Probi completed the first production batches of dairy-free Streptococcus salivarius BLIS K12 strains, touted as boosting immune defenses and preventing oral infections.

Streptococcus salivarius BLIS K12 is part of a portfolio of clinically documented bacterial strains for supporting natural immune defense and preventing mouth and throat infections. The BLIS strains also contribute to a healthy set of teeth and gums. 

“The technology transfer of BLIS strains to Probi has gone smoothly, and we have been able to make very rapid progress due to our sizable investments in fermentation technology and upgrades to our analytical capability,” says Steve Preston, head, fermentation, Probi.

The strains are manufactured at Probi’s upgraded fermentation facility in Washington, US. 

Dairy-free products have grown in popularity, with brands such as Barry Callebaut launching Dairy-free compounds, a dairy-free and plant-based solution for the sweet snacking category. The innovation joins the North American Plantcraft range of dairy-free chocolates, nuts, cocoa powders and cacao fruit experience ingredients.

Dairy-free alternatives have seen an increase in NPD with oat-based milk, vegan cheese and plant-based chocolate. The dairy alternatives space has also seen some major acquisitions and investments of late, demonstrating its future growth potential.There has been a steep increase in NPD launches of dairy-free products.

Strains eliminate need for dairy milk
Blis Technologies’ clinically documented strains are used in New Zealand, Australia and Asia, Europe and North America.

“As part of our high throughput screening program for culture media optimization, we have eliminated the need for dairy (milk) products in the formulation. We believe this is very helpful for customers seeking to produce allergen-free probiotic products,” Preston explains. 

Probi entered a strategic partnership with New Zealand-based Blis Technologies in 2021 as part of a long-term strategic collaboration with the signing of a licensing and distribution agreement. The companies continue to collaborate on additional research and development.

Probi will soon offer the strains to customers worldwide.