As the immune health category continues to grow, Kaneka Probiotics (Houston, TX) is uniquely positioned to meet the clinically studied solutions across life stages, according to the company.

It has three ingredients for immune health consisting of AB21 for children and adults, KAPB Mature Immune Defense for older adults and DR7 with data in upper respiratory tract health. Each ingredient is supported by research that underscores their roles in immune support across all life stages.

Jordi Riera, chief business officer at Kaneka Probiotics elaborated on how these three ingredients can support immune health:

L. plantarum DR7

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum DR7 has been studied in multiple randomized, placebo-controlled trials, showing benefits for both immune and upper respiratory tract health. Clinical research has demonstrated its ability to support upper respiratory tract health and favorably modulate immune biomarkers, including reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines and improvements in immune-related gene expression. DR7 also works along the gut-brain axis, with published studies linking it to healthy stress responses and cognitive measures in adults. Its once-daily dosing and proven stability make it a versatile choice for manufacturers seeking a clinically validated probiotic for year-round immune support.

AB21

AB21 is a blend of four probiotic strain: P. acidilactici KABP-021, L. plantarum KABP-023, L. plantarum KABP-023, and L. plantarum KABP-033 with a unique multi-mechanistic approach to immune health. In clinical research, AB21 has been shown to stimulate key immune pathways and increase the production of postbiotic compounds such as short-chain fatty acids, which help strengthen the gut barrier and regulate immune responses. One published randomized, quadruple-blind study in 300 adults demonstrated that AB21 significantly improved immune function outcomes, including increased levels of immune-related antibodies and reduced duration of immune-related symptoms. Additionally, AB21 has been studied in children, further supporting its use across multiple age groups.

KAPB Mature Immune Defense

KAPB Mature Immune Dense was developed to address the unique needs of older adults, whose gut and immune function naturally change with age. Its two proprietary strains, Lactobacillus plantarum KABP-031 and KABP-032, have been studied in multiple clinical trials demonstrating meaningful benefits for this population. In elderly adults, supplementation with these strains has been shown to help support bowel regularity and nutritional status, while also enhancing immune responses, including increases in influenza-specific antibodies. Most recently, a newly published study in this demographic reported improvements in stool consistency and reductions in perceived stress, further reinforcing their role in supporting overall well-being. In addition, scientific evidence suggests that these strains may help modulate inflammatory pathways by influencing key immune markers, including increases in anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-10. Together, this evidence positions KABP Mature Immune Defense as a clinically supported solution for maintaining gut and immune balance in healthy aging.

“At Kaneka Probiotics, we are committed to advancing the science of immune health. By pairing clinically validated strains with robust technical support, we enable our partners to bring differentiated, evidence-based products to market, helping consumers at every life stage maintain a healthy, resilient immune system,” Riera said.

For more information, visit www.kanekaprobiotics.com.

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