Choose Wisely, You Must: Method Selection for Probiotic Enumeration and Identification

Original Air Date: Tuesday, October 25th  | 60 Minutes

A successful probiotic product must deliver on all of the claims made on its packaging whether it is a specific cell count or the presence of a specific probiotic strain providing the structure-function health benefit.

When it comes to testing to support the claims, one size does not fit all for probiotic cultures! Because probiotics are live microorganisms, their testing has unique requirements. Howaru scientists have developed optimized test methods for their probiotic strains. Their enumeration methods capitalize on their intimate knowledge of probiotic growth. The PCR-based assays have been verified by in-silico comparative analyses and specificity testing, enable strain-specific identification of Howaru probiotics in single or multi-strain products. These assays reassure customers, improve quality, and ensure the efficacy of probiotic products in the marketplace.

When manufacturing a probiotic product, verification of the label claim is the key element in releasing product to market.  Confirming probiotic potency and identity, as part of a company’s quality control program, relies on traditional plate count measurements producing colony-forming units (CFU) in conjunction with PCR based or sequencing assays to confirm identity of the probiotic strains. Since probiotic manufacturers have developed and validated enumeration and identification methods tailored to their particular strains, it is important to have access to a testing partner like Eurofins that is proficient in running your supplier’s unique methods. While all plate count enumeration methods are the same in principal, small differences in a key step(s) that have been identified by the supplier can affect recovery and ultimately your ability to release product. Finally, as finished product producers aim to differentiate their products, having the ability include the unique strains (not species!) present on your label and verify their presence is an edge that all probiotic producers should consider.   

What you will learn during the presentation: 

• Dive deep into Howaru's portfolio of strains offered
• Understand which methods to choose for Howaru strain identification and enumeration tests
• Learn why choosing the right method means accurate results and accurate label claims
• Determine what you should look for when choosing a lab testing provider

Presenters: 

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