Weet-bix to get a bacterial boost from VRI

Sydney probiotics manufacturer VRI BioMedical has announced a deal with Australia's largest vegetarian food company, Sanitarium, to develop a range of health-promoting functional foods around its probiotic technology.

The technology is a freeze-dried culture of VRI Biomedical's patented strain of the bacterium Lactobacillus fermentum, which produces an anti-inflammatory molecule that scientific and clinical evidence suggests can benefit individuals with inflammatory skin disorders like psoriasis and eczema.

Sanitarium manufactures well-known food products including Weet-Bix, and So-Good soy-based products. Sanitatium plans to launch a range of new probiotic or "wellness" foods incorporating the bacteria, beginning this year.

Bacteria produce a wide range of peptide molecules, called bacteriocins, that actively suppress or kill rival species in the competition for nutrients.

A company spokesman said today the identity of the probiotic's anti-inflammatory molecule, and its mode of action, are the subject of a research project in the UK, sponsored by the Rowett Foundation.

The company said the global regulation of functional foods - foods that provides direct, pharmaceutical-like health benefits in addition to nutritional benefits - is becoming more stringent.

Companies are now required to provide clinical and scientific evidence to substantiate their claims of health benefits. VRI MediTech already has such data, placing it in a strong position to capitalise on marketing opportunities in the functional foods industry.

VRI's chief executive officer, Kim Slatyer, said VRI was pursing similar partnering opportunities globally.