ADM, a global leader in natural ingredient solutions, has published a pioneering study on the effects of probiotics and postbiotics on canine health.
The research, featured in the Journal of Animal Science, marks the first time Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CECT 8145 (BPL1™) has been studied in adult dogs. The study explored how daily supplementation of both live probiotics and heat-treated postbiotics of BPL1™ affected the health of dogs.
Sophie Nixon, Ph.D., Head of Clinical Research for Pet & Animal Well-being at ADM, led the research and emphasised the growing trend among pet owners looking for health supplements.
“The popularity of functional ingredients has increased as pet owners seek ways to improve the health and wellness of their pets, yet limited research has been conducted regarding the use of probiotics and postbiotics and their effects on canine health.”
The study involved 36 adult dogs—18 beagles and 18 English pointers—split into three groups. The dogs were fed a standard diet for 60 days before being supplemented with either probiotic BPL1™, postbiotic BPL1™, or a placebo for 90 days. Various health metrics were assessed, including gut microbiome, insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
The results were promising. Improvements in gut health were observed, with changes in the dogs’ microbiome and increases in beneficial fecal short-chain fatty acids. Both live and heat-treated BPL1™ were found to be safe and effective in promoting gut health in healthy adult dogs. Further studies are ongoing to examine the probiotic’s impact on metabolic health.
Mark Lotsch, ADM’s President of Global Health & Wellness, highlighted the broader potential of the findings.
“Groundbreaking science such as this canine trial spurs development of ADM’s functional ingredients across human, pet and animal nutrition. We are thrilled to also see promising results for pet health applications.”
One key benefit of the heat-treated postbiotic BPL1™ is its resilience during manufacturing, especially in pet food production, where extreme heat can reduce the effectiveness of live probiotics. This stability offers manufacturers more flexibility when creating pet products without compromising on health benefits.
ADM’s latest research could pave the way for more effective pet supplements as more owners turn to biotics to address their pets’ digestive health concerns.
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