Not All Probiotics Are Created Equal: Why Morinaga’s Human-Residential Bifidobacteria (HRB) Stand Out
- Admin
- 7 minutes ago
- 3 min read
When choosing a probiotic, many people focus on the genus and species listed on the label. But what if the origin of the strain matters just as much - if not more?
Emerging research highlights that where a probiotic strain comes from plays a crucial role in how well it works in the human body. This is where Human-Residential Bifidobacteria (HRB) make a meaningful difference.
What Are Human-Residential Bifidobacteria (HRB)?
Bifidobacterium is one of the most important groups of beneficial bacteria in the human gut. In fact, they are among the first microbes to colonize our digestive system from birth, especially in breastfed infants.
These beneficial bacteria play multiple roles in supporting health, including:
Maintaining a balanced gut environment
Supporting immune function
Regulating metabolic activities
One of their key functions is the production of acetic acid, which helps inhibit harmful bacteria and promotes a healthier intestinal ecosystem.
However, not all Bifidobacterium are the same.
They can be broadly classified into two groups:
Human-Residential Bifidobacteria (HRB): Naturally adapted to live in the human gut
Non-HRB: Originating from animals or the environment
This distinction is important because HRB have co-evolved with the human body, making them more compatible and effective in supporting human health.
Why Human-Residential Bifidobacteria Are Better Suited for the Human Gut?
Research from Morinaga Milk Industry shows that HRB possess unique characteristics that enhance their survival, adaptability and functionality in the human gastrointestinal environment.
Naturally Compatible with Human Milk
HRB strains, especially those isolated from infants, can grow efficiently in human milk. In contrast, many non-HRB strains struggle to survive under the same conditions. (1) Species like B. longum and B. breve are commonly found in higher amounts in breastfed infants, highlighting their natural compatibility with the human body from early life. (2)
Able to Utilize Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs)
HMOs are the third most abundant component in breast milk and play a vital role in shaping a healthy gut microbiome. Interestingly, HMOs cannot be digested by infants themselves. Instead, they serve as selective nourishment for beneficial bacteria. HRB strains are uniquely equipped to metabolize HMOs, giving them a competitive advantage in colonizing and supporting gut health. (3)
Higher Tolerance to Lysozyme
Lysozyme is a natural antimicrobial enzyme found in saliva, tears, breast milk and mucus. It forms part of the body’s first line of defence by breaking down bacterial cell walls. For probiotics to be effective, they must be able to withstand this defence mechanism. HRB strains have demonstrated greater resistance to lysozyme, allowing them to survive longer and function more effectively within the human body.
Capable of Producing Folate
Folate is an essential nutrient required for red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis and healthy cell growth. Since the human body cannot produce folate on its own, it must be obtained from diet or beneficial microbes. HRB strains have been shown to produce higher levels of folate, contributing additional nutritional support beyond gut health.
Production of Indole-3-lactic acid (ILA)
ILA is a beneficial metabolite produced by certain gut bacteria, particularly bifidobacteria. ILA is associated with antibacterial effects, immune system modulation and anti-inflammatory properties. HRB strains are known to produce higher levels of ILA, suggesting an important role in supporting immune development, especially in early life. (4)
Morinaga’s Human Residential Bifidobacteria Strains
Building on decades of research, Morinaga has developed a range of clinically studied Human-Residential Bifidobacteria strains, each designed to deliver targeted health benefits across different life stages.
Bifidobacterium longum BB536
BB536 is one of the most extensively researched probiotic strains that has a long history of human use in supporting digestive comfort, immunological and infectious diseases.
Bifidobacterium breve M-16V
M-16V is one of the best studied clinically effective probiotic strain specifically developed for infant health.
Bifidobacterium infantis M-63
Known for its exceptional compatibility with the infant gut, M-63 is highly efficient in colonising and establishing a healthy microbiome.
Bifidobacterium breve B-3
B-3 is a unique HRB strain that goes beyond gut health, offering benefits in metabolic and weight management.
Bifidobacterium breve MCC1274
MCC1274 is an advanced probiotic strain with promising benefits for brain and cognitive health.
The Bottom Line
Not all probiotics function the same way. While many products contain beneficial bacteria, Human-Residential Bifidobacteria (HRB) offer a distinct advantage due to their natural compatibility with the human body.
By choosing probiotics with HRB strains, you are selecting bacteria that are:
• Better adapted to the human gut
• More resilient in the digestive environment
• More effective in supporting overall health
In short, HRB represent the most effective probiotic approach for human health.
Aqurate Ingredients is an international player in supplying functional ingredients and providing innovative solutions to the food & beverage, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical industry. We believe, a satisfied customer is a repeat customer.
Comments