The Taxonomy and History Behind the Name
Many people wonder, "What does BB-12 stand for?" The answer is that it's not an acronym at all, but a trademarked name given to a specific and highly-documented strain of probiotic bacteria. The name was created by the company Chr. Hansen, which initially isolated the strain from a dairy culture in 1983. This is common practice in the probiotic industry, where manufacturers assign alphanumeric codes to specific, proprietary strains to distinguish them from others in the same genus.
The full scientific classification for BB-12 has evolved over time due to advancements in molecular biology. Initially classified as a strain of Bifidobacterium bifidum, it was later reclassified as Bifidobacterium lactis. The most current and accurate designation for the strain is Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12, following recognition that B. lactis is a subspecies of B. animalis. This demonstrates the precise nature of probiotic science, where the specific strain matters for documented benefits.
Where is BB-12 Used?
The BB-12 probiotic strain is incorporated into a wide variety of food products and supplements around the world. Its proven stability and efficacy have made it a popular choice for manufacturers.
- Fermented Milk Products: A primary application since its discovery, BB-12 is used in yogurt and other fermented dairy products.
- Infant Formulas: Due to its documented safety and benefits in infants, it is commonly added to infant formulas.
- Dietary Supplements: It is widely available in powdered and capsule form, both alone and in multi-strain probiotic supplements.
- Other Food Items: It can also be found in fermented oat drinks and other functional foods.
The Science of BB-12: Why It's So Effective
The extensive scientific backing for BB-12 stems from its remarkable survival characteristics and beneficial interactions within the human gut. Unlike many other bacterial strains that perish in the harsh stomach environment, BB-12 is highly resilient.
Comparison of Probiotic Survival: BB-12 vs. Other Strains
| Feature | BB-12 Strain | Other Bifidobacterium Strains | Other Probiotic Strains (Variable) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gastric Acid Tolerance | Excellent; high survival rates at low pH. | Varies widely; many strains show poor survival at low pH. | Varies widely; often less resilient than BB-12. |
| Bile Salt Tolerance | High; contains a gene for bile salt hydrolase. | Varies widely. | Depends on the specific strain and its genetics. |
| Mucus Adhesion | Strong; adheres well to human intestinal mucus. | Varies widely. | Depends on the specific strain and its surface proteins. |
| Documented Benefits | Very extensive; hundreds of publications. | Highly variable; can be very specific or limited. | Highly variable; can be very specific or limited. |
Health Benefits Associated with BB-12
Research on BB-12 has linked its supplementation to several health benefits, particularly related to gastrointestinal and immune functions.
Gastrointestinal Health
- Improved Bowel Function: Clinical studies have shown that BB-12 can increase defecation frequency and soften stools, particularly in individuals with low bowel movement frequency or mild constipation. This effect has been observed in healthy adults and the elderly.
- Reduced Diarrhea: The strain has demonstrated a protective effect against diarrhea, including both acute diarrhea in infants and children and antibiotic-associated diarrhea in adults.
- Support for the Gut Microbiota: BB-12 supplementation can increase levels of beneficial Bifidobacteria in the gut and may help inhibit the growth of potentially pathogenic bacteria.
Immune Function
- Enhanced Immune Response: The strain has been shown to interact with the immune system, including boosting the body's specific antibody response to vaccinations.
- Reduced Respiratory Infections: Some studies indicate that BB-12 supplementation may lead to a reduced incidence and duration of common respiratory tract infections.
Infant Health
- Relief for Colic: Clinical trials suggest that BB-12 can be effective in reducing excessive crying and fussing in infants diagnosed with colic.
- Protective in Early Life: For infants, BB-12 has shown promise in reducing the incidence of acute diarrhea and supporting a healthy microbiota during crucial developmental stages.
The Role of Chr. Hansen
The development and extensive documentation of the BB-12 strain are largely thanks to Chr. Hansen, a global bioscience company now part of the Novonesis Group. For decades, the company has funded and conducted rigorous scientific research to establish the safety and efficacy of its proprietary strains. This scientific backing distinguishes BB-12 from generic or less-documented probiotics available on the market.
Today, the legacy of BB-12 is managed by Novonesis, ensuring continued research and quality control. This commitment to science has established BB-12 as the "world's most documented Bifidobacterium," and a trusted ingredient for applications from infant formula to dietary supplements.
Visit the NIH for more on probiotic research.
Conclusion
While the name BB-12 may seem mysterious, it is simply a brand designation for a scientifically proven probiotic strain, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis. The numbers and letters do not form an acronym but serve as a way to identify this specific and extensively researched strain, originally developed by Chr. Hansen. Its superior gastric survival, strong adhesion to the gut lining, and proven health benefits for digestive and immune function have solidified its reputation as one of the most reliable and trusted probiotics available globally. The story of BB-12 underscores the importance of choosing specific, well-documented strains when selecting a probiotic supplement.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, cure, or treat any health condition. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Glossary of Terms
- CFU (Colony-Forming Units): The number of viable bacterial cells in a probiotic product.
- Probiotic: Live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.
- Strain: A genetic variant or subtype of a microorganism.
- Gut Microbiota: The community of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that live in the digestive tract.
- Taxonomy: The science of classifying organisms.
