Abstract

Probiotics are defined as “microbial food supplements” with beneficial effects on the consumers. Several aspects including safety, functional and technological characteristics, have to be taken into consideration in the selection process of probiotic microorganisms. Our Knowledge about probiotics and their interactions with the host has grown ever since Metchnikoff’s theory of longevity and proven mechanism of action on probiotics published elsewhere in medical literature. Certainly, now there is enough clinical evidence to support claimed health attributes to selected strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium spp. The aim of this review article is to summarise selection criteria of probiotics, technological challenges for probiotic formulations, safety assessment and potential applications of probiotics for health care professionals and common man.