Screening of more than one thousand isolates identified eight high-folate candidates, including Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Heyndrickxia coagulans. The authors then assembled a seven-strain cocktail for in-vivo testing.

In 36 male mice, only the high-dose group showed significantly higher serum folate and lower homocysteine. Faecal detection of the administered microorganisms was dose-dependent and described as transient.

The result supports a microbial-biofortification rationale, not a human claim. Clinical trials, comparison with conventional folate sources and assessment of stability, cross-feeding and long-term safety are required.

Why it matters

The concept shifts probiotics from generic gut health towards a specific, measurable biosynthetic function.

Evidence limit

A preclinical study in 36 male mice. It does not establish human efficacy, equivalence to dietary or synthetic folate, useful dose or safety.

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