1. Introduction
The large intestine contains over 400 different microbial species. The native microorganisms, which are the
dominant microflora in the colon, limit the ability of
pathogenic genera including Escherichia, Clostridium,
Salmonella and Campylobacter to attach to the lumen
(Ziemer & Gibson, 1998). Once the microbial balance
is disturbed, intestinal bloating and diarrhea may occur.
Of the native strains of colonic microflora, the probiotic
genera of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli have been
extensively studied and established as valuable native
inhabitants of the colon.
Probiotics are defined as live microbial feed supplements which beneficially affect the host by improving