Short answer: Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis is one of the more acid-tolerant Bifidobacterium groups studied, but gastric survival still varies with strain, formulation and test conditions. Delivery format can therefore remain relevant even for comparatively robust strains.
For a strain-specific example, read our BB-12® and stomach acid guide.
Is B. lactis resistant to stomach acid?
Comparative in-vitro research found B. animalis subsp. lactis to be the most capable of the tested Bifidobacterium taxa at surviving gastric transit, although all tested strains lost viability when exposed to an acidic pepsin solution at pH 2.0. Other studies have also reported stronger acid and oxidative-stress tolerance for B. animalis subsp. lactis than several other Bifidobacterium species.
Would delayed release still make sense?
Potentially, depending on the formulation goal. A robust strain is not the same thing as a strain being unaffected by gastric conditions. DRcaps® delayed-release HPMC capsules are an option for dry powders when later capsule opening is desired.
FAQ
Is B. lactis the same as B. longum or B. breve?
No. They are different probiotic taxa and should not be assumed to have identical acid tolerance or clinical evidence.
If B. lactis is acid tolerant, is capsule technology irrelevant?
No. Survival is affected by more than species name, including strain, dose, formulation, food matrix, storage and gastrointestinal conditions.
Which empty capsule size fits probiotic powder?
There is no universal mg answer because powders have different bulk densities. Compare sizes in our Capsule Size Guide.
Also read our guide to B. longum, B. breve and stomach acid.
Research references
- Masco L et al. Gastrointestinal transit tolerance of Bifidobacterium strains. PMID: 17638965.
- Determination of survival and stress resistance of probiotic bifidobacteria in bio-yoghurts. PMID: 16478503.
