The beneficial effects of food with added live microbes (probiotics) on human
health, and in particular of milk products on children and other high-risk populations, are
being increasingly promoted by health professionals. It has been reported that these
probiotics can play an important role in immunological, digestive and respiratory
functions and could have a significant effect in alleviating infectious disease in children.
As there are no international consensus on the methodology to assess the efficacy
and the safety of these products, at present, it was considered necessary to convene an
Expert Consultation to evaluate and suggest general guidelines for such assessments.
The Consultation evaluated the latest information and scientific evidence available
on the functional and safety aspects of probiotics, as well as the methodology to assess
such aspects, by bringing together worldwide scientific experts in the field.