Tag: Freezing probiotics

According to one study on kefir, freezing for as little as two months can cause a 15-50% decrease in its probiotic population, but not all bacteria are lost. This reveals a nuanced reality about how freezing impacts these beneficial microbes.

While many assume all probiotics require refrigeration, advanced manufacturing techniques have resulted in many effective, shelf-stable options. So, what happens if probiotics get cold? The effect on viability depends on the specific product formulation and the temperature involved, from simple chilling to deep freezing.

Live microorganisms, like probiotics, are highly sensitive to their environment, with temperature being a major factor impacting their viability. When it comes to the question, "Can you freeze probiotics?" the answer is more complex than a simple yes or no, depending largely on the product type and manufacturing process.

According to a 2020 review, low temperatures, such as refrigeration, have been reported to be better for the survival of many probiotic strains, while high temperatures significantly decrease viability. The answer to whether **can probiotics be left in the cold** depends heavily on their specific formulation, with different types requiring different storage conditions to remain effective.