Guidelines for Use of Probiotics

The original notion of probiotics has metamorphosed from being traditionally employed microbes to preserve and alter the nutritive properties of milk, fruits, vegetable, and cereals to the versatile microorganisms in industrial, biomedical, and veterinary health applications. At present, non-traditional, non-lactic acid bacteria and yeasts are also classified as probiotics with improved nutritive and health benefits. However, probiotic effects are species- and strain-specific; therefore, their use should be directed in accordance with guidelines, position papers, and evidence-based recommendations. Hence, probiotics should be administered as per specific guidelines to vulnerable populations.