Ingredient Repository · Ingredient

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Ingredient

Streptococcus thermophilus

A friendly probiotic strain found in yoghurt that helps break down dairy, soothes digestion, and protects gut lining.

What it is

Streptococcus thermophilus is a well-known friendly bacterium widely used in making yoghurt and fermented (cultured) foods. It naturally produces lactase, an enzyme that breaks down milk sugar (lactose).

In Velobiotics products, each S. thermophilus bacterium is protected by a micro-shield. This ensures it passes through stomach acid safely to support smooth digestion in your intestines.

Also known as: S. thermophilus, Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophilus

Key benefits

  • Produces lactase enzymes to make milk and dairy easier to digest.
  • Creates protective substances that soothe and cushion your gut lining.
  • Works together with Lactobacillus strains to keep gut acidity at a healthy level.
  • Eases occasional stomach cramps, gas, and digestive discomfort.

Amplified by probiotics

Streptococcus thermophilus is a team player in probiotic blends. It uses up oxygen in the gut and releases natural growth factors that help partner strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium flourish. In return, partner bacteria break down proteins into food for S. thermophilus. Together, they lower gut acidity, which helps free up minerals like calcium for better absorption while crowding out unwanted microbes.

Typical dose

1–10 billion live bacteria (CFU) a day

The evidence

Evidence: strong

Multiple clinical studies and official EFSA health evaluations validate that Streptococcus thermophilus improves lactose digestion in individuals with lactose poor absorption. Clinical research also documents its benefits in reducing acute diarrhoea duration and supporting gut barrier integrity. (Rueangsri N 2026, Front Nutr) (Thriene K 2026, J Nutr) (Zhang WJ 2026, Phytomedicine)

  1. Rueangsri N, et al. The effects of dairy products containing Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus on bone turnover biomarkers and bone mineral density: a pilot trial study. Front Nutr. 2026;13:1785177 PubMed ↗
  2. Thriene K, et al. Impact of Yogurt and Rolled Oats Consumption on the Gut Microbiome: A Randomized Crossover Study Displaying Individual Responses and General Resilience. J Nutr. 2026;156:101408 PubMed ↗
  3. Zhang WJ, et al. Gut microbiome-metabolomics integration explores the adjunctive effect of Naoxintong capsule on atorvastatin in ameliorating hyperlipidemia: A randomized controlled pilot study. Phytomedicine. 2026;151:157799 PubMed ↗

Safety & who should check first

Streptococcus thermophilus has an outstanding safety record and official safety approval in Europe and the USA. It is gentle and well tolerated across all consumer demographics. Speak to your doctor first if you have a severely impaired immune system.