Synbiotics - Clasado Biosciences

Synbiotics

Combining prebiotics and probiotics with scientific integrity

The synbiotic category: A rapidly evolving market opportunity

Synbiotics combine the benefits of prebiotics and probiotics in a single formulation, offering formulators a powerful approach to addressing the increasing consumer demand for comprehensive gut health solutions.

Understanding synbiotics: definition and mechanisms

The term ‘synbiotic’ derives from the Latin prefix ‘syn’, meaning united or combined, with ‘biotic’, referring to biological material – specifically bacteria in this context. In its simplest form, a synbiotic is a combination of prebiotics and probiotics that work together to support gut health in complementary ways.

This dual-action approach represents a significant advancement in gut health science, allowing formulators to create products that both introduce beneficial bacteria and provide the specific nutrients these bacteria need to thrive.

To understand synbiotics fully, it’s essential to recognise how their components function:

Probiotics

Probiotics add live beneficial bacteria to the gut microbiome, introducing specific strains associated with various health benefits

Prebiotics

Prebiotics are substrates that selectively nourish beneficial bacteria already in the gut, helping them multiply and thrive

Synbiotics

Synbiotics combine these approaches, potentially enhancing the survival and activity of probiotic strains while simultaneously supporting the wider beneficial microbial community

Types of synbiotic formulations

Research body ISAPP (International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics) identifies two distinct categories of synbiotics, each with specific formulation considerations:

Synergistic synbiotics

are designed so that the prebiotic component selectively nourishes the co-administered probiotic. This targeted approach can enhance probiotic survival and activity, potentially delivering greater benefits than either component alone.

Complementary synbiotics

feature prebiotic and probiotic components that work independently to deliver health benefits. The prebiotic may support resident microorganisms in the gut typically offering a broader approach to microbiome support.

Both synergistic and complementary synbiotics have distinct advantages, depending on the product’s intended use. For formulators, understanding these distinctions is crucial for developing products that effectively meet specific consumer health needs and expectations.

Formulation considerations

When developing synbiotic products, several factors are particularly important:

Strain selection and compatibility

Selecting probiotic strains that complement the chosen prebiotic is essential. In both types of synbiotics, neither component should compromise the other’s stability.

Stability challenges

Prebiotics are typically stable, but probiotics are sensitive to heat, moisture, and processing. Synbiotic formulations must address this challenge through appropriate processing techniques, protective technologies, and packaging to preserve probiotic stability.

Effective dosage determination

Both prebiotic and probiotic components must be present at clinically effective levels to deliver their benefits. Understanding the correct doses ensures synbiotic products deliver real benefits and remain commercially viable.

Format selection

Synbiotics can be formulated in various formats, including capsules, powders, and functional foods - Each with unique formulation and stability challenges. The chosen format should consider both technical requirements and consumer preferences.

Why partner with Clasado?

With market-leading expertise in prebiotic science, Clasado offers synbiotic formulators access to Bimuno® GOS, a scientifically validated galactooligosaccharide supported by over 125 scientific publications and more than 20 clinical studies. This extensive research portfolio makes it an ideal prebiotic component for synbiotic combinations, providing the scientific credibility that today’s consumers demand.

Beyond our proven ingredient, we offer:

Our team partners with you every step of the way, helping deliver next-generation gut health solutions with confidence.

Learn more

The prebiotic supplement advantage Prebiotic supplements offer formulators unique advantages in meeting the most pressing

Supplements Supplements

Understanding the prebiotic beverage opportunity Today’s beverage consumers are more sophisticated and health-conscious than ever

RTD Beverages RTD Beverages

What’s driving the growth of the functional foods market The global functional foods sector continues

Functional Foods Functional Foods

Regulatory landscape for prebiotics in FSMPs Following a positive opinion from the European Food Safety

FSMPs FSMPs

Ready to explore how our scientific expertise can support your product development?

Contact our team to learn more about the research behind Bimuno GOS and its applications in your formulations.