This study aimed at evaluating the influence of compatible solutes such as ectoine and
hydroxyectoine (HOE), on bacterial cell viability during freeze-drying and storage (at 4
C
and 25
C), in comparison to the well-established use of trehalose. Three strains, namely
Limosilactobacillus fermentum, Levilactobacillus brevis SP-48, and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019
were used as models demonstrating that the highest survival rate during freeze drying was
observed for cells protected with HOE. Although trehalose was more effective during lyophilization,
interestingly the combination of trehalose and HOE most efficiently preserved
long-term cell viability (viability loss < 0.5 log units after 6months of storage). Finally, the
ability of HOE to contribute to strain resistance in simulated gastrointestinal juices was evaluated
and the latter protected all the strains tested more efficiently than all the other solutes,
in particular the viability was improved from 58%, 87.5%, and 94% when cells were
dried with saline solution to 88%, 98.3%, and 98% when lyophilized with HOE for L. fermentum,
L. brevis, and B. lactis, respectively. In conclusion, the addition of HOE to trehalose
improves the stability of probiotics during storage and enhances the survivability in simulated
gastrointestinal tract conditions.

Title

Drying technology

Publisher

Taylor & Francis

Publisher Country

United States of America

Publication Type

Prtinted only

Volume

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Year

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Pages

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