30 May 2018 --- As knowledge of the gut microbiome increases, probiotics have experienced a huge surge in popularity. Not only can they boost the overall health of the microbiome but specific strains can provide answers to some medical conditions. In this report, NutritionInsight notes the importance of scientific research for probiotic strains, growing market applications and novel delivery forms, as informed by Ganeden, Kerry, Fonterra and Anlit. In part one of the gut health series, functional fiber was the focus.