Why Probiotics Need to be DNA Verified

By Dr. Kevin Passero

In a world increasingly driven by technology, probiotics—the tiny, beneficial bacteria that support our gut health—are now undergoing more rigorous scrutiny than ever before.

One of the cutting-edge techniques gaining traction in the probiotic industry is DNA verification, a process that helps ensure the strain identity and quality of these microbes.

What is DNA Verification for Probiotics?

DNA verification is the most technologically advanced way of identifying and confirming the exact species and strain of probiotic bacteria present in a product. While traditional methods of identifying probiotics rely on physical traits (like colony shape, size or color) and biochemical tests, DNA verification is much more precise and reliable. 

By analyzing the genetic material of the microbes, manufacturers can confirm that what’s listed on the label is actually what’s in the product.

How DNA Verification Works

DNA verification typically involves extracting DNA from the probiotic culture, amplifying specific regions of the genetic material (via techniques like PCR, or polymerase chain reaction), and sequencing the DNA. Once the DNA is sequenced, it is compared against known databases of microbial genomes to identify the species and strain.

This process is highly accurate, and because each strain has a unique genetic fingerprint, it can precisely distinguish between closely related strains that might otherwise look similar under a microscope or based on biochemical tests.

5 Reasons Why DNA Verification Matters

1. Ensuring Strain Accuracy
The most crucial reason for DNA verification in probiotics is to ensure strain accuracy. For instance, Bifidobacterium lactis BI-04 is one of the most researched probiotic strains and has been shown to support digestive health and comfort along with immune function.

With over 200 different bifidobacterial strains out there, getting the right one can make all the difference.

If your probiotic is not genetically verified down to the level of the strain, you really have no idea what you are getting or the effects it might have on your body. Without DNA verification, there’s a risk that a probiotic supplement might contain a different strain or dosage than what’s on the label, potentially offering none of the benefits you are expecting.

2. Avoiding Contamination
DNA verification also plays a key role in detecting contamination. Probiotic manufacturing environments need to be carefully controlled to avoid the introduction of unwanted microbes. If a batch is contaminated with harmful bacteria or pathogens, this will be revealed through DNA testing.

3. Guaranteeing Consistency
Probiotic supplements are often purchased for their long-term health benefits, and consumers rely on the consistency of the product. DNA verification helps ensure that each batch of probiotics contains the same strains in the same quantities, meaning consumers can expect the same results with every purchase.

4. Compliance with Regulations
Regulatory bodies like the FDA and EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) are increasingly focusing on the accuracy of probiotic claims. DNA verification helps manufacturers meet these standards by providing clear, verifiable proof that the product matches what is on the label.

5. Improved Consumer Trust
With so many probiotics on the market, buyers need to be more discerning than ever before. DNA verification adds a layer of transparency, empowering you to make confident purchasing decisions.

A Superior Science-Backed Probiotic That Delivers Results

As consumers, we deserve to know exactly what we are putting into our bodies, and DNA verification provides transparency and assurance that you are getting precisely the strains and dosages that appear on the product label.

Durable PROBIOTIC® features a blend of five patented, genetically verified probiotic strains cultivated in FDA-inspected US labs.

Since each of these five probiotic strains is genetically verified, you know you’re getting the clinically studied and proven effective probiotics listed on the label with all the benefits they’ve been shown in human clinical trials to provide, including:

• Balancing your gut microbiome for digestive comfort

• Promoting regularity while reducing bloating and gas

• Targeted support for cardiovascular health via the gut-heart axis

• Helping to lower total cholesterol and boosting “good” HDL cholesterol

• Boosting immune and respiratory function so you stay healthy 

To experience the proven benefits of clinically studied, DNA verified probiotic strains, click here to learn more about Durable PROBIOTIC.