PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS COMMERCIAL PROFILE

PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS
COMMERCIAL PROFILE
FIVE REASONS FOR PROBI
ROBUST STRAINS FOR STABILITY
Product stability and long shelf-life thanks to robust strains proven to
PROBIOTICS CREATE BENEFITS FOR
YOU AND YOUR CUSTOMERS
withstand industrial production and supply chain.
The market for probiotics is large and growing rapidly. Probiotics
will increase value, sales and margins. There are significant and
WELL-DOCUMENTED AND PATENTED PROBIOTIC STRAINS
perceived health benefits for your customers, thus creating consumer
The foundation of Probi is research and development. Comprehensive
loyalty.
clinical studies prove the effects of Probi’s potent probiotic bacteria.
Probi currently has more than 100 patents worldwide.
A PARTNERSHIP MODEL WHERE ALL COMPETENCES
ARE UTILIZED TO A MAXIMUM
PROBI IS A LEADING PLAYER WITHIN PROBIOTIC
RESEARCH AND HAS A LONG HISTORY OF
SUCCESSFUL DEVELOPMENT
Probi is a leading player in probiotic research and development of
Probi has a proven track-record with its long-term partner model that
effective and well-documented probiotics. The company was founded
benefits both partners. A model which has been developed together
in 1991 and has a strong history of successful developments within
with partners over more than 15 years.
the areas of the gastrointestinal tract, immune system and recovery.
Probi’s customers are leading companies in the Functional Food and
Consumer Healthcare segments. The company is listed on Nasdaq
OMX Stockholm, Small Cap.
Probiotics with
product-specific
health claims
WHY PROBIOTICS?
The World Health Organization defines probiotics as “live
micro-organisms which, when administered in sufficient
amounts, confer a health benefit on the host”.
Probiotics with
generic health claims
The composition of the gastrointestinal microflora is very
important to our health. Probiotics help to balance the
Probiotics with
limited documentation
intestinal flora, which can result in a healthier digestive
system and strong immune system.
Elie Metchnikoff (1845-1916) is said to be the father of
Bacteria with no documentation
2
PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS
probiotics and was awarded the Nobel Prize in medicine
1908 for his research concerning the human immune system.
O U R A D VA N C E S P R O V I D E A S O L I D P L AT F O R M
FOR CONTINUED COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Peter Nählstedt,
CEO
Niklas Brandt,
CFO
Gun-Britt Fransson,
Vice President
Research & Development
Niklas Bjärum,
Vice President
Marketing & Sales
It is now 20 years since Skånemejerier launched ProViva - a
are now available, and the health benefits of macrobiotic foods are
revolutionary fruit drink at the time, developed by Probi in partnership
gradually being identified. As a result, more sophisticated probiotic
with Skånemejerier. The drink demonstrably helped consumers feel
products will be developed in the future, as well as other types of
better. ProViva proved a significant milestone in our history.
products that can influence our microbiota. Our focus on research
provides real opportunities for participating in this advancement, and
Probi has managed to transform its research results in IBS and immunity
we are rigorously monitoring all developments.
support into a successful business. Following the initial success with
ProViva, we launched an entirely new business area in Consumer
CAPACITY FOR CONTINUED ADVANCEMENT
Healthcare. In recent years, we have refined our business model
We are working tirelessly toward our long-term objective of being
to also include establishing our proprietary brand Probi® among
a prominent probiotic company, at an international level, and the
consumers.
capacity to overcome both our long and more short-term challenges is
highly favourable. We have consistently demonstrated strong business
Our operations are international with agreements covering some 40
results and the many years of research behind our products provide
countries. In parallel with this development, our sales have increased
strength amid international competition.
every year, with retained profitability, despite challenges in the form
of a weaker economy and more stringent regulatory requirements
The best part of the Probi story is that so much still remains to be done.
throughout the industry.
We would very much like to discuss these opportunities with you.
NEW RESEARCH PRESENTS NEW OPPORTUNITIES
Meanwhile, we hope you will enjoy reading this introduction to Probi.
The approximately ten quintillion bacteria that colonise every human
body, our microbiota, are now one of the most important fields in
medical research. Tools for mapping microbiota and their effects
PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS
3
SCIENCE FOR A GOOD LIFE – PROBI IN BRIEF
WORLD LEADER AND YOUR PARTNER IN PROBIOTICS
VISION
Probi operates in the global health-products market. The company
Probi’s vision is to be the world leader in the premium segment for
offers potent and robust probiotics to food, health and pharmaceutical
probiotics by providing a top-quality product range, with profound
companies. In turn, these offer their customers probiotics in the form
health benefits, in the world’s most important health markets.
of functional food under such brands as ProViva , GoodBelly and
®
®
Golden Circle Healthy Life™, or dietary supplements under such
MISSION
proprietary brands as Bion® and Nature Made®. Probi also offers
Probi provides consumers the world over with the opportunity to
its proprietary brands, Probi Mage and Probi Frisk , in the Nordic
improve their health through clinically tested, effective probiotics.
®
®
markets.
BUSINESS CONCEPT
THE PROBIOTIC MARKET IN BRIEF
To provide probiotics with well-documented, positive health benefits
The global probiotics market is highly heterogeneous, both in terms
for leading food and dietary supplement companies.
of the types of products and their health effects. In addition, the
level of maturity among different markets varies. Probiotics have a
STRATEGY
strong position in Japan as a result of a long tradition of use and
Probi’s strategic focus is on probiotic-based products, where Probi
an advanced regulatory system while the North American market is
has world-leading, patented technology. Probi’s growth strategy
relatively immature but in rapid development.
comprises initiatives in the following areas:
BUSINESS AREAS
• New markets
Probi’s business is organised into two business areas, Functional Food
Most of Probi’s sales today are still in the Nordic region and the
and Consumer Healthcare:
potential for international growth is strong. Markets where Probi
has most growth potential include Asia, North America and Eastern
• Functional Food
Europe. In the North American market, Probi will continue to focus on
Probi’s Functional Food business area develops food that provides
expanding the number of sales channels.
beneficial health effects. This takes place in partnership with leading
food companies with the aim of commercialising and marketing
• New product platforms
products with high volume potential.
Probi currently has products in the gastrointestinal health and immune
fields. The research strategy is to develop additional clinical platforms
• Consumer Healthcare
and produce products in new indication areas.
The Consumer Healthcare business area develops, markets and sells
Probi® probiotics in partnership with pharmaceutical companies and
• New product formats
other companies specialised in probiotics and self-care products,
The development strategy in this area focuses on developing new
under Probi’s proprietary brand and those of its partners. The regulatory
product solutions based on Probi’s existing platforms, Probi Digestis®
status of the products is either food or consumer pharmaceuticals
and Probi Defendum®. One example could be target-group-adapted
depending on the market.
combination products with probiotics plus vitamins or minerals.
2004
2002
1991
Probi was founded. Patent
application LP299V®, and others.
1986
Cross functional research
begins at Lund University.
4
PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS
1994
1998
Listing on NGM.
License agreement:
Skånemejerier, ProViva.
2000
Publication of scientific
studies in Clinical
Nutrition.
Publication of positive results
on functional disturbances of
the intestine (IBS).
2003
Listing on the Stockholm Stock
Exchange.
Development of products together
with Danone och Institut Rosell.
Development of nutritional products
for health care.
License agreement with
Danone and Institut Rosell.
Patent application dealing
with new bacterial strains.
LIST OF SELECTED PARTNERS
Functional Food:
Consumer Healthcare:
•
Aristo
•
Danone
•
BiO-LiFE
•
H.J. Heinz Australia
•
Bringwell
•
Kraft Foods
•
Ferring
•
NextFoods
•
Health World
•
Jarrow Formulas
•
Merck
•
Metagenics
•
Pharmavite
•
Proton System
•
Sanofi
•
Sanum Polska
•
USV Ltd.
2006
Agreement with
Metagenics in USA.
2005
Institut Roselllaunches the first
dietary supplement.
2007
2010
2008
NextFoods launches fruit
drinks and Kraft Foods
launches müsli bars.
Agreement with NextFoods.
License and distribution
agreement with Kraft Foods.
2009
Launch of supplements
under the Probi® brands.
Launch of unique Bravo Friscus
100% juice with strong Immune
propositions.
2012
Heinz launches immune
juice in Australia.
Pharmavite launches
suppl. in USA.
2011
Danone acquires ProViva
and signs Intl. License
agreement with Probi.
PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS
5
MARKET AND TRENDS
PROBIOTIC MARKET
In 2003, the global market for probiotics amounted to approx. USD
LIFESTYLE-RELATED DISEASES REACHING
EPIDEMIC PROPORTIONS
32.5 million, with the dietary supplement market representing about
Lifestyle-related diseases are rising sharply all over the world and
one-tenth of the food market.*
pose one of the greatest threats to human health and development.
These include cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory
ROBUST GROWTH IN THE
PROBIOTICS MARKET CONTINUES
diseases and diabetes, which are responsible for an estimated 35
million deaths annually, or about 60% of all deaths globally.
Asia is the largest market. Due to the strong population growth and
greater prosperity, demand is expected to increase most in Asia in the
One of the primary contributors to this development is an unhealthy
years ahead, mainly in China and India.
diet. The World Health Organization (WHO) claims that a large
proportion of cardiovascular diseases, stroke and type 2 diabetes
In percentage terms, the US is the fastest growing market. Annual
could be prevented with a healthier diet, which favours sales of
sales of probiotic products in the US market have more than doubled
probiotic food and drinks.
over the past two years. Russia has also grown by between 2530%. Other major markets with favourable growth include Brazil and
The global health trend is strong and the awareness of health factors
Poland, with annual growth exceeding 5% in recent years.
associated with unhealthy diet is rising. Another strong driver is the
rising average income, primarily in certain markets in Asia and South
Due to the ban on using health claims in the EU, many players have
reduced their marketing campaigns in the EU in recent years.
Food products such as yoghurt and beverages dominate the probiotic
market. The market for both probiotic dietary supplements, which
account for about 10% of the food market, and probiotic juices
is expected to show favourable growth over the coming years. In
general, growth of probiotic dietary supplements is considered higher
than that of probiotic food products.
*Source: Euromonitor 2014
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PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS
America.
PROVIVA – OUR BIGGEST SUCCESS SO FAR
ProViva – building value
LITERS
ProViva was launched 1994 in a very successful partnership with
the regional and progressive dairy company Skånemejerier. Ever
30 000
25 000
since, the brand has shown a very strong annual growth in the
Nordics. ProViva was first in many aspects. It was pioneering
with Functional Food in the Nordics, which introduced a whole
new category of foods, and the technology of adding company
probiotics into a fruit drink was unheard of.
Since then, Skånemejerier/Danone have launched several new
20 000
15 000
10 000
5 000
10
20
05
20
00
20
19
women, as a sports/recovery drink and as a shot.
95
line extensions - in yoghurt, products specifically designed for
Although the brand has not been extensively supported by
ProViva has had great success in Sweden with a population of
marketing investments, sales growth has been strong and steady.
9 million reaching sales of USD 100 million. Taking the ProViva
The basis for ProViva’s excellent development is:
concept and introducing it on a larger scale in a pan-European
•
Consumers find it tasty, convenient and affordable.
market or in the US market has untapped potential for Probi.
•
Consumers percieve the functional gastro benefit shortly
Given the same penetration rate, sales could potentially amount to
after consumption.
several billions of USD.
•
Extensive and convincing scientific documentation is
important to the scientific community and authorities.
•
Our partners have shown a strong determination in
developing the brand and the products.
PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS
7
P R O D U C T P L AT F O R M S
Probi’s product platforms Probi Digestis® and Probi Defendum® are
based on solid clinical data from a large number of clinical trials.
They provide a basis for internationally competitive products that
are purchased by consumers because they experience significant
improvements in their health.
Probi Digestis®: clinical documentation for colon irritabile/IBS
(irritable bowel syndrome) based on Lactobacillus plantarum 299v
(DSM 9843).
Probi Defendum®: clinical documentation for the prevention and
relief of colds and similar infections based on a combination of the
bacterial strains Lactobacillus plantarum Heal 9 (DSM 15312) and
Lactobacillus paracasei 8700:2 (DSM 13434).
LARGE MARKET
On average 20-25% of the population suffer from IBS
CLINICAL EFFECTS
Lactobacillus plantarum 299v is one of the world’s most
researched probiotic (+40 clinical studies) and has
demonstrated the broadest health effects ranging from GI
disorders to metabolic effects like reduction of risk factors
for cardiovascular disease. Probi has, in a number of
state-of-the-art designed clinical studies (randomized,
FOOD PRODUCT (EG JUICE)
double-blind, placebo controlled studies ranging from
•
Lactobacillus plantarum 299v (DSM 9843)
40-200 subjects), achieved amongst others the following
•
Approx. 10 billion CFU/ daily dose at end of shelf-life
strong clinical effects in the GI area:
- dose 200-250ml
•
Shelf stability: Chilled drinks 35-75 days (8°C/4°C)
LP299V® clinical studies have shown:
•
100% reduction of abdominal pain
SUPPLEMENT (EG CAPSULES)
•
60% normalization of stool frequency
•
Lactobacillus plantarum 299v (DSM 9843)
•
95% improvement in IBS symptoms
•
Approx. 10 billion CFU/ dose at end of shelf-life
Of which:
- dose 1 capsule/day
•
45% of subjects experienced complete improvement
Shelf stability: 18-24 months ambient
•
50% of subjects experienced partial improvement
•
Significant reduction of bloating (and gas formation)
•
Significant reduction of pain
•
Significant improvement of overall GI functions
•
LARGE MARKET
On average adults yearly suffer from 2 to 3 episodes of
cold/flu and children from 6 to 10.
CLINICAL EFFECTS
Probi has, in three state-of-the-art designed clinical
studies (randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled)
on a total of 600 subjects, achieved the following
clinical effects:
FOOD PRODUCT (EG JUICE)
•
Lactobacillus plantarum HEAL9 (DSM 15312) and
Lactobacillus paracasei 8700:2 (DSM 13434)
•
Approx. 1 billion CFU/ daily dose at end of shelf-life
- dose 200-250ml
•
•
Significant reduction of the incidence of common cold
•
Significant reduction of the number of sick days
•
Significant reduction of common
cold symptoms
•
Stimulates the immune system
Shelf stability: Chilled drinks 35-75 days (8°C/4°C)
SUPPLEMENT (EG CHEWABLE TABLET)
•
Lactobacillus plantarum HEAL9 (DSM 15312) and
Lactobacillus paracasei 8700:2 (DSM 13434)
•
Approx. 1 billion CFU/ dose at end of shelf-life
- dose 1 tablet/day
•
Shelf stability: 18-24 months ambient
PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS
9
HEALTH WORLD LIMITED, AUSTRALIA
In January 2014, Health World Limited launched Inner Health
Immune Booster for Adults, based on Probi Defendum®, on the
Australian market. Health World, being Probi’s first partner in
the Consumer Healthcare business, has successfully been selling
Probi Digestis® for eight years in Australia and New Zealand.
Graeme Joiner, Director of Sales & Marketing:
“After years of successful sales and marketing of Probi Digestis®,
we are happy to add a new probiotic concept from Probi, Probi
Defendum®. In line with Probi’s proven R&D strategy the product
has good and solid clinical documentation. We are looking
forward to continue the close collaboration with Probi and take
part in Probi’s growing probiotic pipline.”
Health World is a leading supplier of natural medicines in Australia
and New Zealand by providing high quality effective products
based on the latest scientific research. Health World ensures
product quality, safety and efficacy by strictly analyzing and
testing their products on site at their purpose built manufacturing
facility in Northgate, Queensland.
BIO-LIFE, MALAYSIA
In November 2013, BiO-LiFE launched PROBI LP299V®, based
on Probi Digestis® on the Malaysian market. BiO-LiFE is a
growing healthcare subsidiary within DKSH, the leading Market
Expansion Service provider with a focus on Asia, giving the
opportunity to expand in the region.
John Goebel, General Manager
“We are very pleased to partner with Probi, a leading company
in probiotic research, for the launch and branding of PROBI
LP299V® and bringing a clinically studied and unique product for
the treatment of IBS related symptoms to the Malaysian market.
We look forward to establishing the PROBI LP299V® brand in
Malaysia.”
BiO-LiFE Marketing is a growing healthcare subsidiary within
DKSH, the leading Market Expansion Services provider with focus
on Asia. The first BiO-LiFE branded products were launched in
Malaysia in 1990. Since then, the brand has developed a wide
range of quality and efficacious products, built on partnering with
industry leaders for natural healthcare.
10
PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS
PROBIOTIC FACTS
No scientific studies exist that show any risks in conjunction
with the consumption of lactobacilli. Lactic acid bacteria have
been used for thousands of years for lactic fermentation of
food. The method is a way of preserving food and is used all
over the world.
Most scientists agree that probiotic microorganisms used must
fulfill certain requirements.
To be called probiotic, these microorganisms should:
1. be safe
2. have a high rate of survival in the products in which they
are used
3. have a high rate of survival in the gastrointestinal tract
4. be able to adhere to the intestinal mucosa
5. demonstrate clinically proven beneficial health effects
SELECTED PRODUCTS
100% JUICE
SHOT
Bravo Friscus, launched in 2009, was a major research breakthrough.
ProViva Shot is a more concentrated ProViva fruit drink that was
It was one of the first 100% juices in the world to contain active bacteria
launched in 2003. As the name implies, the product should be
cultures. The unique formula of probiotic bacteria – Lactobacillus
consumed in one shot a day. The concentration of bacteria is five
plantarum HEAL 9 and Lactobacillus paracasei 8700:2, forming
times higher than in the fruit drinks. ProViva Shot is a convenient way
Probi Defendum – supports the body’s natural defences. Golden
to start a new and healthy habit.
®
Circle Healthy Life™ Fruit Juice with Probiotic Cultures, based on
Probi Defendum®, is the first of its kind in Australia.
PROVIVA50
ProViva50 contains 50% less sugar compared to juices and other fruit
FRUIT DRINKS
drinks. ProViva50 has no added sugar – the sugar comes from the
The ProViva fruit drink, launched in 1994, is one of the most successful
fruit’s natural sugar and a small amount of stevia has been added.
probiotic food products in the world. Lactobacillus plantarum 299v
has extensive clinical documentation in the gastro field. In November
SHOT PLUS
2003, ProViva was the first probiotic product outside Japan to
GoodBelly was launched in 2008 in the US by NextFoods. The drink
receive official approval from an authoritative body (the Swedish
is essentially the same as the ProViva drink sold in Scandinavia, but
Nutrition Foundation) to be marketed with a product-specific health
has a flavor profile and nutritional formula adapted to the US market.
claim. ProViva, as well as GoodBelly fruit drinks, are based on Probi
GoodBelly Plus is a probiotic fruit drink that in a single shot provides
Digestis®.
a large amount of essential nutrients with a high dose of Lactobacillus
plantarum 299v.
ACTIVE RECOVERY DRINK
Clinical trials have shown that ProViva Active increases the body’s
STRAIGHT SHOT
antioxidative capacity, protecting the cells from free radicals formed
GoodBelly StraightShot is a gently flavored dairy-free oatmilk with 20
in the body during physical exercise. The nutritional profile is adopted
billion live and active probiotic cultures per serving, and no added
to replenish energy levels and support recovery after sports. ProViva
sugar.
Active is based on Probi Digestis®, containing the Lactobacillus
plantarum 299v strain.
BIGSHOT 50
GoodBelly BigShot 50 contains 50 billion live probiotic bacteria
SOUR MILK
per shot and is targeted towards consumers with special needs or
ProViva sourmilk has a unique creamy consistency and contains only
experiencing digestive flare-ups. The product has a high concentration
0.5% fat. It has the same concentration of Lactobacillus plantarum
of bacteria, but is sufficiently mild for daily consumption.
299v as the fruit drinks.
12
PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS
PROBI’S PROBIOTIC APPLICATIONS
•
Fruit drinks
•
Soy
•
Fruit shots
•
Frozen Foods
•
Juices 100%
•
Ice Cream
•
Recovery drinks
•
Cereals
•
Yogurt
•
Bars
•
Drinking yogurt
•
Powdered Beverages
•
Kefir/Sour-milk
•
Delivery Solutions
•
Fresh Milk
•
Tablets
•
Cheese
•
Capsules
•
Fresh cheese
•
Sachets
VEGGIE DRINK
GoodBelly veggie drink offers a combination of carrots and ginger.
Carrot Ginger is gluten-free and fortified with 20 billion live and
active probiotic cultures per serving.
COCONUT WATER
GoodBelly fermented probiotic coconut water is made with a glutenfree, non-GMO oat flour.
PROBIOTIC GASTRO/IBS CAPSULE
Probi’s Gastro product is positioned against IBS (Irritable Bowel
Syndrome) symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, constipation,
flatulence, etc. One example is Probi’s own brand, Probi Mage®.
PROBIOTIC IMMUNE TABLET
Probi has developed a probiotic chewable tablet to reduce negative
effects associated with colds and flues. Until now no effective
treatment to fight viruses has been available. One product example
that fulfills this demand is Probi’s own brand, Probi Frisk®.
READ MORE ABOUT:
ProViva at proviva.com
GoodBelly at goodbelly.com
Probi Mage® and Probi Frisk® at bringwell.com*
*Distributed and marketed by Bringwell.
PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS
13
A PA R T N E R T H R O U G H O U T T H E P R O C E S S
BENEFIT FROM A WELL-PROVEN PARTNER MODEL
Probi develops and sells probiotics in two areas: Functional Food and
Probi has a proven track-record with its long-term partner model
Consumer Healthcare.
designed to benefit both parties.
In the area of Functional Food, probiotic concepts exist for a number
Probi offers licenses and sell finished products to companies
of ordinary foodstuffs, and new concepts are being developed
that produce, distribute and sell functional foods and/or dietary
continuously.
supplements.
Interest in foods with specific health-promoting characteristics over
Probi grants licenses for its technology to food companies, usually in
and above their nutritional value has increased markedly in recent
the form of a royalty on the customers´ sales of products. In the case
years. This increased demand has led major food manufacturers to
of Consumer Healthcare, Probi usually sells finished goods in bulk.
start establishing wide ranges of probiotic products. It is however
Probi’s customers, according to their specific preference, then
difficult for probiotics to survive in all types of food. Probi’s probiotics
package these locally. This model guarantees high probiotic stability
have both documented beneficial health effects and survive for an
and minimizes time-to-market.
extended period of time in a variety of foods, including fruit drinks,
cereals and müsli bars.
In some cases, Probi offers exclusivity to customers against special
compensation, such as down payments.
Probi’s probiotics are primarily used in chilled food products. Product
categories that have been successfully enriched with Probi’s probiotics
We offer our partners expertise in probiotic research and
are juices, fruit drinks, yoghurt and ice cream, but also ambient
development, and contribute in-depth competence in areas such
products such as breakfast cereals and bars. Probi has a strong
as science, product development, industrialization and regulatory
position in technically difficult applications thanks to its robust and
support as well as marketing.
effective bacteria.
DOCUMENTED BENEFICIAL HEALTH
EFFECTS AND LONG SURVIVAL
In the area of Consumer Healthcare, Probi offers solutions for all of the
most common applications, including capsules and tablets.
The demand for products that fall into the zone between traditional
foods and pharmaceuticals is extensive. The common denominator
for these products is their beneficial health effects.
To obtain an optimal effect from probiotics, it is essential for a
bacterium to survive the food manufacturing process, the product’s
“At Probi, we support our customers with know-how to ensure
shelf-life and yet colonize in the GI tract. A number of factors limit the
and check the survival of probiotics during the manufacturing
bacteria’s survival and product shelf-life: heat, water activity (for dry
processes. This ensures that customers obtain the optimal effect
applications) and the existence of antibacterial components in the
of Probi’s probiotics in their products.”
finished product.
14
PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS
A ONE-STOP SHOP OFFER
•
Global market knowledge
•
Broad R&D expertise
•
Microbiology
•
Nutrition
•
Application and product developement
•
Medicine
•
Regulatory
•
Strong know-how in demanding applications
PROBI R&D
R&D – THE HEART OF PROBI
The foundation and heart of Probi is research and development. That
is why we can state that our probiotic bacteria are potent and have
GUN-BRITT FRANSSON ON PROBI’S RESEARCH
AND DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY
a validated effect.
”The research strategy is based on Probi having a research
As Probi was founded by microbiologists and surgeons, it is in the
portfolio with both long and short-term projects and a
company’s heart that the results rest on prominent basic and applied
balanced level of risk. Recently, an inventory of new product
research. This has affected Probi’s culture and work method during the
areas was implemented to identify areas where Probi’s
entire life time of the company – and so it will remain.
probiotics are considered to provide health benefits and to
have major commercial potential. Probi used the results to
The R&D organization’s work is carried out in a similar way of that
produce a clinical research programme for the coming years.
of the pharmaceutical industry and the basic research is continuously
This programme includes broadening the documentation for
carried out at Lund University by a team funded by Probi. Further R&D is
existing products to also include children.
then performed by Probi and the pre-clinical and clinical development
is continued under the full control of the company. Larger clinical trials
In addition, Probi focuses on improving existing products and
are often performed in cooperation with well-known CRO’s. At Probi,
developing new product matrices.”
we focus on specific health issues where probiotics have a positive
impact and we also take the responsibility for product safety.
Clinical and product development usually takes at least three years
from concept to finished product. To ensure that the scientific results
are turned into products, Probi has a dedicated product development
department responsible for preparing external production of various
products.
Probi intends to continue being a pioneer in probiotics by launching
new products addressing important health needs. We will achieve
Gun-Britt Fransson
this by increasing the pace of research and product development.
Vice President Research & Development
Probi is renowned throughout the industry for delivering clinical data
of the highest quality through its international collaborations.
Probi continuously focuses on gastro health and on the immune
OVER A HUNDRED PATENTS WORLDWIDE
system. Currently, active research is conducted within the
following focus areas:
Patents are very important, both for Probi’s scientific renown
•
Disorders of the stomach and gastrointestinal tract
and for allowing commercialsation through licensing. Probi
•
The immune system
has patents protecting its core probiotic strains and their health
•
The metabolic syndrome (including cardiovascular
properties. The patent portfolio is monitored and analyzed
disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity)
regularly and Probi currently has over a hundred patents
Stress and recovery (including nutrient uptake)
worldwide.
•
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PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS
OUR SUCCESSFUL IMMUNE STUDIES
Probi’s successful common cold study in Berlin generated worldclass results. In 2009 the first product based on the research
was launched. The product – a fruit juice called Bravo Friscus –
contains a combination of two probiotic strains that regulate the
immune system, resulting in reduced cold symptoms and shortened
cold periods. The clinical findings surpass results from previous
competitive studies. Cold symptoms among trial recipients of
Probi’s product fell by 34 per cent compared with the placebo
group. Also, the length of the cold periods were significantly
reduced among people who received Probi’s product: (5.6 days
as opposed to 6.7 days for the placebo group).
In a previous study with the same combination of probiotic
strains, it has been statistically proven that the strain combination
reduces the risk of getting a cold as well as the number of days
with cold symptoms. Probi’s product contains a combination
of two probiotic strains, one Lactobacillus plantarum and one
Lactobacillus paracasei. Probi has been unable to identify
any current product on the world market that can match
these results. This has provided Probi with the impetus and a
chewable tablet was launched for the first time at the end of
2009 beginning of 2010 together with the Nordic health care
company Bringwell. The successful clinical development has
broadened Probi’s scope and opened up a new global market
for Probi with an estimated value of about SEK 40 billion.
I T S TA R T E D W I T H A V I S I O N T O S AV E L I V E S
After a few days Bengt Jeppsson realised that he may have removed
too much of his own intestine. As a surgical professor he should have
known better, but the probiotics project – where he was the “guinea
pig” – was so exciting that he got carried away….and that’s just the
beginning of the Probi story.
It all began when Surgery Professor Stig Bengmark observed the high
frequency of infection among patients who had undergone large liver
or pancreas operations. The most common postoperative treatment
was to give patients large doses of antibiotics to prevent infection.
Stig Bengmark’s idea was to strengthen the intestinal mucosa with a
Bengt Jeppsson
Göran Molin
new and improved nutrient solution, thus preventing harmful intestinal
bacteria from leaking into the rest of the body. This idea marked the
in their intestines to see whether any probiotic candidates had
start of a partnership with some of the other key people behind Probi.
established themselves in their intestinal microflora.
This led to a completely new type of nutrient solution with a probiotic
The trials identified two strains of the Lactobacillus plantarum species
bacterial strain that had been used to ferment an oat-based drink. Oats
with beneficial properties and after further trials, an oat-based soup
contain betaglucans and certain lipids, which could have been the
fermented with the Lactobacillus plantarum 299v bacterium was
properties that strengthened the intestinal wall, but the team gradually
produced – which is the active bacterium today in Probi’s products for
became more and more convinced that the key to strengthening the
gastrointestinal health.
mucosa lay in this newly discovered bacterial strain.
Tests on both patients and healthy individuals demonstrated that the
BACTERIA – FROM SUPPORTING ROLE TO LEADING PLAYER
oat-based bacteria had obvious beneficial effects on intestinal health
The difficulty lay in finding a nutrient solution that was similar to
and general well-being.
real food, contained a high degree of roughage and had the right
consistency to pass through a thin tube. Stig Bengmark contacted
The leading scientists in this project with the fermented probiotic drink
food technologist Kåre Larsson, who was a prominent surface and
were Professor Nils Molin, Göran Molin, Siv Ahrné and Clas Lönner.
lipid chemist with an interest in grains – particularly oats. Oats were
They remain partners to Probi today.
already recognised as a suitable base for nutrient solutions. The idea
of using bacteria came from a method of fermenting an oat-based
FOOD OR DRUG?
soup to make the mixture thinner.
The greatest issue was whether the oat-based drink was a drug or
something else. Probi was founded in 1991, but with no definitive
Kåre Larsson thus brought together Stig Bengmark and Professor Nils
decision regarding the company’s commercial focus.
Molin, who worked with all forms of industrial fermentation processes.
In 1992, after a contact with Skånemejerier’s development department
”This project contained interesting microbiological, food technological
which luckily was positive, a joint project was initiated to investigate
and medical features. We were lucky because resources and expertise
the market potential.
were available close by and everyone involved was enthusiastic,”
says Kåre Larsson.
Luck is one of the factors behind Probi – but there are at least two
more factors behind the success; the passion and conviction behind
Parallel to these trials with oats, an extensive study was carried out
all of Probi’s research.
to isolate the lactobacilli that were best suited to industrial processes,
18
and that could also adhere to, and survive in, the intestinal mucosa
“Our collaboration between many fields of expertise such as
after they were eaten. This also raised the question of what they could
microbiologists, surgeons, marketing specialists and food technologists
achieve – whether they had any beneficial health effects.
has been totally unique,” says Clas Lönner.
This was the reason why Bengt Jeppsson and a number of colleagues
“This company has produced some excellent research. We’ve made
swallowed the preparations containing various probiotic candidates.
some wise and well-informed decisions along the way but also dared
In the weeks that followed, biopsies were taken from various locations
to take risks and test entirely new methods,” says Siv Ahrné.
PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS
C O N TA C T A N D M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N
MARKETING & SALES – CONSUMER HEALTHCARE
VISITING ADDRESS:
Johan Wahlqvist, Director Marketing & Sales
Sölvegatan 41A
Phone: +46 46 286 89 27
Lund, Sweden
E-mail: johan.wahlqvist@probi.se
POSTAL ADDRESS:
Probi AB
Ideon Gamma 1
223 70 Lund, Sweden
MARKETING & SALES – FUNCTIONAL FOOD
Ingvar Wirfelt , Director Marketing & Sales
TELEPHONE:
Phone: +46 46 286 89 65
+46 46 286 89 20
E-mail: ingvar.wirfelt@probi.se
FAX:
+46 46 286 89 28
E-MAIL:
MARKETING & SALES – REGIONAL DIRECTOR EMEA
probi@probi.se
Michael Møller Jensen, Regional Director Marketing & Sales
firstname.lastname@probi.se
Phone: +46 76 336 87 11
E-mail: michael.moller.jensen@probi.se
WEBSITE:
www.probi.com
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
Niklas Larsson, PhD Research Director
Phone +46 46 286 89 21
E-mail: niklas.larsson@probi.se
APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT AND PRODUCTION
Kerstin Holmgren, Director Production & Application Development
Phone +46 46 286 89 72
E-mail: kerstin.holmgren@probi.se
PROBI – FIRST IN PROBIOTICS
19
P O S TA L A D D R E S S :
PROBI AB
IDEON GAMMA 1
223 70 LUND, SWEDEN
VISITING ADDRESS:
S Ö LV E G ATA N 4 1 A
LUND, SWEDEN
TEL +46 46 286 89 20
FA X + 4 6 4 6 2 8 6 8 9 2 8
PROBI@PROBI.SE
W W W. P R O B I . C O M