Spore-forming vs Vegetative Strains

The vast majority of probiotics on the market are vegetative. Understanding the distinction is critical for evaluating survivability claims.

Vegetative Strains (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium)

• State: Active, metabolizing, fragile.
• Survivability: Extremely poor in stomach acid (pH 2.0). Require enteric coating, alginate matrices, or consumption with heavy buffering meals.
• Storage: Highly susceptible to heat and moisture. Often require refrigeration.

Spore-forming Strains (Bacillus)

• State: Dormant endospores.
• Survivability: Near 100% survival through gastric transit. They germinate into active vegetative cells only upon reaching the favorable conditions of the intestines.
• Storage: Completely shelf-stable for years.