Ennolys, an expert in fermentation on the biotics market
Probiotics are increasingly gaining attention, whether in media, pharmacy advertisements, or through numerous research studies exploring their benefits. Fermented foods and probiotic-based supplements are particularly popular today for their positive impact on digestive health.
A diversity of biotics for gut flora preservation
The term “biotics” encompasses various natural compounds that play an essential role in preventing imbalances in gut flora and reducing undesirable effects such as digestive disorders, abdominal pain, or food intolerances. Beyond aiding digestive comfort, they enhance nutrient absorption and boost the immune system.
Three key types of biotics include:
– Probiotics: Live microorganisms present in fermented foods that provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts.
– Prebiotics: Non-digestible dietary substances that serve as nutrients for gut microflora, promoting their growth.
– Postbiotics: A lesser-known category referring to inactivated microorganisms or their components (like enzymes, vitamins, and short-chain fatty acids) that also contribute to gut health.
The numerous health benefits of probiotics
Probiotics are omnipresent across various industries: food and dietary supplements, cosmetics (for skin and hair health), and gynecology (to address vaginal microbiota concerns).
Probiotics are renowned for their ability to:
– Support the immune system
– Enhance digestive comfort
– Help prevent the proliferation of harmful microorganisms by encouraging a diverse and balanced gut flora
The effectiveness of any probiotic depends on the specific strain used. Each strain has unique properties and benefits, making it crucial to match the right strain to the intended application, such as addressing intestinal imbalances or digestive discomfort.
Probiotics and promising research
Emerging areas of study highlight additional applications of probiotics, including their potential impact on metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes and obesity. They may help regulate blood sugar levels and support weight management.
Another burgeoning field of research revolves around the **gut-brain axis**, which explores the interaction between gut microbiota and the central nervous system. Certain probiotic strains have shown promise in reducing stress and anxiety, offering potential mental wellness benefits.
Similarly, the gut-skin axis is gaining attention. Research suggests that gut microbiota influences skin health by modulating the skin barrier, skin microbiota, and systemic immunity, which may aid in addressing conditions such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.
The Critical role of fermentation in probiotic production
As demand for probiotics continues to rise, their production relies on advanced technical expertise. Once specific microorganism strains are selected for their intended health benefits (e.g., gut health or microbiota support), the production process hinges on precise fermentation techniques.
Fermentation allows for the cultivation of live and active cells from the target strain. This process must occur in a meticulously controlled environment to ensure the viability, safety, and efficacy of the strains. Mastery in microbiology and fermentation engineering is essential for success.
Ennolys, a biotechnology company, excels in this domain, producing high-quality probiotics that meet rigorous health standards.
Ennatech: A key player in the biotics market
Ennolys, a Business Unit of Lesaffre, leverages over 170 years of expertise in fermentation to play a pivotal role in the biotics market. Based in Soustons, France, on a nearly 5-hectare site, Ennolys specializes in developing ingredients through microbiological processes. With more than three decades of experience in industrial fermentation, the company leads two primary areas of activity:
- Fermentation-based ingredient production
Ennolys produces a wide range of ingredients, including natural flavors, enzymes, liquid sourdough, starters, and probiotics, to meet the diverse needs of the Lesaffre Group.
- Custom fermentation services through Ennatech
The Ennatech branch offers contract services in fermentation and downstream processing (DSP) for a variety of industries, such as cosmetics, nutraceuticals, plant health, animal health, and human health. One of the key services involves producing lactic acid bacteria.
Using state-of-the-art facilities, Ennatech supports clients from laboratory-scale projects to full industrialization. The company boasts fermenters ranging from 2m³ to 50m³, DSP capabilities for various production scales, and industrial lyophilizers. It also collaborates with other Lesaffre Group sites to incorporate complementary technologies, such as spray drying. This comprehensive expertise enables Ennatech to address a broad spectrum of applications, from probiotics to postbiotics, serving as a trusted partner in the world of biotics.
