Probi has announced its flagship probiotic strain, LP299V, has hit a significant scientific and commercial milestone with the first-ever clinical study in Japanese adults.
The brand, which is owned by German chemical company Symrise, called Japan one of the "world's most advanced functional food markets" and said the research would set a new standard for validated probiotic solutions in the country.
The study, led by Yamakawa et al., demonstrated that daily consumption of LP299V significantly improved , abowel habits in healthy adults with a tendency toward loose stools.
After eight weeks, participants in the LP299V group showed a significantly lower bowel movement frequency than those in the placebo group.
The new study extends the proven efficacy of LP299V to a Japanese population, showing it can reduce bowel movement frequency and promote a more balanced gut environment.
These findings reinforce LP299V's status as a highly effective and versatile probiotic for product development and also showcase its ability to survive gastric transit, adhere to the intestinal mucosa and temporarily colonise the gut.
LP299V has previously been shown to influence the gut microbiota by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids — particularly butyrate.
This is significant because butyrate plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the intestinal barrier, regulating inflammation and supporting normal bowel function.
This research milestone is a result of Probi’s strategic partnership with Nomura Dairy Products, a pioneer in Japan’s fermented food sector.
Together, the two companies have combined scientific excellence with market insights to bring LP299V to Japanese consumers in a fermented carrot juice format (tailored to local preferences) under the My Flora brand.
The new clinical evidence moves this collaboration from product innovation to clinically substantiated market leadership, providing partners and customers with powerful, population-specific evidence in a highly discerning, science-driven market.
With increasing regulatory scrutiny and consumer demand for transparency, local clinical validation is becoming essential.
Probi stated that its continuing investment in region-specific research enables partners to provide targeted, evidence-based solutions that enhance credibility and commercial impact.
"By combining Probi's world-class science with Nomura's strong local market expertise, we have delivered a clinically validated solution that strongly resonates with Japanese consumers," said Karen Ong, Head of APAC at Probi.
This study marks a significant milestone, reinforcing LP299V’s position as a leading global probiotic strain while demonstrating proven efficacy in the Japanese population.
"It also highlights how targeted clinical validation can accelerate commercial growth and meet rising consumer demand for credible, science-backed digestive health solutions."