Probiotic labels are unusually hard to compare. Two products at the same price can be doing very different things.
This explains what the label is actually telling you, and which parts are worth paying attention to.
Key points
- The specific strain matters more than the species name.
- A higher CFU count is not automatically better.
- Storage requirements vary and affect what survives to the use-by date.
- Probiotics and prebiotics are different things.
What is a probiotic?
A probiotic is a live microorganism intended to be taken in an amount that has a measured effect.
That definition matters, because it means the evidence attaches to a specific strain at a specific dose, not to probiotics as a category.
Why does the strain matter more than the species?
A label might say Lactobacillus rhamnosus, but the research is usually done on one particular strain of it, identified by a code after the name.
Two products naming the same species can contain different strains with different evidence behind them. If a product names its strains in full, that is a good sign.
Is a higher CFU count better?
Not on its own. CFU counts the colony-forming units per dose, and the useful amount depends on the strain rather than following a simple more-is-better rule.
Also check whether the count is guaranteed at the use-by date or only at the time of manufacture — those are very different claims.
Do probiotics need to be refrigerated?
Some do and some do not, depending on the strains and how the product is made. Follow the storage instructions on the pack.
Shelf-stable products are not inherently weaker; they are formulated differently.
What about prebiotics?
A prebiotic is a fibre that feeds the bacteria already in your gut, rather than adding more. Some products combine both.
Important. If you have ongoing digestive symptoms, see your GP rather than working through supplements. Anyone who is immunocompromised, seriously unwell, pregnant or breastfeeding should check with their healthcare professional before taking a probiotic.
How long should you take a probiotic for?
Follow the directions on your product. Effects are generally tied to ongoing use rather than persisting after you stop.
Browse our gut health range. Every member of our team is a certified nutritionist, so ask us if the label is not making sense.
This is a supplementary product and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
