July 19, 2004

By: Luke Krause
Website: http://www.1st-in-vitamins.com

Rhodia Food will unveil a new patented FloraFIT RT bacterial stabilization system

Rhodia Food will unveil a new patented FloraFIT RT bacterial stabilization system under an exclusive license from the University of Wisconsin-Madison during the next Vitafoods show. The technique enables room temperature storage of freeze-dried probiotics including Lactobacillus acidophilus, Rhodia’s top-selling product in its FloraFIT probiotic line.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, offer health benefits including warding off intestinal infections, supporting a healthy immune system and aiding digestion. Although demand for probiotics is growing among health-conscious consumers, previous refrigeration requirements have limited their use.

The new FloraFIT RT stabilization system enables to offer the benefits of probiotics in powder, capsules and tablets without refrigeration for up to 24 months, said Scott Bush, Rhodia Food’s director of business development. Increasing the shelf-life of probiotics was a major objective for us. People don’t often think to look in the refrigerator case for supplements. Now, probiotic supplements can be on the shelves where consumers naturally look for them.

The UW-devised technique employs a modification of technology originally developed to stabilize enzymes. Under the proper conditions, this technique leads to a complexation phenomena in and around the bacterial cell which delivers enhanced stability, thus creating the first practical commercial application of room temperature Lactobacillus acidophilus.

Research is currently underway to extend the shelf life of higher moisture-content products such as nutrition bars by combining the FloraFIT RT stabilization system with coating technology, said Greg Leyer, Ph.D., probiotic R&D manager for Rhodia Food. FloraFit RT is the foundation from which other applications can be achieved.

About The Author:

Luke Krause is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-vitamins.com.  Recommending the best vitamins, minerals, herbs and weight loss products for optimum health.