, the effect of banana fiber and banana peel fiber at different concentrations (0, 0.2, 0.5, and 1%) on the chemical and rheological properties of synbiotic yogurt prepared from camel milk was investigated. The result showed that with increase of the amount of both fibers, pH, hydration, surface tension, overall acceptability, color, and flavor of the samples decreased significantly, but the viscosity, survival of probiotic bacteria (Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus gasseri), and texture acceptance increased significantly (p < 0.05). In conclusion, these fibers were able to reduce the syneresis of yogurt, which is one of the biggest disadvantages of yogurt, and help to increase health.

Functional Foods as a formulation ingredients in beverages: Technological Advancements and Constraints

As a consequence of expanded science and technical research, the market perception of consumers has shifted from standard traditional to valuable foods, which are furthermore nutritional as well as healthier in today’s world. This food concept, precisely referred to as functional, focuses on including probiotics, which enhance immune system activity, cognitive response, and overall health. This review primarily focuses on functional foods as functional additives in beverages and other food items that can regulate the human immune system and avert any possibility of contracting the infection. Many safety concerns must be resolved during their administration. Functional foods must have an adequate amount of specific probiotic strain(s) during their use and storage, as good viability is needed for optimum functionality of the probiotic. Thus, when developing novel functional food-based formulations, choosing a strain with strong technological properties is crucial. The present review focused on probiotics as an active ingredient in different beverage formulations and the exerting mechanism of action and fate of probiotics in the human body. Moreover, a comprehensive overview of the regulative and safety issues of probiotics-based foods and beverages formulations.

Effect of Several Pretreatments on the Lactic Acid Production from Exhausted Sugar Beet Pulp

Exhausted sugar beet pulp (ESBP), a by-product of the sugar industry, has been used as a substrate to produce lactic acid (LA). Due to the fact that ESBP contains a high percentage of pectin and hemicellulose, different pretreatments were studied to solubilize them and to facilitate the access to cellulose in the subsequent enzymatic hydrolysis. Several pretreatments were studied, specifically biological, oxidant with alkaline hydrogen peroxide (AHP), and thermochemical with acid (0.25, 0.5, or 1% w/v of H₂SO₄). Pretreated ESBP was enzymatically hydrolysed and fermented with the strain Lactiplantibacillus plantarum for LA production. The hydrolysis was carried out with the commercial enzymes Celluclast^®, pectinase, and xylanase, for 48 h. After that, the hydrolysate was supplemented with yeast extract and calcium carbonate before the bacteria inoculation. Results showed that all the pretreatments caused a modification of the fibre composition of ESBP. In most cases, the cellulose content increased, rising from 25% to 68% when ESBP was pretreated thermochemically at 1% w/v H₂SO₄. The production of LA was enhanced when ESBP was pretreated thermochemically. However, it was reduced when biological and AHP pretreatments were applied. In conclusion, thermochemical pretreatment with 1% w/v H₂SO₄ had a positive impact on the production of LA, increasing its concentration from 27 g/L to 50 g/L.

Potential prebiotic properties of exopolysaccharides produced by a novel Lactobacillus strain, Lactobacillus pentosus YY-112

Exopolysaccharides (EPSs) derived from Lactobacilli have important physiological effects and are commonly used as new prebiotics. We identified and studied a new Lactobacillus strain, YY-112, isolated from waxberry (Myrica rubra). This strain, identified as Lactobacillus pentosus, tolerates acids, bile salts, and artificial digestive fluids. The EPS derived from this strain weighed 5.9 × 10⁴ Da and contained glucose, mannose, glucosamine, galactose, and rhamnose at 62.69 : 85.85 : 2.46 : 2.92 : 1.00 molar ratios. We found that the EPS from this strain increased the ratio of Bacteroidetes to Firmicutes and decreased the relative abundance of Proteobacteria, especially Escherichia-Shigella, when added to a simulated gastrointestinal system in vitro. After analysing the short-chain fatty acids, we found that this EPS promoted the production of acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid, and reduced the ratio of acetic acid to propionic acid. We conclude that Lactobacillus pentosus YY-112 is a potential probiotic strain with EPS that is beneficial for the intestinal microbiota and short-chain fatty acid production.

Effects of potential probiotic strains LBKV-3 on Immune Cells responses in Malnutrite children: a double-blind, randomized, Controlled trial

This study investigated the phagocytic cell response in malnourished children after oral feeding of a fermented product containing clinically proven probiotic strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus, LBKV-3. The bacterial strain is used as a probiotic for humans to test its effect on immune cell activity in undernourished children below 8 years of age. To study the immune cell activity, implantation abilities of the culture in the GI tract of malnourished children, forty-five children of 6-7 and 7-8 years were randomly selected and distributed in three groups, each comprising 15 children in each of the age group. The test group of the children was receiving 100 g product volunteers/day of freshly prepared probiotic acidophilus milk containing 10⁷ cfu/g of culture. The control group was receiving 100 g freshly prepared "dahi" containing 10⁷ cfu/g of the LAB while the blank group of the volunteers was receiving thermal processed (85° C/30 min) buffalo milk containing 5% fat and 10% SNF at the rate of 100 ml/day/volunteer. Feeding trial was continued for 12 weeks. Blood samples were collected at W2, W4, W8, and W12. The blood serum samples were analyzed for monocytes, neutrophils, basophils, and lymphocytes by BC-3000 + Auto Hematology Analyzer. In conclusion, consumption of PAM increased the proportion of immune cells, including monocytes, neutrophils, basophils, and lymphocytes, as well as their phagocytic activity in all age groups but proportion was significant in the test group of 7-8 years. The effects were higher during W12 compared to W2, W4, and W8, which suggest regulation of the immune system.

Valorisation of fungal hydrolysates of exhausted sugar beet pulp for lactic acid production

BACKGROUND

Exhausted sugar beet pulp pellets (ESBPP) were used as raw material for lactic acid (LA) fermentation. The enzymatic hydrolysis of ESBPP was performed with the solid obtained after the fungal solid-state fermentation of ESBPP as a source of hydrolytic enzymes. Subsequently, a medium rich in glucose and arabinose was obtained, which was used to produce LA by fermentation. For LA production, two Lactobacillus strains were assayed and the effects of the supplementation of the hydrolysate with a nitrogen source and the mode of pH regulation of the fermentation were investigated. Moreover, a kinetic model for LA fermentation by Lactobacillus plantarum of ESBPP hydrolysates was developed.

RESULTS

L. plantarum produced a LA concentration 34% higher than that produced by L. casei. The highest LA concentration (30 g L^-1 ) was obtained with L. plantarum when the hydrolysate was supplemented with 5 g L^-1 yeast extract and the pH was controlled with CaCO₃ . The concentration of acetic acid differed depending on the concentration of CaCO₃ added, producing its maximum value with 27 g L^-1 CaCO₃ . The proposed kinetic model was able to predict the evolution of substrates and products depending on the variation of the pH in the hydrolysate, according to the amount of CaCO₃ added.

CONCLUSIONS

ESBPP can be revalorised to produce LA. A pure LA stream or a mixture of LA and acetic acid, depending on the pH control method of the fermentation, can be produced. Thus, this control is of great interest depending on the destination of the effluent. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Immuno-modulation by heat-killed Lacticaseibacillus paracasei MCC1849 and its application to food products

Probiotics are microorganisms that confer health benefits to host. Well-known examples include Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species. In recent years, interest in promoting our health with probiotics has grown as life expectancy and health awareness has increased. However, some concerns for safety and stability exist for these live organisms. Thus, “postbiotics” and “paraprobiotics,” non-viable heat-killed microbial cells or cell fractions that retain health benefits, are increasingly favored. Unfortunately, little information on clinical efficacy and mechanisms of action is available compared with many available probiotics. Lacticaseibacillus (previous name Lactobacillus) paracasei MCC1849 is a commonly used lactic acid bacterial strain in Japan that displays immuno-modulatory effects in humans in non-viable heat-killed form. This review discusses health benefits of heat-killed L. paracasei MCC1849 immune modulation and offers a theoretical basis for its mechanisms of action. We also discuss the feasibility of using heat-killed probiotics for application in food products.

Current trends in non-dairy based synbiotics

Probiotics provide many beneficial effects to the human body. Traditionally, food products used to deliver bacterial cells are fermented dairy products, among which yogurt is the most common. However, many people suffer from lactose intolerance and indigestion, who need nutrients from non-dairy products without using animal proteins. Thus, there is a need to develop synbiotics based on non-dairy food matrices. This paper reviews the potential and emerging candidates of pre and probiotic groups. The criteria for qualifying bacteria as probiotics and nutrients as prebiotics are discussed. One of the promising prebiotics explored in the recent past is the dietary fibers in the peels of potato, apples, and other fruits. This paper summarizes methods for the preparation of dietary fiber-based non-dairy synbiotics such as microencapsulation, freeze-drying, and spray drying. The standard testing protocols of synbiotics including the in vitro trials are presented. Synbiotics not only favor the survival of probiotics in the gastric conditions of the human gut but also exhibit antimicrobial activity, which confirms their ability to protect the human body from infection. Many fiber-based non-dairy synbiotic products are available in the market and these are also highlighted. The challenges faced by non-dairy-based synbiotics which open up new research opportunities and market demand are also identified.

Effects of using different O2 scavengers on the qualitative attributes of bifidus yogurt during refrigerated storage

Among the factors that adversely influence the viability of probiotics, the oxygen content of the product and the permeation of oxygen molecules through the packaging system have a noticeable role in the viability loss during the manufacture and storage of fermented milk products. The objective of this study was to examine the qualitative attributes of probiotic yogurt containing different O₂ scavengers, including the commercial O₂ absorber and cysteine-ascorbic acid. Bifidobacterium lactis BIA-7 and B. longum BIA-8 were used as probiotic strains for the production of bio-yogurts. The biochemical parameters, including the changes in pH, titratable acidity, redox potential and incubation time, were determined throughout the fermentation period at 30-min intervals. Also, the changes in viable count, pH, redox potential, titratable acidity, and dissolved oxygen were evaluated at 7-day intervals during the 28 days of refrigerated storage. In addition, the evaluation of rheological and sensory properties measured in the freshly made samples was carried out. The results showed that the utilization of different oxygen scavengers has an effective impact on the decrement of oxygen content and improvement of probiotic viability. As such, the population of B. lactis in the treatments containing various oxygen scavengers was maintained above 7 log CFU/mL throughout the refrigerated storage. Notwithstanding the effective function of cysteine-ascorbic acid in the enhancement of viability, the containing treatments had not only weaker gel structure probably due to short incubation time (360 min) and fast acidification [22.20-22.35 (˚D/min) × 10^-2], but also lower sensory acceptance. Overall, the yogurt treatment containing commercial O₂ scavenger and B. lactis indicated a great potential for the industrial applications. To the best of our knowledge, there is no study on the efficiency of commercial O₂ absorber as a potential factor to maintain the viability of probiotics in yogurt.

Comparative effects of probiotic and paraprobiotic addition on microbiological, biochemical and physical properties of yogurt

Paraprobiotics are inactivated probiotics that exert various health and technological benefits making them suitable for production of functional yogurt. In the present study, probiotic yogurt containing Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC SD 5221 and Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12 and paraprobiotic yogurt containing inactivated form of the mentioned bacteria were produced and were compared regarding microbiological, biochemical, and physical properties during 28 days of storage at refrigerated temperature. Results revealed that the greatest mean pH drop rate, mean acidity increase rate, mean redox potential increase rate, final acidity and final redox potential were observed in yogurt containing inactivated L. acidophilus added before fermentation. The highest lactic acid after 28 days of storage was obtained in samples prepared by addition of paraprobiotic form of L. acidophilus after fermentation. Yogurt samples with B. lactis and L. acidophilus added after fermentation showed the highest and lowest acetic acid level, respectively after 28 days of storage. The samples containing L. acidophilus and B. lactis had the highest acetaldehyde on day 0 while on day 28, L. acidophilus had more impact on acetaldehyde generation in yogurts. Addition of paraprobiotics increased viability of starter cultures. In addition, incorporation of inactivated probiotic cells into yogurt resulted in lower syneresis and the higher WHC compared to probiotic yogurt samples. Regarding color parameters, it was observed that color parameters (a*, b* and L*) were not influenced by paraprobiotic in probiotic and paraprobiotic yogurts. Overall, it can be concluded that incorporation of paraprobiotics into yogurt involves less technological challenges and can be considered as a suitable appropriate alternative for probiotics in development of functional yogurt.

Effects of Chia Seed Levels on Quality and Bio-Functional Profile of Stirred Yoghurt

Yoghurt is considered as a healthy food. Thus, it could convey functional and bioactive ingredients. Chia seeds are of great interest due to their ability to improve consumer health. In this study, chia seeds were added to stirred yoghurt at different doses (1.5, 3, 4.5, or 6%). The effects of chia seeds on physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory qualities were assessed during 28 days of refrigerated storage. The results showed that chia seeds slightly decreased post-acidification, the lowest value was obtained in yogurt with 3% chia seeds (24°D), but syneresis rose significantly (P<0.05) when 6% of chia seeds was added. Furthermore, chia seeds promote viability of yoghurt bacteria, and antioxidant activity reached 62.20±0.02% in yoghurt added with 1.5% chia seeds. However, proteolysis is not affected. The effects of chia seeds were not dose dependent as 4.5% and 6% did not follow trend. These findings were affirmed by sensory characteristics. Thus, stirred yoghurt containing 1.5 or 3% of chia seeds proved to be the most adequate choices.

Optimization of the Production of ε-Poly-L-Lysine by Novel Producer Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Traditional Dairy Products

New strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were isolated from different traditional dairy products. Six new strains named Lactobacillus delbrueckii strain A01, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus strain D01, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus strain E01, Lactococcus lactis strain G01, Lactobacillus delbrueckii strain C01, and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus strain F01 were identified using 16S rDNA sequencing, morphological and biochemical traits. All strains have been registered in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) with accession numbers MN611241.1, MN611300.1, MN611301.1, MN611303.1, MN611241.1, and MN611299.1, respectively. Having found ε-Poly-L-Lysine (ε-PL) in all strains isolated, Lactobacillus delbrueckii strain A01 was identified as an active producer of ε-Poly-L-Lysine (ε-PL). The one-factor-at-a-time method and central composite design were applied to optimize ε-Poly-L-Lysine (ε-PL). A predicted 200 ppm of ε-PL was obtained in the medium containing the lowest level of glucose, 25 g/l, and yeast extract, 6 g/l.

Developing novel synbiotic low-fat yogurt with fucoxylogalacturonan from tragacanth gum: Investigation of quality parameters and Lactobacillus casei survival

Tragacanth gum (TG) displayed a prebiotic activity, but its application was restricted due to high viscosity and deterioration of organoleptic and textural characteristics of food. In this study, TG was depolymerized by Pectinex Ultra Color enzyme followed by membrane separation (30 kDa) to get pectinase hydrolyzed fraction of tragacanth gum (PHFTG) with molecular weight more than 30 kDa. The average molecular weight of PHFTG was 147.7 ± 11.5 g/mol having a fucoxylogalacturonan structure. The prebiotic activity was tested using PHFTG, TG, and inulin as a carbon source. The results showed that the count of Lactobacillus casei in PHFTG- and inulin-supplemented media increased significantly during the 48-hr fermentation (p < .05). Five batches of low-fat set yogurts were prepared by the following formulation: Control (without both L. casei and prebiotic), LC-Cont (containing L. casei), LC-PHFTG (containing L. casei + 0.5% PHFTG), LC-TG (containing L. casei + 0.05% TG), and LC-In (containing L. casei + 0.5% inulin), and L. casei population and physicochemical properties were monitored during 21-day storage at 4°C. The number of L. casei remained highly acceptable (8.54-8.61 log CFU/g) during 7-21 days of storage in LC-PHFTG. LC-In and LC-PHFTG presented significantly lower syneresis and higher sensory acceptability than LC-Cont and Control during storage (p < .05). LC-TG displayed weaker body and texture, lower sensory acceptability, and higher syneresis than other samples. This study provides support for expanding the utilization of PHFTG as a potential prebiotic and fat replacer in non- or low-fat dairy products with satisfactory sensory quality.

Tetramethylpyrazine production from edible materials by the probiotic Bacillus coagulans

2,3,5,6-Tetramethylpyrazine (TMP) has health care functions, especially for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health. In this study, we found that Bacillus coagulans, a well-known probiotic, has the capability to produce acetoin, a precursor of TMP. The culture conditions and medium for the production of TMP by B. coagulans CICC 20138 were optimized. Then, a novel three-step process was successfully performed for the production of TMP from edible materials by B. coagulans. First, in the acetoin enrichment process, 12.61 ± 0.34 g/L acetoin was generated at 36 h. Second, in the spore enrichment process, various factors were optimized to make the bacteria produce more spores to improve the resistance to subsequent high-temperature reactions. Third, in the TMP enrichment process, the final concentration of TMP and B. coagulans spores contained in the product reached 2.54 ± 0.26 g/L and 8.81 × 10⁸ CFU/mL at 46 h, respectively. This is the first report of using a probiotic bacterium to produce TMP. Using edible materials and the probiotic strain, this work provides a novel method for the production of a TMP food additive rich in B. coagulans spores.

Effectiveness of probiotics, prebiotics, and prebiotic-like components in common functional foods

The bioactive ingredients in commonly consumed foods include, but are not limited to, prebiotics, prebiotic-like components, probiotics, and postbiotics. The bioactive ingredients in functional foods have also been associated with beneficial effects on human health. For example, they aid in shaping of gut microflora and promotion of immunity. These functional components also contribute in preventing serious diseases such as cardiovascular malfunction and tumorigenesis. However, the specific mechanisms of these positive influences on human health are still under investigation. In this review, we aim to emphasize the major contents of probiotics, prebiotics, and prebiotic-like components commonly found in consumable functional foods, and we present an overview of direct and indirect benefits they provide on human health. The major contributors are certain families of metabolites, specifically short-chain fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids produced by probiotics, and prebiotics, or prebiotic-like components such as flavonoids, polyphenols, and vitamins that are found in functional foods. These functional ingredients in foods influence the gut microbiota by stimulating the growth of beneficial microbes and the production of beneficial metabolites that, in turn, have direct benefits to the host, while also providing protection from pathogens and maintaining a balanced gut ecosystem. The complex interactions that arise among functional food ingredients, human physiology, the gut microbiota, and their respective metabolic pathways have been found to minimize several factors that contribute to the incidence of chronic disease, such as inflammation oxidative stress.

Probiotic Lactobacillus strains from Mongolia improve calcium transport and uptake by intestinal cells in vitro

The aim of this study was to investigate the probiotic properties of 174 Lactobacillus strains isolated from Mongolian dairy products, and particularly their impact on intestinal calcium uptake and absorption. All isolates underwent a first screening based on cell surface hydrophobicity, acid tolerance, tolerance to gastro-intestinal digestion, autoaggregation, adhesion and cytotoxicity against intestinal cells. Six Lactobacillus strains from different species (L. casei, L. kefiranofaciens, L. plantarum, L. fermentum, L. helveticus and L. delbrueckii) were selected, and their impact on intestinal calcium uptake and transport was investigated using Caco-2. Five strains were able to improve total calcium transport after 24 h contact with a differentiated Caco-2 cell monolayer. Concomitantly the L. plantarum strain was able to increase cellular calcium uptake in Caco-2 cells by 10% in comparison to control conditions. To determine which pathway(s) of calcium absorption was modulated by the strains, a qPCR-based study on 4 genes related to calcium/vitamin D metabolism or tight junction integrity was conducted on mucus-secreting intestinal HT-29 MTX cells. The L. plantarum strain modulates the transcellular pathway by regulating the expression of vitamin D receptor (1.79 fold of control) and calcium transporter (4.77 fold of control) while the L. delbrueckii strain acts on the paracellular pathway by modulating claudin-2 expression (2.83 fold of control). This work highlights the impact of Lactobacillus probiotic strains on intestinal calcium absorption and for the first time give some evidence about the cellular pathways involved.

Whole genome sequence analysis and in vitro probiotic characteristics of a Lactobacillus strain Lactobacillus paracasei ZFM54

AIM

The aim was to identify a Lactobacillus strain with potential probiotic characteristics by whole-genome sequence analysis and in vitro experimental studies.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The whole-genome sequencing was carried out using PacBio RSII sequencing method and Illumina's paired-end sequencing technology. Gene prediction and annotation were achieved using GlimmerVersion 3.02 and NCBI prokaryotic Genome Annotation Pipeline. Identification was done by biochemical tests and 16S rRNA sequence analysis. mega 6 software was used to build phylogenetic tree. Antagonism against pathogen was determined by agar well diffusion method. Resistance and stability to bile, simulated gastric acid, different salt concentration and thermostability were investigated. Hydrophobicity assay, aggregation assay and anti-oxidation assay were performed to check further probiotic traits. Finally antibiotic susceptibility and acute oral toxicity of the strain in mice were investigated to check its safety status. The strain showed >99% similarity to Lactobacillus paracasei which was further confirmed by biochemical tests. It significantly inhibited pathogens in agar well diffusion assay. It showed tolerance to simulated gastric acid (pH 3), 0·3% bile salt and 10% NaCl. Significant hydrophobic, aggregation and anti-oxidizing activities were observed. No resistance to antibiotics tested was observed and no adverse effects during acute oral toxicity in mice were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Lactobacillus paracasei ZFM 54, a new and safe Lactobacillus strain was identified with numerous probiotic-associated genes and characteristics confirmed by experimental studies.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

A new probiotic strain has been identified which is highly stable, safe and suitable to be used in health and food industries.