Quality criteria for medically relevant pro- and synbiotics
In line with the guidelines of medically relevant pro- and synbiotics from the WHO, WGO, FDA, as well as the Austrian and German Societies for Probiotic Medicine (DePROM and OePROM)
1. Safety
All bacterial strains used must have GRAS status, QPS status or comparable safety standards, which indicates the highest safety standard for human ingestion and the absence of side effects even with long-term use.
2. Number of bacteria
At least 109 CFU/g (= 1 billion bacteria per gram of powder). This means that a relevant number of viable bacteria can be ingested.
3. Activity
Probiotic bacteria are most effective during the first 24 hours after they have been rehydrated, as this is when they become active again. In yoghurt production this takes place in the dairy, where yoghurt is made by producing lactic acid from milk. In powder form this activation process occurs in our bodies, where the bacteria can actively get to work.
4. Reproductive rate
Proven reproduction of probiotic bacteria even after finishing the course of an OMNi-BiOTiC® product. Evidence of this has only been obtained for very few products until now, as only very high reproduction figures can be recorded. Evidence of this reproduction rate in OMNi-BiOTiC® PANDA, OMNi-BiOTiC® 10 AAD and OMNi-BiOTiC® SR-9 has been recorded and published in scientific journals.
5. Resistance to stomach and bile acid
The bacteria’s resistance to strong acids is an essential factor. The revitalisation of the freeze-dried bacteria should ideally take place outside the body in a neutral liquid, such as in a glass of water. There the bacteria absorb some food and gain strength before embarking on a journey through the stomach acid and through the intestines with bile acid and pancreatic juice.
6. Stability at room temperature
The number of bacteria present upon the expiry date is given, not the number of bacteria at the time of packaging. This is because many bacteria may already die after a few days if the environment does not meet the ideal conditions for survival. Upon request, a quality analysis of every OMNi-BiOTiC® product batch can be provided including evidence of stability at room temperature for 24 months.
7. Milieu optimisation
The ideal pH value in the small intestine is between 4.0 - 5.0. This environment is optimal for the reproduction of beneficial bacterial, however, not ideal for pathogens.
8. Multi-species formula of symbiotic bacterial strains
The combination of multiple bacterial strains enables an improved synthesis between the bacteria and our cells. The multiplication potential of the individual strains is also increased, demonstrating that a team with a range of skills is better than a lone fighter.
9. Synergy of bacterial strains
Not all strains of bacteria are able to tolerate each other – on the contrary, they can become competitors (for example, for food). Therefore, the efficiency of combined bacterial strains needs to be proven by a so-called cross streak method, and/or there should be studies available on their effectiveness.
10. Free from sugar, gluten, and animal protein
To avoid promoting existing intolerances.
11. Matrix
The bacterial reproductive rate and activity can be increased by adding enzymes, fibre, and minerals to the product’s composition. The mucus production of the intestinal lining is increased as well as the adhesion of the bacteria which has been ingested.
12. Studies on effectiveness
Scientific studies should prove the effectiveness of probiotics.
