A research team led by Dr Iza Radecka from the University of Wolverhampton has developed a novel biopolymer for the benefit of the probiotics industry.
A product that safely delivers a consistent number of friendly bacteria via the stomach to the intestine is the major requirement of the industry. Research shows that the technology can also be used to deliver specific drugs and boost calcium absorption.
Probiotic foods have beneficial bacteria, which might assist in fighting respiratory and gastro-intestinal disorders, reinforcing immunity and enhancing gut health. Probiotic food manufacturers face a challenge to bring sufficient amount of bacteria into the intestines; most of them die due to intense acidic conditions of the stomach. The new non-toxic and edible biopolymer that is fully biodegradable helps to address this challenge. It shields the probiotic bacteria inside the stomach and helps to deliver them into the intestines in a safer way through food products.
Scientists have shown that live beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus strains coated with the new polymer survived in a simulated gastric acid solution for nearly four hours, whereas bacteria without the polymer coating survived just for two hours.
In addition, the biopolymer has capability for clinical uses exterior to the probiotics industry. By altering the polymer, it can be utilized to enhance calcium absorption inside the intestine that might aid in maintaining a healthy bone structure. The material can also be used to administer unstable drugs that split up in the gastro-intestinal tract.
Source: http://www.sgm.ac.uk/