Lallemand Health Solutions’ documented probiotic strain Bifidobacterium animalis ssp.lactis LAFTI B94 has been recognized by the Canadian Health Authorities for its gut health benefits in children, adolescents, and adults. In particular, for the reduction of constipation and bloating in children and adolescents with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a growing concern in this sub-population group, as supported by a recent randomized clinical study (Baştürk et al., 2016).

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), is an important concern in young populations. In North America, the incidence of IBS-associated abdominal pain is estimated between 8% and 17% in children, going up to 13% to 38% in adolescents, with higher prevalence in girls (Osemene, 2015). The study by Baştürk et al. was conducted in children and adolescents, between 4 and 16 years old, with IBS. It clearly showed that the daily diet supplementation with Bifidobacterium lactis LAFTI B94 significantly improves IBS symptoms in a majority of subjects without reported side-effects. This well documented probiotic strain is part of Lallemand Health Solutions Hearty Kids and Teens range.

The claims approved by the Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD), the regulatory agency for natural health products in Canada, for B. lactis LAFTI B94 in children (above 4 years old) are:

• “Helps to relieve abdominal discomfort, such as bloating and constipation” at a daily dose of 5 billion CFU
• “Helps children and adolescents with bloating and constipation in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)”at a daily dose of 10 billion CFU

The first claim being also approved for adults at the same daily dose.

The strain is also authorized in infants from 2 months old at a daily dose of 5 billion CFU, with specific probiotic claims such “Participates in a healthy microflora balance.”

Finally, in adults, the probiotic is also recognized for its benefits as an adjunct to physician-supervised therapy in patients with Helicobacter pylori infections at higher daily doses.

Solange Henoud, regulatory affairs director for Lallemand Health Solutions, commented: “Such specific claims are the achievement of a great team work. We are confident they will open the doors to new marketing opportunities for this strain in gut health applications, not only in Canada but also in other territories and competitive marketsin support of our customers’ expanding strategy.”