Whey protein-kefiran films as driver of probiotics to the gut

Abstract

In this work, an alternative matrix for probiotics delivery constituted by whey proteins and polysaccharide kefiran was investigated. Edible transparent and homogeneous films containing the microorganisms Lactobacillus paracasei CIDCA 8339 and Kluyveromyces marxianus CIDCA 8154 with probiotic characteristics have been developed. Inclusion of microorganisms did not modify thickness, color or mechanical characteristics of films. This matrix showed good capability protecting the included probiotics from stress during film obtaining process and through gastrointestinal passage simulation. At the end of the applied gastrointestinal tract model, 7.1.105 CFU/ cm2 K. marxianus CIDCA 8154 and 1.65.107 CFU/cm2 L. paracasei CIDCA 8339 remain viable, having decreased less than 0.6 logarithm cycle with respect to those originally included, even after 57 days of films storage.