Probiotic Opportunities in Functional Foods

Probiotics certainly have been trending in the news this year, especially in the functional foods sector. Not only are they considered important in digestive health, probiotics support a host of health conditions, including brain health, immune health, obesity prevention and even pregnancy health.

Just the other day, my father in law (an internist specializing in nephrology) and I were discussing a recent study linking probiotics to a reduced risk of upper respiratory infections. He was pleased to hear me say I was boosting my intake of probiotic-fortified yogurts and dairy drinks in an effort to ward off my annual bout with bronchitis that usually ruins my Christmas holiday.

The probiotics landscape continues to evolve, with tons of ongoing research, significant regulatory developments, increased interest from the medical community, and an ever-changing consumer.

For those who want to learn more about probiotic opportunities, a comprehensive look at probiotic issues will be presented on Friday, Oct. 14, 2011, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. at a SupplySide West workshop: “Probiotic Update: Insights and Perspectives from the Physician, Regulator and Market Analyst." Developed and presented with the International Probiotics Association (IPA), this post-conference workshop will cover a host of issues, including what physicians think about probiotics and their role in patient care, current regulatory developments in the United States, European Union and elsewhere, and what consumers really want when it comes to probiotics.

I hope to see you at this in-depth workshop that will provide you with answers and engage you with the core of the probiotics industry.

The session, held in conjunction with VIRGO and the International Probiotics Association (IPA), is co-sponsored by CHR Hansen A/S, Danisco USA Inc., Institut Rosell-Lallemand, Morinaga Milk Industry Co. Ltd., Nutraceutix Inc. and Wakunaga of America Co. Ltd.