Class: Probiotic
Format: Multiple formats
B. lactis, BB-12®

Bifidobacterium animalis, subs. lactis, BB-12™ (shortened to BB-12™) is backed by multiple studies, particularly for its role in supporting healthy gastrointestinal and immune systems. It’s described in around 400 scientific publications and supported by more than 200 publications describing human studies. BB-12™ has been 100% genome stable for decades and has been used without safety issues by people of all ages, from infants to seniors. It’s listed in ESPGHAN’s position paper on gut microbiota and modification recommendations for children1. The World Gastroenterology Organization’s Guidelines for Probiotics and Prebiotics also lists it for use in infants, children and adults2
Product features, details and benefits
- The world’s most documented Bifidobacterium.
- Clinically studied across life stages.
- Well known to support gut and immune health.
- Also shown to support skin and respiratory health.
- Available in infant grade.
The BB-12™ strain (DSM 15954) was discovered in the Chr. Hansen collection of dairy cultures. It has been used worldwide in infant formula, dietary supplements and fermented milk products like yogurt since 1986.
Due to the explosive growth of knowledge about bacteria, BB-12™ has been moved into various taxonomical classifications over the years. While the bacteria’s taxonomical name has changed slightly, the actual DNA and name BB-12™ have remained constant.
BB-12™ is available in infant grade BB-12™ is acid and bile stable.
It’s produced in a certified GMP Facility, FSSC22000 certified incl. ISO22000.
The BB-12™ logo can be used on packaging subject to agreement. BB-12™ is a trademark of Chr. Hansen A/S, part of Novonesis Group.
This product contains microbials. While microbial products are safe to use in consumer applications, they must be handled correctly in production environments to ensure that workers do not inhale organic dust and bioaerosols.
Please follow the precautionary handling recommendations below:
• Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray
• Avoid contact with eyes, skin, or clothing
• In case of inadequate ventilation wear respiratory protection
• IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing
• Store in a dry place. Store in a closed container
• Dispose of contents/containers in accordance with local regulations
More information about safe-handling of microbial products is available on request.
For recommendations on how to safely handle the microbial product, please visit the guide.
Health benefits
The popular B. lactis, BB-12™ has been studied extensively alone and in combination with other probiotics.
Below are results from some of the research:
ADULTS
Bowel movements: For adults3 , 4, 5and seniors6 associated with:
- More regular bowel movements
- Softer and more frequent bowel movements
- Overall regular bowel function
- Helps reduce duration of occasional loose stools
- Helps reduce occasional flatulence
Immune health: Associated with benefits for the immune function7.
INFANTS AND CHILDREN
Regular bowel movements: in infants, toddlers and children8, the BB-12™ strain has been demonstrated to:
- Alleviate digestive challenges and discomfort
- Improve defecation frequency and difficulty, abdominal discomfort and stool characteristics
Infant comfort: In infants9, 10 the BB-12™ probiotic has been demonstrated to:
- Soothe excessive crying and fussing9, 10
- Reduce the number of crying episodes9, 10
- Increase sleep duration10
- Improve quality of life for parents and care takers10
Infant skin health: In combination with the LGG™ strain, the BB-12™ probiotic has been associated with normal, healthy-looking skin11.
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Disclaimer
This content is intended exclusively for business-to-business purposes for a professional audience only and is not intended to target consumers.