The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) consensus statement on the definition and scope of synbiotics

In this expert consensus document, an ISAPP-led panel of international academic experts defined a synbiotic as “a mixture comprising live microorganisms and substrate(s) selectively utilized by host microorganisms that confers a health benefit on the host”. The definition does not require that each component meet the evidence and dose requirements for probiotics and prebiotics individually, as this requirement could stifle innovation. The panel distinguished between a complementary synbiotic and a synergistic synbiotic. This paper also discusses evidence for synbiotic safety and effects upon targets.

REFERENCE:

Swanson KS, Gibson GR, Hutkins R, Reimer RA, Reid G, Verbeke K, Scott KP, Holscher HD, Azad MB, Delzenne NM, Sanders ME. The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) consensus statement on the definition and scope of synbiotics. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2020;17(11):687-701. doi: 10.1038/s41575-020-0344-2.