Bacillus coagulans for pet health

Maintaining the intestinal health of dogs and cats is becoming increasingly important as pet owners pay more attention to the health of their pets. The utilization of probiotics is an effective strategy to enhance the health of dogs and cats. The administration of probiotics can improve the balance of the intestinal microbiota, suppress inflammation, enhance immune function, and alleviate intestinal disorders in dogs and cats. The administration of probiotics to dogs has shown positive effects on the gut health and can alleviate some intestinal diseases and disorders in dogs, although the underlying mechanisms are largely unresolved.
The Gastro Intestinal Tract microbiota contributes to maintaining intestinal homeostasis via multifaceted mechanisms, such as defence against intestinal pathogens, facilitation of nutrient digestion and absorption, improvement in barrier function, stimulation of intestinal development, and modulation of the immune system. Bacterial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), secondary bile acids, and tryptophan metabolites, are key mediators of host−microbiota interactions and play important roles in influencing host health. SCFAs are products of bacterial fermentation of dietary fibres, mainly including acetate, propionate, and butyrate, which contribute to intestinal and host health by serving as energy substrates for colonic epithelial cells, maintenance of epithelial barrier integrity, regulation of energy metabolism, and anti-inflammatory effects
The utilization of probiotics in dogs and cats has been shown to improve the gut microbiota balance, modulate inflammation, enhance immune function, and protect against infections caused by enteropathogens. Probiotics also exert immunomodulatory activities in dogs. Feeding of Bacillus coagulans elevated faecal IgA and plasma IgG levels in dogs.
Moreover, studies have suggested improved faecal quality and reduced nitrogen fermentation through probiotic treatments in dogs
Feeding of probiotics decreased the faecal pH and concentrations of total biogenic amines and ammonia. Dietary supplementation with Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis improved the faecal score, reduced nitrogen fermentation products in faeces, and reduced faecal odor in dogs. Dietary supplementation with Weissella cibaria JW15 decreased fecal ammonia emission in dogs.

Probiotics play a crucial role in promoting digestive health in dogs. Following are the benefits of probiotics feeding to dogs.

  • It will improve gut bacteria balance: Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria, crowds out pathogens, and maintains a healthy gut microbiome.
  • Probiotics will enhance nutrient absorption: Probiotics increase nutrient uptake, reducing waste and minimizing faecal volume.
  • It will reduce diarrhoea and loose stool: Probiotics regulate water absorption, improving stool consistency.
  • It will increase immune system function: Probiotics stimulate immune cells, boosting defence against infections.
  • It will reduce inflammation: Probiotics produce anti-inflammatory compounds, soothing gut irritation.
  • It will improve digestive enzyme production: Probiotics enhance enzyme secretion, facilitating nutrient breakdown.

Key Probiotic Strains for Dogs

  1. Bacillus coagulans
  2. Lactobacillus acidophilus
  3. Bifidobacterium bifidum
  4. Streptococcus thermophilus
  5. Enterococcus faecium
Following Health Conditions can be improved by Probiotics feeding to Dogs
  1. Diarrhea
  2. Constipation
  3. Gastrointestinal upset
  4. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  5. Food sensitivities
  6. Allergies

The Role of Bacillus Coagulans

Bacillus coagulans is used as feed additive in pet food, including dog food, to support gut health.
Following are the beneficial effects of Bacillus coagulans feeding:

  • Improved faecal consistency: Bacillus coagulans helps regulate water absorption, reducing diarrhea or loose stool.
  • Reduced faecal odor: By promoting beneficial gut bacteria, Bacillus coagulans minimizes the production of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) responsible for unpleasant odours.
  • Increased faecal solidity: Bacillus coagulans enhances nutrient absorption, leading to more solid, well-formed stools.
  • Enhanced nutrient utilization: By improving gut health, Bacillus coagulans optimizes nutrient absorption, reducing waste and minimizing fecal volume.

Optimal dosage:

The ideal dosage of Bacillus coagulans for dogs varies depending on factors like age, size, and health status. Typical dosages range from 1-10 billion CFU (Colony-Forming Units) per kilogram of body weight per day.

Advantages of adding Bacillus coagulans as a probiotic strain in various formats compared to other probiotic strains

  • Stability: Bacillus coagulans is known for its exceptional stability under various conditions, including heat and acidity. This makes it ideal for inclusion in a wide range of products, such as dry kibble, canned foods, dog treats, biscuits and many other formats without losing efficacy.
  • Shelf Life: Its spore-forming nature allows Bacillus coagulans to remain viable for longer periods, enhancing the shelf life of pet food products compared to many other probiotics that may have shorter shelf lives.
  • Ease of Formulation: Bacillus coagulans can be easily incorporated into different formats, including powders, pellets, and liquid forms, providing flexibility for manufacturers when developing pet food and supplements.
  • Rapid Colonization: This strain can quickly colonize the gut, offering faster benefits in digestive health and overall well-being compared to some other probiotics that may take longer to establish.
  • Versatile Health Benefits: Bacillus coagulans not only supports digestive health but also offers immune system support and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a multifunctional choice for pet formulations.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Bacillus coagulans offers a cost-effective solution for manufacturers due to its robustness and longevity. This strain requires fewer resources for storage and handling compared to more sensitive probiotic strains, which can be challenging to maintain. Additionally, the overages needed to meet target label claims for Bacillus coagulans are typically lower, further enhancing its economic appeal. By reducing both storage costs and the quantity needed to achieve effective dosing, manufacturers can optimize their production processes while delivering high-quality probiotic products.
  • Palletability: Bacillus coagulans probiotics has no impact on the taste and flavor of the final product format making it ideal for the inclusion in various pet foods
  • Proven Efficacy: Extensive research and clinical studies have demonstrated the benefits of Bacillus coagulans in improving gut health and reducing gastrointestinal issues in pets, giving manufacturers confidence in its effectiveness.

By choosing Bacillus coagulans over other probiotic strains, manufacturers can create more resilient and effective pet food formulations that meet the health needs of pets while ensuring product longevity and consumer satisfaction.

About Sanzyme Biologics

Sanzyme Biologics is a pioneer in the field of probiotics, boasting over 50 years of expertise in probiotic manufacturing. The company specializes in producing high-quality probiotic strains, supported by extensive research and clinical studies that promote these strains for human, animal, and companion animal health. As a leading manufacturer, Sanzyme Biologics supplies its probiotic strains to over 40 countries, making a significant impact on the global probiotics market. Sanzyme Biologics offers clinically studied Bacillus coagulans for dogs and cats, promoting digestive health, and clinically studied Bacillus clausii for oral and immune health. With a commitment to quality and research-driven solutions, Sanzyme Biologics continues to set the standard in the industry.

Reference Studies:

  • A study published in the Journal of Animal Science found that Bacillus coagulans supplementation reduced faecal moisture content and improved stool quality in dogs.
  • Research in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine showed that Bacillus coagulans improved gut health and reduced diarrhoea in dogs with gastrointestinal issues.
  • American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) recommends probiotics for gastrointestinal health.
  • Journal of Animal Science study: Probiotics reduce diarrhea in puppies.
  • Veterinary Microbiology study: Probiotics enhance gut health in dogs with IBD.
Probiotics for Pets

Probiotics for Pets

In recent years, probiotics have become increasingly popular for pets, as they can provide similar benefits for pets as they do for humans.  As pet owners, everyone wants to ensure that their furry friends are healthy and happy. One way to achieve this is by incorporating probiotics into their diet. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can provide health benefits to pets, including dogs and cats

Probiotics have been widely acknowledged for their ability to enhance the population of beneficial gut bacteria, which play a crucial role in food digestion and overall well-being. However, it is important to note that not all the probiotics are the same as they vary in stability and efficacy.  An ideal probiotic strain needs to be compatible with pet food formulations, process condition, distribution channel and scientifically studied for its safety and efficacy.

Is it necessary to give probiotics to dogs?

Probiotics can help regulate the gut microbiota and maintain digestive health in dogs. Typically, a healthy dog can naturally maintain a balanced microbial population in the gut. However, when a dog experiences stress, illness, or malnutrition, the microbial balance can be disrupted. Probiotic supplements can be beneficial for dogs that have an imbalanced gut microbiota and have shown positive results.

What are the benefits of probiotics for pets?

Probiotics can have several benefits for pets, including:

Improved digestion: Probiotics can help pets digest their food more efficiently and absorb nutrients optimally.

Strengthened immune system: Probiotics can enhance the immune system by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and reducing harmful bacteria in the gut.

Reduced inflammation: Probiotics can reduce inflammation in the gut, which can help alleviate symptoms of digestive issues and allergies.

Better overall health: Probiotics can help improve pets’ overall health by supporting their digestive and immune systems.

How can probiotics be given to pets ?

There are several ways to give probiotics to your pet, including:

Probiotic supplements: Probiotic supplements are available in different forms, such as capsules, powders, and chews. You can mix the supplement with your pet’s food or give it to them directly.

Probiotic-enriched pet food: Some pet foods are enriched with probiotics, so you can feed your pet a balanced diet while also promoting a healthy gut.

Probiotics can be a valuable addition to your pet’s diet, especially if they have digestive issues or have been on antibiotics.  At Sanzyme Biologics, we are committed to providing the Probiotic strain which supports the health and well-being of pets. Our team of experts has years of experience in probiotic strains and formulations.

Are all probiotics the same?

Are all probiotics the same?

Gut microbiome science has exponentially increased over the last two decades, as has the general population’s interest in harnessing this knowledge for better health. When it comes to science-backed tools for improving our gut microbiome, according to experts, diet diversity, prebiotics and probiotics are all worth considering.

For most of history, probiotics labored away in obscurity, however, with the rise of interest in health over the past decade, probiotics have become the rising superstars of nutritional product launches in the 21st century.

The global probiotics market is projected to grow to $69 billion at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 7.0 percent through 2023. While probiotics continue as a top trend, misconceptions and confusion around the category and the benefits of these bacteria linger. And with the rise of even more products incorporating probiotics, it’s more important than ever for consumers to understand their benefits.

Probiotics can provide a wide number of health benefits, like aiding in digestion, strengthening the immune system, and maintaining an ideal ratio of good to bad bacteria.

The opportunity for product developers lies in integrating stable, efficacious probiotic strains into products which consumers enjoy every day. With the multitude of probiotic strains available, manufacturers should choose science-backed ingredients that are well-positioned and can be efficiently formulated.

So, are all probiotics the same? How to understand which probiotic strains will confer the maximum benefits? Which one will provide maximum opportunity for a well-formulated nutritional product?

There are several factors that can help you determine which strain to choose for your product.

1. Types of probiotics available: Vegetative / Spore forming bacteria
Lactobacillus is most common vegetative bacteria. Their cells are not particularly resistant to high heat or desiccation, and tend to be sensitive to the extremes of acid and alkaline conditions, as found in the stomach and small bowel. Studies have shown that most are quickly killed off in the harsh, acidic environment of the stomach and upper digestive tract. Because these bacteria are fragile, they require refrigeration to remain viable. Strains of lactobacillus are supplied in their living, vegetative states. That is, they are living organisms that require very specific environments to remain viable. Often found in fermented dairy products, like yogurt, these typically cannot be used in products that are shelf-stable, frozen, heated or subjected to extreme manufacturing processes.

Bacillus are hardy, spore-forming bacteria that act as vegetative bacteria when conditions are optimal for their growth but can also form dormant spores when conditions are detrimental to their viability. Think of this spore like a plant seed—it is dormant and won’t grow until there is the right temperature, moisture and food source. Research on specific bacillus strains has shown they can withstand both heat and acidic conditions, and these spores are much more resistant to the extremes of pH, heat, cold and pressure than vegetative cells. This makes them a much better fit for fortification in everyday foods and beverages, including products that may be hot, cold or frozen, shelf-stable or subject to extreme manufacturing processes.

Spore-forming probiotics, particularly Bacillus coagulans SNZ 1969, can survive in most applications without the need for refrigeration by staying dormant until they reach the digestive tract. Bacillus coagulans SNZ 1969 shielded by natural capsules called spore. It can sustain hostile gastric and bile acids in human gut and remains stable in highly acidic (pH 2) environment. It is also resistant to high temperature i.e. up to 85°C for 30 min. From production to consumption, it does not show decrement in viability of cell.

2. Get to Know the Strain
Many probiotics contain mixtures of two or more individual strains of bacteria or yeasts. Scientists have found supplementation with different probiotic strains to be linked to different types of benefits, such as digestive and immune health. But you can’t take the positive findings of one study that looks at a particular strain and its impact on health and use it to substantiate the health benefits of another strain. Probiotic strains each possess their own distinct characteristics. These properties may influence safety, efficacy, benefits and the strain’s suitability for certain applications.

3. Formulation viability
When considering products with the health benefits of probiotics, finding a strain that not only provides clinically supported efficacy but is easy to formulate can be difficult. Often, developers have to deal with the technical challenges that are inherent to the more common probiotic strains such as stability, effects of pH, amount of the remaining beneficial bacteria (CFU/g), shelf life etc. Manufacturers that want to promote the benefits of probiotics in their foods or beverages must fortify those products with high-quality, survivable, science-backed probiotic strains.

Does Bacillus coagulans SNZ 1969 meet the current demands of manufacturers?

SNZ1969 is one of the oldest and most widely used strains of B. coagulans worldwide. It is a rod-shaped, slightly acidophilic, gram-positive, catalase-positive, spore forming, thermotolerant, aerobic to microaerophilic, highly resilient probiotic bacteria.

It was first isolated from green malt in 1949 by a Japanese physician, Dr. O. Nakayama (Nakayama 1950). The strain was tested for its potential effects against diarrhea and constipation in adult as well as infants during the 1960s (Mashita 1964; Nakayama 1966).

In 1972, at the request of Sankyo Corporation, the Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare approved the use of bacillus coagulans (designated as strain SANK 70258) as a therapeutic probiotic. Subsequently, in 1973, Sankyo Corporation (currently known as Daiichi Sankyo Co. Ltd) offered formulation and fermentation technology to Sanzyme (earlier known as Uni-Sankyo Ltd). Since then SNZ1969 has been marketed in India under the brand name “SPORLAC” and has been used as a therapeutic probiotic for over 45 years.

SNZ1969™ strain has been deposited with the Microbial Type Culture Collection (MTCC) -assigned number MTCC 5724 and with Belgian Coordinated Collections of Microorganism (BCCM™ILGM) with the assigned number LMG S -27484.

Based upon these genomic and toxicological assessments and its long history of use, SNZ 1969 is considered safe for chronic human consumption and has received United States FDA Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status including Infant GRAS. SNZ1969 is of Non-GMO origin and is produced in a GMP, FAMIQS and NSF certified facility.

SNZ1969 is gifted with a natural encapsulation which makes it possible to withstand harsh conditions making it an ideal probiotic option for shelf stable processed foods. Whereas the conventional vegetative probiotic organisms such as lactobacillus and bifidobacterium often require refrigeration hence restricting their use mostly to refrigerated foods such as yoghurts.

SNZ 1969 is supported by twenty plus scientific publications covering gut health, Immunity against GI track pathogens, inhibition of food borne pathogens, inhibition of bacteria causing dental carries & gingivitis and bacterial vaginosis.

In conclusion, Sanzyme Biologics’ Bacillus Coagulans SNZ 1969 can be an ideal choice for nutritional ingredient and diet supplement manufacturers in this rapidly evolving health market.

 

References:
1. MarketsandMarkets, Global Probiotic Market Forecast to 2023, Dec 2018.
2. GlobalData – Ingredient Insights: Digestive Health, August 2018.
3. Kerry Global Consumer Survey – Digestive & Immune Health, 2019.
4. NIE Functional Food, Jan 2020