HealthJuly 16, 2026
postbiotics
/ˌpoʊst.baɪˈɒt.ɪks/
Definition
Inactivated microbial cells or their components that provide health benefits to the host, particularly regarding gut and brain function.
Etymology
The term is a combination of the Latin 'post' (after) and 'biotics' (derived from the Greek 'biotikos' meaning 'pertaining to life'). It describes substances that are the result of microbial processes rather than being live organisms themselves.
In the news
In this article, postbiotics are identified as a stable, non-living alternative to traditional probiotics for supporting the gut-brain axis. They are highlighted as a key area of innovation for ingredients that promote cognitive function.
Holistic health drives cognitive supplement demand and ingredient innovations
Read the full article ↗Nutrition Insight