Probiotics are microorganisms that, when consumed, are believed to provide health benefits, typically by enhancing or restoring the gut microbiota. Probiotics are a microbiome component, which is the collection of microorganisms that inhabit the skin, the digestive tract, and elsewhere in the human body. In general, probiotics are recognized as safe for human consumption, but rarely, they may cause bacteria-host interactions and unwanted side effects.
The benefits of probiotic microorganisms are unexplored. Thus, research on the potential benefits of probiotic bacteria has accelerated. For instance, in May 2023, researchers at the Institute of Life Sciences (ILS) Bhubaneswar, a biotechnology research center, discovered a new probiotic bacterium that can benefit in the prevention and management of multiple health-related issues, such as diarrhea, obesity, and numerous immunological disorders. The bacterium is referred to as Ligilactobacillus salivarious F14.
The discovery was made among the indigenous tribes residing in the region of Odisha. It is the result of a research initiative on tribal health and nutrition begun by the institute with the assistance of the Centre's Department of Biotechnology three years ago. Therefore, positive research findings can aid in developing new food and cosmetic products. This is anticipated to stimulate market expansion.
Market leaders are attempting to develop novel probiotic strains and introduce new products for human health. For instance, in April 2023, Probiotical launched two Skinbac probiotic blends: Skinbac Care (Skinbac BR03, LS03, and LRE02) and Skinbac Beauty (Skinbac BR03, LS03, and LRE02) (Skinbac LP01 and BS05). The mixtures are heated in a manner that preserves the cells of the probiotic strains without causing lysis. The manufacturer claims that this preserves and extends the shelf life of probiotic formulations. It also enables their quantification by flow cytometry, which provides a more precise count of bacterial cells than traditional gram measurements. Such product launches create opportunities for market growth.
Asia-Pacific is the most significant global probiotics food and cosmetics market shareholder and is expected to expand substantially during the forecast period. The expanding market in Asia-Pacific will be fueled by the region's growing population, heightened awareness, and aspiration to improve living conditions. According to the EY Future Consumer Index (November 2021) poll, 40% of Indian respondents are willing to spend more for products that improve health and wellness, compared to the global average of 28%. This should bode well for the regional market's expansion.
Additionally, manufacturers have recognized the unrealized potential of probiotic supplements that extend beyond digestive health and immunity. As a result, they are focusing on addressing specific health concerns among individuals. In 2021, the Lactobacillus rhamnosus MP108 probiotic strain developed by Taiwan's Bioflag Biotech was introduced in China as an infant product. These developments are propelling the regional market's expansion.
The key players in the global probiotics food and cosmetics market are Aurelia Skincare Ltd., Nestle, DuPont, ADM, Esse Skicare, Yakult Honsha, L’oreal S.A., The Body Deli, The Estée Lauder Companies Inc., BioGaia, Tula Life Inc., and others.