Giellepi launches paraprobiotic ShielDefence for immune support

16 Jul 2021 --- Giellepi Health Science has created a patented, clinically verified paraprobiotic that enhances adults’ immune system activities without traditional probiotics’ stability concerns.

ShielDefence is composed of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei MCC1849 and vitamins C and D.

“MCC1849 is a heat-killed lactic acid bacteria (also known as paraprobiotic) selected among thousands of bacterial strains for its capacity to induce the production of interleukin-12 (IL-12)”, Antonia Reali, research and development manager at Giellepi, tells NutritionInsight.

“IL-12 is a potent activator of adaptive and innate immunity. It promotes the activation of various immune cells including natural killer cells and macrophages responsible for removing pathogenic bacteria, viruses and infected cells.”

Immunity in the spotlight
Innova Market Insights’ data reveals that probiotics are increasing in food and beverage launches around the world. There is a 13 percent year-over-year growth when comparing 2019 and 2018 launches.

Additionally, products that feature immunity claims are on the rise, with an average growth of 15 percent between 2015 and 2019.Paraprobiotics are inactivated, heat-treated probiotics which benefit the immune system and gut health. 

“We expect that the demand for supplements that provide immune support will remain high in the next two to three years,” Reali says.

“MCC1849 was found effective in preventing common cold symptoms in adults and to improve the responsiveness of influenza vaccination in elderly people,” she continues.

Gummy format potential
Traditional formats such as tablets and capsules continue to lead the way. However, gummies, chewable tablets, gels and ready-to-drink supplements present an ideal format for addressing the rise of the on-the-go lifestyle trend, Reali comments.

Notably, ShielDefence has a soft gummy format.

“Gummies are an innovative, more attractive alternative of delivering vitamins and functional ingredients while still maintaining the effectiveness of traditional pills. Moreover, they are an ideal delivery format for adults due to their convenience, versatility and great sensory experience.”

Reali highlights that the next developments on ShielDefence will be focused to match immune health needs of recreationally active people and children.

Paraprobiotics on the rise
Reali comments on the emerging category of products containing immunobiotic ingredients known as paraprobiotics.

“Paraprobiotics are non-viable microbial cells which, when administered in adequate amounts, can provide health benefits to the host. Interestingly, paraprobiotics share properties of probiotics but work through specific mechanisms to promote immune function that begins in the gut and impacts the entire body.”

In this space, Eyemuse, launched by Kyowa Hakko, is a heat-treated probiotic strain used for optimal eye function. The company’s paraprobiotics are also positioned to support gut and immune health.

Meanwhile, Kyowa Hakko’s parent company, Kirin Holdings, released a paraprobiotic immune activator, Immuse. The ingredient boosts the body’s natural defenses and aids with immune health.

By Nicole Kerr 

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