Probl Hig Epidemiol 2014, 95(3): 541-549pl

Probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics - characteristics and functions

Katarzyna Mojka

Katedra Technologii Żywności, Wydział Nauk o Żywności i Rybactwa, Zachodniopomorski Uniwersytet Technologiczny w Szczecinie

Summary
The fermented milk beverages include probiotics and prebiotics to support the development of beneficial microflora. The most common family of bacteria that can be found in food are Lactobacillaceae and Bifidobacteriaceae, proven to be a positive influence in the treatment of many diseases. To stimulate the growth of probiotic bacteria prebiotics are used. Synbiotics are a combination of pro- and prebiotics.

Key words:  probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics