Table 1.
Definitions of probiotics
| Year | Definitions |
|---|---|
| 1965 | A substance secreted by one microorganism which stimulates the growth of another [5] |
| 1971 | Tissue extracts which stimulate microbial growth [6] |
| 1974 | Organisms and substances that contribute to intestinal microbial balance [7] |
| 1989 | Live microbial feed supplement which beneficially affects the host animal by improving microbial balance [8] |
| 1992 | Viable mono- or mixed culture of live microorganisms which, applied to animals or man, have a beneficial effect on the host by improving the properties of the indigenous microflora [9] |
| 1996 | A live microbial culture or cultured dairy product that beneficially influences the health and nutrition of the host [10] |
| 1996 | Living microorganisms which, upon ingestion in certain numbers, exert health benefits beyond inherent basic nutrition [11] |
| 1998 | Living microorganisms that on ingestion in certain numbers exert health benefits beyond inherent basic nutrition [12] |
| 1999 | A microbial dietary adjuvant that beneficially affects the host physiology by modulating mucosal and systemic immunity, as well as improving nutritional and microbial balance in the intestinal tract [13] |
| 2001 | A preparation of or a product containing viable, defined microorganisms in sufficient numbers, which alter the microflora (by implantation or colonization) in a compartment of the host and by that exert beneficial health effect in this host [14] |
| 2002 | Live strains of strictly selected microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host [15] |
| 2004 | Preparation of viable microorganisms that is consumed by humans or other animals with the aim of inducing beneficial effects by qualitatively or quantitatively influencing their gut microflora and/or modifying their immune status [16, 17] |
| 2009 | Live microorganisms, which when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host [18] |
| 2013 | Live strains of strictly selected microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host [19] |