Kerry’s LC40 probiotic strain demonstrates protective function in C-section infants

30 Nov 2022 --- New research shows that Kerry’s LC40 probiotic strain has reduced gastrointestinal (GI) infections in C-section infants by up to 73%. This development signals opportunities to restore the natural microbiota of infants born by C-section and the capacity to restore their immune system development.

Breastfeeding can reduce the risk of disruption of the microbiota colonization process, but where it is not possible, an alternative strategy is to use formula that includes bacteria naturally present in human milk.

“The current study looked only at infants born by C-section and showed that the level of protection in this specific population was even higher, with a significant reduction (73%) in the incidence of diarrhea,” Juame Nuñez, product manager, vegetative probiotics at Kerry tells NutritionInsight.

“C-section has been linked to microbiota dysbiosis and changes in immune response maturation, which could be responsible for the higher risk of infections in these infants. These results demonstrate the powerful effect of probiotic intervention with LC40 to better protect this more susceptible population.” 

Because stability is often challenging with probiotics, Kerry is investing in new technology to make LC40 even more stable in formulas.

Isolated strain with magnified capabilityKerry is investing in new technology to make LC40 even more stable in formulas.
Probiotic strain LC40 (Limosilactobacillus fermentum CECT 5716), previously named Lactobacillus fermentum CECT 5716 (2), is a probiotic strain isolated from human breast milk. It is part of the Hereditum range offered by Biosearch Life, a Kerry company.

Three randomized controlled trials have been conducted on infants. “LC40 was included in the formula, with a control group receiving the same formula without it. The trials consistently showed a reduction in the incidence of diarrhea in infants receiving the formula containing LC40,” Nuñez continues.

A previous meta-analysis of data from these studies showed a significant reduction in the incidence of diarrhea (by 48% overall). 

The latest clinical trials demonstrated the safety of the probiotic strain as well as its usefulness for preventing community-acquired infections, such as gastrointestinal and respiratory infections. 

Latest results promising
In three previous randomized clinical trials, LC40 was found effective for preventing infections when administered as an ingredient in the formula. In the new study, researchers in Spain analyzed their results, focusing specifically on the 173 infants born by C-section.

The detailed results are documented in “Beneficial Effects of Limosilactobacillus fermentum CECT 5716 Administration to Infants Delivered by Cesarean Section,” published in the National Library of Medicine, National Center for Biotechnology Information.

In the subgroup, the incidence of gastrointestinal infections was 73% lower among those receiving LC40 than a control formula. This was higher than the reduction among the total sample (46%). Incidence of respiratory infections was also reduced.

 “Infectious diseases are the most common type of illness in infants, and there’s evidence that they’re more common following C-section deliveries. Clinical studies have already shown that including LC40 in formula can significantly reduce the risk of infection,” says Ruth Blanco, head of clinical research at Biosearch Life, a Kerry company. 

This latest finding on this strain demonstrates a huge potential for formulas that help reduce infection in infants delivered by C-section – a group that can be at higher risk for dysbiosis and infection.Using infant formula that includes bacteria naturally present in human milk can strengthen the immune system of infants born by C-section.

The study advises further research to clarify the role of probiotics in balancing the effects of a C-section on immune system maturation.

Business side of bacterial strains
In other industry news, Lallemand Health Solutions’ two bacterial strains, L. helveticus Rosell-52 and B. bifidum Rosell-71, may support the development of beneficial gut microflora in infants and Health Canada has determined that they are safe to use in infant formula. Additionally, Nestlé has unveiled new findings on infant formula blends, emphasizing the efficacy of myelination levels.

Kaneka Probiotics’ KABP Formulation reduces the severity of functional gastrointestinal disorder symptoms such as colic and constipation in infants.

Jacquemaire launched its Baby Probiotic after revealing it has upgraded the product’s formula, including its raw materials and packaging. The prebiotics-fortified solution was formulated to enhance immunity, reduce allergic symptoms and promote the growth and reproduction of probiotics in the intestinal tract.

By Inga de Jong

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