Non-Lactic Acid Bacteria as Probiotics and their Functional Roles

Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer benefits to the host when administered in proper amounts. Strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are the most studied and commercially available probiotic bacteria. However, an increased interest in spore‐forming bacteria as probiotics in human and animal use has been demonstrated due to their resistance characteristic offered by spore production which provides the advantage of long storage periods at environmental temperatures. Among them, Bacillus spp. are some of the most studied and well‐characterized probiotics, and their use as human and animal probiotics is expanding rapidly. Other non‐lactic acid bacteria (LAB) reported as probiotics are the species of Propionibacterium , especially those isolated from dairy environments. Different mechanisms of action have been associated with the benefits caused by non‐LAB strains. This chapter assesses relevant findings concerning non‐LAB probiotics, especially spore‐forming bacteria and propionibacteria. The characteristics of these groups, their potential probiotic effect in human and animal health, as well as their mechanisms of action are discussed.