Key2Biotics’ Verified Alive pilot study examined 14 probiotic capsule products purchased from Irish pharmacies and health stores. The study assessed viable probiotic count at the time of testing, strain-level identification and clinical evidence relevant to each product’s health positioning.
The pilot study found that 64% of the products tested did not meet the study threshold for their stated CFU label claim at the time of testing. Seventy-nine per cent provided strain-level identification, while relevant clinical evidence was identified for 50% of the products.
This was a small pilot study and provides a snapshot of the products tested rather than the entire probiotic supplement market. Its purpose is to support greater visibility, stronger product quality and increased trust in probiotic supplements.
