Citrus fibers enhanced L. acidophilus CECT 903 and
L. casei CECT 475 survival in MRS broth during
refrigerated storage, but uneven results were obtained for
B. bifidum CECT 870. OF enhanced its growth and LF had
inhibitory effect. Populations of probiotic bacteria decreased
with storage time in MRS broth. The combination
of yogurt starter cultures and the tested probiotic bacteria
resulted in a symbiotic interaction that favored the growth
and survival of all probiotic bacteria in fermented milks.
Citrus fiber presence in fermented milks also enhanced
bacterial growth and survival of the tested probiotic
bacteria. This study indicates that citrus fiber-enriched
fermented milks are good vehicles for a variety of
commercial probiotics, as proved by bacterial counts and
sensory scores, but survival of B. bifidum will need to be
improved and the use of L-cysteine suppressed or reduced
to avoid off-flavors.