Biotechnology company ZBiotics has introduced a genetically engineered probiotic drink in a bid to address the deficiencies in the American diet.
The new offering, Sugar-to-Fiber Probiotic Drink Mix, is claimed to be the first product of its kind for the consumer market.
It is designed to convert dietary sugar (sucrose) into a special type of prebiotic fibre (levan) continuously throughout the day.
Particularly, Sugar-to-Fiber Probiotic Drink Mix will tackle significant fibre insufficiency in Western diets and will help in improving gut microbiome health.
A healthier microbiome can lead to healthier bowel movements, improve digestion and immunity.
ZBiotics co-founder and CEO Zachary Abbott said: “When done responsibly and transparently, genetic engineering has endless applications, delivering effective products that perform the exact function they are designed to do.
“We are ‘proudly GMO.’ This intersection of biology and technology already has the power to profoundly improve our health and our lives. On a macro level, it also has the potential to address some of humanity’s biggest challenges.”
Montana State University Microbiology & Cell Biology Professor Seth Walk said: “ZBiotics is developing new and augmenting standing microbiome functions that scientists believe will improve human health. This is a very different approach than other companies in this space seeking to supply one organism for the masses.”
ZBiotics focuses on delivering solutions to meet evolving needs of health-conscious consumers.
The company has already launched its flagship Pre-Alcohol Probiotic Drink that targets and breaks down an unwanted byproduct of alcohol.
Last month, ZBiotics secured $12m in a Series A funding round led by venture capital firm Spring Tide Capital.
