Effect of Cell Immobilization on Properties of Presumptive Probiotics

Abstract

Nowadays an upsurge of interest in developing novel foods containing probiotic microorganisms is observed. Such functional foods have a great potential in promoting human health. To deliver the health benefits, probiotics need to contain an adequate amount of live bacteria, able to survive the acidic conditions of the upper GI tract and proliferate in the intestine, a requirement that is not always fulfilled. It is well established that cell immobilization enhances the viability of cultures during food processing and storage, and protects the microorganisms at the stomach harsh conditions, resulting in delivery in the gut. This chapter reviews the effect of cell immobilization on the properties of presumptive probiotics with emphasis on tolerance to simulated GI tract conditions, adhesion attributes, and modulation of microbial intestinal flora. Specific research results from both in vitro and in vivo assays are presented and future challenges are highlighted and assessed.