Bifidobacterium animalis

Figure 1. Microscopic image of Bifidobacterium.

Bifidobacterium animalis (or Bifidobacterium animalis subspecies animalis) is a gram-positive, anaerobic, rod-shaped bacterium of the Bifidobacterium genus which can be found in the large intestines of most mammals, including humans. Bifidobacterium animalis is commonly recognised as a "good bacteria" residing within the human intestinal tract and helps break down food, absorb nutrients, and fight off "bad bacteria" that might cause diseases.

Bifidobacterium animalis is frequently used in Probiotics as a dietary supplement which, when consumed, helps in improving or restoring gut flora. The species grows well in milk. As such, strains from these species have been isolated from milk cultures. Furthermore, its resistance to acid and oxidative stress renders them suitable to be incorporated in the formulation of fermented milk products such as yoghurt.

For nutritional values, refer to the Codex entry for Probiotics.