Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms that confer a health benefit to the host when administered in adequate amounts, therefore the presence of viable microorganisms is essential. Previous studies reported inconsistencies when comparing contents of probiotics marketed for use in animals with label claims. However, to the author's knowledge the variability of the same product between different lots has yet to be evaluated. The objective of this observational study was to evaluate the content and inter-lot variability of commercial equine probiotic products using culture dependent and independent techniques. Eleven probiotics marketed for use in horses were evaluated for microbial content using culture-dependent and independent techniques. The content was then compared to microorganisms listed and quantities on the label of the probiotic. Statistical analyses were performed using a Kruskal-Wallis test. None of the 11 probiotics met their label claim. Nine of the 11 did not have statistically significant inter-lot variability. Several products lacked microorganisms listed on the label based on both culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analyses.
Keywords: Equine; Horse; Probiotic.
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