Live And Active Cultures: Streptococcus Thermophilus

Streptococcus thermophilus is a type of bacteria commonly used in food production. It is a lactic acid bacterium, meaning it produces lactic acid as a byproduct of its metabolism. This bacterium is naturally found in the digestive tract of mammals.

S. thermophilus is primarily used as a starter culture in the production of yogurt and other fermented dairy products. It helps to ferment lactose (milk sugar) into lactic acid, which gives yogurt its characteristic tangy flavor and thick texture. It is often used in combination with other bacterial cultures, such as Lactobacillus bulgaricus, to achieve the desired taste and consistency.

S. thermophilus is recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is considered a probiotic, meaning it may provide health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet, particularly for gut health. While generally regarded as safe, some individuals may experience mild digestive upset when first consuming foods with live and active cultures. International bodies like EFSA have also evaluated probiotics, but specific evaluations for S. thermophilus in isolation are not always detailed.