Kaneka Probiotics and AB-Biotics have secured authorization from Health Canada’s Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD) to market and sell the L. sakei proBio65 probiotic for use by children and adolescents.
 
The license affirms that L. sakei proBio65 can modulate the gut-skin axis, promoting a favorable gut flora that aids gut health and skin health, helping to alleviate mild eczema and atopic dermatitis (AD) symptoms. The authorization covers use by children and adolescents between ages three and 18, with a suggested dosage of 10 billion heat-treated probiotic organisms in a powder format for oral delivery.
 
This authorization comes following the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)’s listing of the probiotic in its Qualified Presumption of Safety (QPS) list.
 
The use of L. sakei proBio65 is supported by two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials involving over 130 children and adolescents, which both provide evidence that it can improve skin health by modulating the gut-skin axis.
 
Dysregulation of the gut microbiome, a key immune regulator, can cause inflammation and microbial dysbiosis at systemic barrier sites like the skin, promoting the development of skin conditions such as AD.
 
“We’re thrilled with Health Canada’s approval of L. sakei proBio65, affirming its positive impact on skin health. We hope that this endorsement will expand awareness that there is a safe and effective option for the increasing number of children and adolescents dealing with chronic skin conditions like AD, particularly for those concerned about the unwanted side effects often associated with conventional treatments like corticosteroids.
 
“L. sakei proBio65 is the only patented probiotic strain proven to deliver skin health benefits in both live and heat treated (inactivated) forms, opening exciting avenues for delivery innovation. Most probiotics must be delivered live to remain efficacious, limiting the range of available dosage forms. Therefore, L. sakei proBio65’s versatility is a significant breakthrough, allowing formulation in diverse oral formats, including gummies, capsules, and powders, as well as topical creams and lotions.”
 
L. sakei proBio is also suitable for pet treat applications, showcasing the potential impact of this probiotic innovation across multiple industries, according to Kaneka.