Probiotic Scientific Conference to Discuss Science, Production

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn.The International Probiotic Scientific Conference will focus on current advances in research, production and use of probiotics with a particular focus on its role in maintaining health and preventing disease. The conference, planned to be held in San Antonio this year, will bring together an international mix of biotech companies, food processing companies and academia.

S.K. Dash, Ph.D., will present criteria for selection of probiotics, addressing strain identity using genetic techniques and in vitro testing to establish probiotic qualities like acid and bile resistance, resistance to digestive enzymes, adherence to human epithelial cells, potential anti-microbial activity, effect on immune cytokines and sensitivity to common antibiotics. Different animal and human testing will be included. Dash will also describe stabilization techniques used to ensure viability of probiotics throughout the supply chain along with GMPs (good manufacturing practices) and considerations for condition-specific probiotic blends. He will also address regulations and standards in the United States, European Union and Canada.