Study on BLP1 supplementation

Pro- and postbiotic supplementation shows effects on gut health in adult dogs – this is the conclusion of a clinical study by ADM investigating Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CECT 8145 1, or BPL1 for short, on the microbiome. This study investigated the effects of daily supplementation of both the live probiotic and heat-treated postbiotic form of BPL1 on the health of dogs. According to a consumer study, 55 per cent of US pet owners have purchased and administered biotics to their pet at least once a year on the recommendation of a professional, many times to aid digestion or gastrointestinal issues.

For this exploratory study, 18 adult Beagles and 18 English Pointers were used and numerous measurements were taken. The results confirm that this strain is safe for dogs and “we also found evidence of positive changes in gut health, such as an increase in propionate concentration in the feces after supplementation”, points out ADM. Propionate is an important component of overall gut health and has numerous known positive physiological effects.

Both the live and heat-treated forms of BPL1 can be safely administered to healthy adult dogs and support various aspects of gut health. As heat-treated BPL1 has a similar effect to live BPL1, pet product manufacturers have more flexibility in the manufacturing and delivery process as they do not need to make adjustments for live microorganisms.