Tag: Spore forming bacteria

According to the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP), a probiotic is defined as a live microorganism that, when administered in adequate amounts, confers a health benefit on the host. This definition clearly positions Bacillus Clausii as a probiotic, not a prebiotic, due to its properties as a beneficial live bacterium.

Recent research indicates that properly formulated gummy probiotics can successfully deliver viable bacteria to the intestines, where they can modulate gut microbiota and provide digestive benefits. But the common question remains: can probiotics live in gummies and maintain their potency through manufacturing and shelf life?

According to the Food Standards Agency, bacterial spores like those from *Clostridium botulinum* can survive in improperly preserved foods and produce dangerous toxins. In food safety, a spore is a protective, dormant shell formed by certain bacteria to endure harsh conditions such as heat, dryness, and extreme temperatures, making them a significant threat to processed foods.

Recent advancements have enabled the survival of probiotics in gummy form. The viability of probiotics in gummies is now a reality due to cutting-edge technologies.

According to research, most live probiotics are sensitive to temperatures above 115°F (46°C) and the acidity of coffee can also pose a challenge. This means that while some specialized strains may withstand certain conditions, adding standard live probiotics directly to hot coffee will likely kill a significant number of the beneficial bacteria, compromising their intended effect.

Bacillus coagulans is a thermotolerant, spore-forming probiotic bacterium often utilized for industrial fermentation due to its ability to survive harsh processing environments. During this process, it converts sugars into lactic acid, a key metabolite with numerous applications. This unique characteristic makes it a valuable organism in the production of stable probiotic products that deliver consistent health benefits.

Multiple studies have isolated probiotic Bacillus clausii strains from the feces of healthy human adults, demonstrating its ability to survive passage through the harsh gastrointestinal tract. This spore-forming bacterium is found in several natural environments, including soil, marine environments, and water, but it is most widely known for its use in commercial probiotic products.

Foodborne outbreaks can be caused by spore-forming bacteria, which are widespread in nature. It is in these foods, particularly those with low oxygen, that the spoilage organism Clostridium sporogenes can be found, thriving when preservation techniques are insufficient.

Food safety experts agree that cooking food to the correct internal temperature is the single most effective way to kill dangerous pathogens. This practice is crucial for understanding whether bacteria can survive baking and how to prevent foodborne illness.