Gut Health Trends

When buying probiotics, often noted the terms “species” and “strain.”

What was the difference?

Species:

A broader classification, such as Lactobacillus plantarum.

Strain:

A specific strain under a species, with unique genes and functions.

For example, Lactobacillus plantarum GKM3™ and Lactobacillus plantarum GKK1™ belonged to Lactobacillus plantarum, but their functions were completely different.

GKM3™ focused on metabolism and weight management,  

GKK1™ focused on immune regulation and skin health.

Why the strain number important?

The Consumer Council pointed out that only products clearly labeled with strain numbers allowed consumers to confirm their scientific evidence and efficacy.

All 73⁺ strains had patent numbers, including GKK1™, GKK2™, GKM3™, GKS6™, GKF3™, GKA7™, and GKB2 with targeted functions and patent support.