Comprehensive genomic assessment of available probiotics in India: A framework for safety and functionality evaluation

Probiotic strains, defined as live microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host when administered in adequate amounts, are widely incorporated into commercial products. Therefore, assessing the safety and functional attributes of 20 commercially available probiotic strains using complete genome sequencing is of immediate importance. Our analysis revealed that 15% of the products were mislabeled, containing species different from those declared on the label. Further, 12% of the tested strains harbored transferable antimicrobial resistance genes. However, 8% Bacillus species contained virulence-associated genes. Nonetheless probiotic-related genes linked to acid and bile tolerance were consistently found in Lactobacillus strains. These findings underscore the urgent need for standardized genomic safety assessments prior to the market approval of probiotic products.