In the past few years, the probiotics industry has been growing rapidly worldwide. Probiotics are beneficial live bacteria and yeasts that support overall health, especially by promoting a healthy digestive system. They are always known as good or friendly bacteria. These are found in foods such as yoghurt, kefir, and some supplements. People take probiotics to improve digestion, boost immunity, and regain balance in the natural bacteria in their bodies.
Furthermore, the demand for probiotics is increasing as more people are looking for natural ways to stay healthy. Many people find probiotics to help with issues like bloating, constipation, and even mental health. There are many different types of probiotics in the market, consisting of lactobacillus and bifidobacterium, each type has its own unique benefits.
Food and beverage organizations are adding probiotics to daily merchandise such as drinks and snacks. This makes it easier for humans to feature probiotics in their diets. The move toward healthier living is driving businesses to expand new probiotic products. This growth shows that probiotics are becoming a popular choice for health and well-being.
According to the recent report published by Allied Market Research, the global probiotics market is anticipated to showcase a noteworthy CAGR of 8.6% during the forecast period.
The growing role of probiotics in managing GI disorders across all age groups
Probiotics are useful bacteria which are commonly used to prevent different gastrointestinal diseases. They are especially effective in treating conditions such as acute infectious diarrhea, antibiotic-related diarrhea, and diarrhea caused by Clostridium difficile. In addition, probiotics can help manage other conditions, like necrotizing enterocolitis, hepatic encephalopathy, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, and various functional GI disorders.
According to the World Health Organization, about 1.7 billion cases of childhood diarrhea occur worldwide each year. In India, diarrhea is the third leading cause of death among children. Probiotics, available in forms like tablets and powders, are important in preventing and dealing with many GI disorders. As digestive issues become more common, the probiotics industry is witnessing rapid growth.
Geriatric patients suffer from most types of GI disorders, including dysphagia, dyspepsia, anorexia, constipation and fecal incontinence. The process of aging affects many GI functions, such as food passage through the digestive system, the secretions of digestive hormones and enzymes, as well as the absorption of nutrients. According to the WHO, the percentage of the world’s population over the age of 60 is expected to double, increasing from 12 percent in 2015 to 22 percent by 2050. These growing elderly population greatly contributes to the expansion of the industry.
So, probiotics play a key role in controlling gut health for children and older adults. With the rising prevalence of GI disorders among various age groups, the demand for probiotic products is steadily growing. This highlights the importance of probiotics in promoting digestive health.
Innovative technologies transforming the probiotic industry
In recent times, the probiotic sector has been exposed to new technologies that are expected to change the industry in the future. For example, Cosmax NBT, a probiotics company based in South Korea, launched its Zeta Probiotics technology in 2021. This technology represents an advanced freeze-drying method designed to repair the cell walls and surface charges of probiotics, thus improving their longevity and effectiveness.
However, Zeta Probiotics deals with an important challenge in its formulation such as preserving live bacteria that remain viable for the entire shelf life of the product. By extending the stability and potency of freeze-dried probiotics, this technology ensures enhanced product standards and strengthens consumer trust in the health benefits of probiotics. These technological advances are contributing to the broad expansion of the probiotic industry, as many companies focus on innovation to meet the growing consumer demand for effective, long-lasting probiotic products. Therefore, promoting competitive improvements in the sector.
Utsunomiya Yakult launched the first wellness center
In November 2023, Utsunomiya Yakult Group Corp., a distributor of the well-known Japanese probiotic beverage Yakult, opened a special service center in the capital of Tochigi Prefecture. This is the first Yakult seller in Japan to feature a wellness complex, which consists of a cafe, beauty salon, and gallery. The company, famous for its “Yakult ladies” who deliver products to customers’ homes, wanted to expand its reach and connect with new customers. The center is designed to engage with people who are already familiar with Yakult.
Collaborative efforts in probiotic health products
In October 2024, IASST, Guwahati, teamed up with Bharat Biotech to develop health products using probiotics from conventional fermented foods of Northeast India. These probiotics have shown potential to treat metabolic diseases, improve gut health, and support healthy aging. The partnership, supported by the Department of Science and Technology, aims to boost the bioeconomy of Northeast India by using its rich biodiversity. Bharat Biotech’s expertise is expected to transform these innovative probiotics into commercial products. As a result, these probiotics are anticipated to offer natural solutions for diseases such as diabetes and obesity, combining traditional knowledge with modern science to improve global health and contribute to India’s biotechnology growth.
To summarize, the probiotics industry is expanding rapidly as more people seek natural ways to improve health, particularly digestion. Probiotics support digestive health, manage GI disorders, and enhance well-being. With innovations in product technology and a rising global population, especially among older adults, this sector is expected to offer significant growth opportunities in health, food, and wellness products.
**𝑨𝒓𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒍𝒆 𝒘𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒓: Harshada Dive
Author’s Bio:
Harshada Dive is a computer engineer who loves experimenting with trending topics and is passionate about presenting contemporary trends creatively to her audience. Her writing skillfully integrates knowledge and creativity, reflecting her dedication to creating engaging and thoughtful content. Outside of her professional pursuits, Harshada enjoys gardening and listening to inspirational podcasts.
