Non dairy probiotic beverages

The beneficial effects of food with added live microbes (probiotics) on human health are being increasingly promoted by health professionals. Probiotic products available in the markets today, are usually in the form of fermented milks and yoghurts; however, with an increase in the consumer vegetarianism throughout the developed countries, there is also a demand for the vegetarian probiotic products. And, owing to health considerations, from the perspective of cholesterol in dairy products for the developed countries, and economic reasons for the developing countries, alternative raw materials for probiotics need to be searched. Considering the above mentioned facts cereals, legumes, fruits and vegetables may be potential substrates, where the healthy probiotic bacteria will make their mark, both in the developing and the developed countries. This review aims at highlighting the research done on probiotic beverages from non dairy sources. These non dairy probiotic beverages can serve as a healthy alternative for dairy probiotics and also favor consumption by lactose intolerant consumers.