Composition and production method

Abstract

To provide a composition that contains bacterial powder and fatty oil, and in which caking of the bacterial powder is suppressed, a production method and use thereof.SOLUTION: A composition contains bacterial powder, fatty oil, at least one kind selected from the group consisting of fine powder and surfactant, a method for producing the composition, and use of at least one kind selected from the group consisting of fine powder and surfactant as an anti caking agent for bacterial powder in the composition containing fatty oil.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to compositions, methods of manufacture and uses. This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62916346, filed on October 17, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Bacteria have been reported to have beneficial effects on human health, such as the effect of improving constipation and diarrhea, the effect of improving lactose intolerance, the effect of preventing infection and suppressing allergies by improving immune function, the effect of preventing arteriosclerosis, and the effect of antitumor activity. For this reason, in recent years, products called oil drops, in which bacterial powder is suspended in fatty oil, have been sold. In the case of oil drops, it is desirable for the bacterial powder to be uniformly dispersed in the fatty oil, but the bacterial powder may settle and solidify at the bottom of the container, eventually forming a sediment (caking) that makes it difficult to redisperse the bacterial powder.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a supplement composition containing one or more species or strains of probiotic bacteria, oil, and anhydrous calcium hydrogen phosphate. It is described that the survival of the probiotic bacteria is maintained in this supplement composition. This supplement composition is a suspension in which oil is used as a dispersion medium. However, it is unclear whether caking of probiotic bacteria is suppressed in the supplement composition described in Patent Document 1. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0235271 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] According to the study by the present inventors, when only the carrier contained in the bacterial powder was dispersed in fatty oil as a dispersion medium, caking of the carrier did not occur, as shown in the Reference Example described later. From this result, the present inventors considered that the caking of the bacterial powder in the oil drop was caused by the bacterial body itself contained in the bacterial powder.

[0006] An objective of the present invention is to provide a composition comprising a bacterial powder and a fatty oil, in which caking of the bacterial powder is inhibited, a production method thereof and use thereof. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] Means for Solving the Problems The present inventors have conducted intensive research to solve the above problems, and as a result have discovered that the above problems can be solved by the following configuration, thereby completing the present invention.

[0008] [1] A composition comprising a bacterial powder, a fatty oil, and at least one selected from the group consisting of a micropowder and a surfactant. [2] The composition described in [1], which is a suspension. [3] The composition described in [1] or [2], wherein the bacterial powder contains at least one type selected from the group consisting of live lactic acid bacteria, killed lactic acid bacteria, live Bifidobacterium bacteria, and killed Bifidobacterium bacteria. [4] The composition described in any one of [1] to [3], wherein the micropowder contains at least one selected from the group consisting of microcrystalline cellulose and tricalcium phosphate. [5] The composition according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the surfactant comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of anionic surfactants and nonionic surfactants having an HLB value of less than 7. [6] The composition described in [5], wherein the anionic surfactant comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of metal stearates, and the nonionic surfactant has an HLB value of less than 7 comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of sucrose fatty acid esters having an HLB value of less than 7 and glycerin fatty acid esters having an HLB value of less than 7. [7] The composition described in any one of [1] to [6], wherein the bacterial powder is contained in an amount of 0.5 to 10% by mass relative to the total mass of the composition. [8] The composition according to any one of [1] to [7], further comprising an additive. [9] A method for producing a composition according to any one of [1] to [8], comprising mixing bacterial powder, fatty oil, and at least one selected from the group consisting of micropowder and surfactants in any order, or mixing a suspension containing bacterial powder and fatty oil with at least one selected from the group consisting of micropowder and surfactants.

[10] Use of at least one selected from the group consisting of micropowder and surfactants as an anti-caking agent for bacterial powder in a composition containing fatty oil. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, there can be provided a composition, a production method and a use thereof, which comprises a bacterial powder and a fatty oil and suppresses caking of the bacterial powder. In the composition of the present invention, caking of the bacterial powder is suppressed, and the bacterial powder is easily dispersed in the fatty oil serving as a dispersion medium. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Caking refers to the formation of a sediment that is difficult to redisperse in a suspension containing bacterial powder, as the bacterial powder precipitates and solidifies. In other words, caking refers to the formation of a sediment that is difficult to redisperse, and even if the bacterial powder precipitates and solidifies, if it is possible to redisperse it is not called caking. Numerical ranges expressed using "to" include the upper and lower limits of the range.

[0011] [Composition] The composition of the present invention contains a bacterial powder, a fatty oil, and at least one selected from the group consisting of a micropowder and a surfactant. The bacterial powder, fatty oil, micropowder and surfactant are described in detail below.

[0012] <Bacteria end> Cell powder is a general term for dried bacterial cells. Methods for drying the cells include, but are not limited to, freeze-drying or spray-drying. Freeze-drying is a method of drying at a low temperature of about -20°C to -160°C, usually under reduced pressure of about 1 to 60 Pa, using a freeze-drying apparatus, liquid nitrogen, or the like. Spray drying is a method in which a liquid is turned into droplets using an atomizer, and the droplets are sprayed into a relatively high-temperature heated air current to evaporate the water and dry the material. The bacterial powder may contain only bacterial cells, or may contain bacterial cells and components other than bacterial cells. Examples of the components other than bacterial cells include cryoprotectants, freeze-drying protectants, spray-drying protectants, and carriers. The bacterial powder may be dispersed in a triturating agent, excipient, or carrier that has a proven track record of use as a pharmaceutical ingredient or food and beverage ingredient. Examples of the triturating agent, excipient, or carrier include starch, starch hydrolysate, and dextrin. Examples of the starch include corn starch, potato starch, and tapioca starch.

[0013] The bacterial powder preferably contains at least one type selected from the group consisting of live lactic acid bacteria, killed lactic acid bacteria, live Bifidobacterium bacteria, and killed Bifidobacterium bacteria.

[0014] 《Lactic acid bacteria》 Lactic acid bacteria is a general term for bacteria belonging to the phylum Firmicutes in the bacterial domain that produce lactic acid through metabolism. As lactic acid bacteria, among bacteria belonging to the Firmicutes phylum that produce lactic acid through metabolism, those belonging to the Lactobacillales order of the Bacilli class are preferred, and those belonging to the Aerococcaceae family, Carnobacteriaceae family, Enterococcusaceae family, Streptococcusaceae family, Lactobacillaceae family, Leuconostocaceae family, or Streptococciaceae family are more preferred.

[0015] Examples of lactic acid bacteria belonging to the Lactobacillaceae family include Lactobacillus bacteria such as Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus delbrueckii, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, and Lactobacillus plantarum.

[0016] Lactic acid bacteria belonging to the family Enterococcus include bacteria of the genus Enterococcus, such as Enterococcus faecalis and E. faecium.

[0017] Examples of lactic acid bacteria belonging to the family Streptococcus include Lactococcus lactis, L. lactis subsp. cremoris, and other Lactococcus genus bacteria, and Streptococcus thermophilus, and other Streptococcus genus bacteria.

[0018] Lactic acid bacteria belonging to the family Leuconostocaceae include bacteria of the genus Leuconostoc, such as Leuconostoc mesenteroides and L. mesenteroides subsp. cremoris.

[0019] The lactic acid bacteria is preferably at least one species selected from the group consisting of the above-mentioned bacterial species. In addition, the lactic acid bacteria may be a bacterial strain whose genus or epithet has not yet been identified, or a new bacterial strain. The lactic acid bacteria can be used in either a live or dead state. The lactic acid bacteria can be in the form of frozen, freeze-dried, or spray-dried. Furthermore, the lactic acid bacteria can be in the form of only the lactic acid bacteria cells, or the lactic acid bacteria cells containing components other than the cells (e.g., a cryoprotectant, a freeze-drying protectant, a spray-drying protectant, etc.). The lactic acid bacteria can also be in the form of being dispersed in a diluting agent. Examples of the diluting agent that can be used include starches such as corn starch, potato starch, and tapioca starch, starch hydrolysates, dextrin, and maltodextrin.

[0020] (Lactobacillus gasseri) The Lactobacillus gasseri is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host. Specifically, the Lactobacillus gasseri is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host, either alone or in combination with other active ingredients. Specific examples of Lactobacillus gasseri include NITE BP-01669, ATCC 33323, DSM 20243, JCM 1131, SBT 2055, and OLL 2716. As Lactobacillus gasseri, NITE BP-01669 is particularly preferred. Lactobacillus gasseri may be used alone or in combination of two or more strains.

[0021] (Lactobacillus acidophilus) The Lactobacillus acidophilus is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host. Specifically, the Lactobacillus acidophilus is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host, either alone or in combination with other active ingredients. Specific examples of Lactobacillus acidophilus include NITE BP-01695, ATCC 4356, DSM 20079, JCM 1132, and YIT 0168 and YIT 0154. NITE BP-01695 is particularly preferred as Lactobacillus acidophilus. Lactobacillus acidophilus may be used alone or in combination of two or more strains.

[0022] (Lactobacillus helveticus) Lactobacillus helveticus is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host. Specifically, Lactobacillus helveticus is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host, either alone or in combination with other active ingredients. Specific examples of Lactobacillus helveticus include NITE BP-01671, ATCC 15009, DSM 20075, JCM 1120, and SBT 2171. As Lactobacillus helveticus, NITE BP-01671 is particularly preferred. As Lactobacillus helveticus, one strain may be used alone, or two or more strains may be used in combination.

[0023] (Lactobacillus paracasei) Lactobacillus paracasei is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host. Specifically, Lactobacillus paracasei is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host, either alone or in combination with other active ingredients. Specific examples of Lactobacillus paracasei include NITE BP-01633, ATCC 25302, DSM 5622, JCM 8130, ATCC 25599, DSM 20258, and JCM 1171. As Lactobacillus paracasei, NITE BP-01633 is particularly preferred. As Lactobacillus paracasei, one strain may be used alone, or two or more strains may be used in combination.

[0024] (Method of culturing lactic acid bacteria) Lactic acid bacteria cells can be easily obtained by culturing lactic acid bacteria. The culturing method is not particularly limited as long as it allows the lactic acid bacteria to grow. For example, a method commonly used for culturing lactic acid bacteria can be used as is or with appropriate modifications. The culture temperature is preferably 25 to 50°C, more preferably 35 to 42°C. The culture is preferably performed under anaerobic conditions. For example, the culture can be performed while aerating a non-oxidizing gas such as carbon dioxide gas. The culture may also be performed under microaerobic conditions such as liquid stationary culture. The culture may be performed, for example, until the lactic acid bacteria grow to a desired extent. The medium used for the culture is not particularly limited as long as the lactic acid bacteria can grow. As the medium, for example, a medium normally used for the culture of lactic acid bacteria can be used as it is or after appropriate modification. That is, as the carbon source, for example, sugars such as galactose, glucose, fructose, mannose, cellobiose, maltose, lactose, sucrose, trehalose, starch, starch hydrolysate, blackstrap molasses, etc. can be used depending on the assimilation. In addition, the lactic acid bacteria can be cultured in a medium containing milk protein such as casein, whey, or a decomposition product thereof. As the nitrogen source, for example, ammonium salts or nitrates such as ammonia, ammonium sulfate, ammonium chloride, and ammonium nitrate can be used. In addition, as the inorganic salt, for example, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, potassium phosphate, magnesium sulfate, calcium chloride, calcium nitrate, manganese chloride, ferrous sulfate, etc. can be used. In addition, organic components such as peptone, soybean flour, defatted soybean meal, meat extract, and yeast extract can be used. Furthermore, as a prepared medium, for example, MRS medium (de Man, Rogosa, and Sharpe medium) can be used.

[0025] Bifidobacterium The genus Bifidobacterium is the genus name for a group of bacteria that belong to the order Bifidobacteria in the class Actinobacteria of the phylum Actinobacteria in the domain Bacteria.

[0026] Examples of the Bifidobacterium bacteria include Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis, Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. suis, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. animalis, and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. Examples of Bifidobacterium species include B. animalis, B. bifidum, B. adolescentis, B. angulatum, B. dentium, B. pseudocatenulatum, B. pseudolongum, and B. thermophilum. As the Bifidobacterium bacterium, it is preferable to use at least one species selected from the group consisting of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis, Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. suis, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis, and Bifidobacterium bifidum. It is preferable to use at least one species selected from the group consisting of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis, Bifidobacterium breve, B. longum subsp. longum, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. suis, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis, and Bifidobacterium bifidum. It is more preferable to use at least one species selected from the group consisting of Bifidobacterium infantis, B. breve, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum, and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis. Bifidobacterium bacteria can be used alone or in combination of two or more species. When Bifidobacterium bacteria are used in combination, a combination of one or more subspecies of Bifidobacterium longum and Bifidobacterium breve is preferred.

[0027] As the Bifidobacterium bacterium, a bacterial strain whose species epithet has not been identified or a new bacterial strain may be used. The Bifidobacterium bacteria can be used in either a live or dead state. The Bifidobacterium bacteria can be used in the form of frozen, freeze-dried, or spray-dried. Furthermore, the Bifidobacterium bacteria can be in a state where only the Bifidobacterium bacteria are present, or the Bifidobacterium bacteria are present in a state where components other than the bacteria are present (e.g., a cryoprotectant, a freeze-drying protectant, a spray-drying protectant, etc.). The Bifidobacterium bacteria can also be in a state where they are dispersed in a diluting agent. As the diluting agent, starch such as corn starch, potato starch, tapioca starch, starch hydrolysate, dextrin, maltodextrin, etc. can be used.

[0028] (Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis) Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host. Specifically, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host, either alone or in combination with other active ingredients. Specific examples of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis include NITE BP-02623, ATCC 15697, ATCC 15702, DSM 20088, and JCM 1222. As Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis, NITE BP-02623 is particularly preferred. Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis may be used alone or in combination of two or more strains.

[0029] (Bifidobacterium breve) The Bifidobacterium breve is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host. Specifically, the Bifidobacterium breve is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host, either alone or in combination with other active ingredients. Specific examples of Bifidobacterium breve include NITE BP-02622, FERM BP-11175, ATCC 15700, ATCC 15698, DSM 20213, DSM 24706, DSM 13692, DSM 24732, DSM 24736, DSM16604, JCM 1192, NCC 2705, NCC 490, YIT 4010, YIT 4064, SBT 2928, UCC 2003, BBG-001, C50, R0070, and BG7. As Bifidobacterium breve, NITE BP-02622 is particularly preferred. Bifidobacterium breve may be used alone or in combination of two or more strains.

[0030] (Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum) Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host. Specifically, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host, either alone or in combination with other active ingredients. Specific examples of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum include NITE BP-02621, ATCC 15707, ATCC 25962, DSM 20219, and JCM 1217. As Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum, NITE BP-02621 is particularly preferred. Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum may be used alone or in combination of two or more strains.

[0031] (Bifidobacterium longum subsp. suis) Bifidobacterium longum subsp. suis is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host. Specifically, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. suis is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host, either alone or in combination with other active ingredients. Specific examples of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. suis include ATCC 27533, ATCC 27532, DSM 20211, and JCM 1269. Particularly preferred is ATCC 27533. Bifidobacterium longum subsp. suis may be used alone or in combination of two or more strains.

[0032] (Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis) Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host. Specifically, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis is not particularly limited as long as it exerts a beneficial effect on the host, either alone or in combination with other active ingredients. Specific examples of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis include DSM 15954 and FERM P-21998. As Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis, DSM 15954 is particularly preferred. Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis may be used alone or in combination of two or more strains.

[0033] In addition, instead of the strains specified by the exemplified strain numbers, those that are substantially identical to the strains stored in a culture collection by the strain numbers may be used. For example, in the case of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum, DSM 20219 or JCM 1217 may be used instead of ATCC 15707. As an indicator of whether or not the strains are substantially identical, for example, the identity of the 16S rRNA gene base sequence can be used. When the strains are substantially identical, the identity of the 16S rRNA gene base sequence is preferably 99.86% or more, more preferably 99.93% or more, and even more preferably 100%. When the strains are substantially identical, it is particularly preferable that the identity of the 16S rRNA gene base sequence is 100% and the microbiological properties such as assimilation are the same.

[0034] Also, instead of the strains specified by the exemplified strain numbers, derivative strains of the strains may be used. Derivative strains include strains artificially bred from preserved strains and strains naturally occurring from preserved strains. Breeding methods include modification by genetic engineering techniques and modification by mutation treatment. Mutation treatments include, for example, irradiation with X-rays, irradiation with ultraviolet rays, or treatment with a mutagen such as N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG), ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS), or methyl methanesulfonate (MMS). Strains naturally occurring from preserved strains include mutant strains naturally occurring during use of the preserved strains. Derivative strains may be constructed by modification of one strain, or by modification of two or more strains.

[0035] The Bifidobacterium bacteria may be commercially available or may be appropriately produced. Commercially available products include, for example, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum NITE BP-02621, Bifidobacterium breve NITE BP-02622, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis NITE BP-02623, and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12 (DSM 15954).

[0036] (Method of culturing Bifidobacterium) Bifidobacterium bacteria can be easily obtained by culturing the bacteria of the genus Bifidobacterium. The culturing method is not particularly limited as long as the bacteria of the genus Bifidobacterium can grow. As the culturing method, for example, a method usually used for culturing the bacteria of the genus Bifidobacterium can be used as it is or with appropriate modifications. The culture temperature is preferably 25 to 50°C, more preferably 35 to 42°C. The culture is preferably performed under anaerobic conditions. For example, the culture can be performed while aerating a non-oxidizing gas such as carbon dioxide gas. The culture may also be performed under microaerobic conditions such as liquid stationary culture. The culture may be performed, for example, until the bacteria of the genus Bifidobacterium grow to a desired extent. The medium used for the culture is not particularly limited as long as the Bifidobacterium bacteria can grow. As the medium, for example, a medium normally used for the culture of Bifidobacterium bacteria can be used as it is or after appropriate modification. That is, as the carbon source, for example, sugars such as galactose, glucose, fructose, mannose, cellobiose, maltose, lactose, sucrose, trehalose, starch, starch hydrolysate, blackstrap molasses, etc. can be used depending on the assimilation. In addition, the bacteria can be cultured in a medium containing milk protein such as casein, whey, or its decomposition products. As the nitrogen source, for example, ammonium salts or nitrates such as ammonia, ammonium sulfate, ammonium chloride, and ammonium nitrate can be used. In addition, as the inorganic salt, for example, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, potassium phosphate, magnesium sulfate, calcium chloride, calcium nitrate, manganese chloride, ferrous sulfate, etc. can be used. In addition, organic components such as peptone, soybean flour, defatted soybean meal, meat extract, and yeast extract may be used. Furthermore, as a prepared medium, for example, MRS medium (de Man, Rogosa, and Sharpe medium) can be used.

[0037] "Acronym of the Culture Collection" The acronyms for the culture collection are as follows: NITE:NITE Patent Microorganisms Depositary(NPMD), National Institute of Technology and Evaluation FERM:NITE Patent Microorganisms Depositary(NPMD), National Institute of Technology and Evaluation ATCC:American Type Culture Collection DSM:Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen GmbH(DSMZ) JCM:Japan Collection of Microorganisms,Riken BRC NCC: Nestle SA YIT:Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd. SBT:MEGMILK Snow Brand Co.,Ltd. OLL: Meiji Co., Ltd. R: LALLEMAND Inc.

[0038] Probiotics The bacterial powder may be live or dead, but if the bacterial powder is live, it can be expected to function as a "probiotic." Probiotics is a term proposed in opposition to antibiotics (antibiotics), and its origin is from probiosis, which means symbiosis. Currently, the widely accepted definition of probiotics is "live microorganisms that have a positive effect on the health of the host by improving the balance of intestinal flora."

[0039] {Bacteria powder content} The content of the bacterial powder in the composition of the present invention is preferably from 0.5 to 10% by mass, more preferably from 1 to 5% by mass, based on the total mass of the composition. When the content of the bacterial powder is 0.5% by mass or more based on the total mass of the composition, the advantageous effects of the composition containing the bacterial powder can be more fully exhibited. When the content of the bacterial powder is 10% by mass or less based on the total mass of the composition, the advantageous effect of the composition of the present invention containing the bacterial powder and the cost are better balanced.

[0040] <Fatty oil> The fatty oil in the present invention is preferably an oil that is liquid at least partially within the range of, for example, 0 to 40°C during the distribution of the composition of the present invention, and more preferably an oil that is liquid over the entire range of 0 to 40°C.

[0041] The fatty oil is preferably an edible oil. Examples of edible oils include hazelnut oil, olive oil, primrose oil, pumpkin oil, rice bran oil, soybean oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, safflower oil, coconut oil (including coffea palm oil, saw palmetto oil, etc.), palm oil, palm kernel oil, medium-chain triglyceride (MCT), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), linseed oil, perilla oil (shiso oil), rice germ oil, wheat germ oil, coconut oil, cottonseed oil, peanut oil, sesame oil, almond oil, cashew oil, macadamia nut oil, mongongo oil, pecan oil, pine nut oil, pistachio oil, walnut oil, gourd oil, and buffalo pumpkin oil. , pumpkin seed oil, watermelon seed oil, acai berry extract, blackcurrant oil, borage seed oil, evening primrose oil, amaranth oil, apricot oil, apple oil, argan oil, artichoke oil, avocado oil, babassu oil, moringa oil, cape chestnut oil, carob oil, coriander oil, dika oil, cabbage oil, grape seed oil, hemp oil, kapok fruit oil, lalemantia oil, marula oil, meadowfoam oil, mustard oil, okra oil (hibiscus oil), papaya oil, poppy seed oil, prune oil, quinoa oil, nigger seed oil, camellia oil, thistle oil, tomato oil, krill oil and borage oil.

[0042] As the fatty oil, at least one selected from the group consisting of olive oil, rice bran oil, soybean oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, and medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) is preferable, at least one selected from the group consisting of corn oil, sunflower oil, and medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) is more preferable, and medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) are particularly preferable.

[0043] The fatty oil is contained in an amount of preferably 90% by mass or more, more preferably 92% by mass or more, and even more preferably 95% by mass or more, based on the total mass of the composition.

[0044] <Micropowder and surfactant> In the compositions of the present invention, the micropowder and surfactant act as anti-caking agents. An anti-caking agent is an agent that has the effect of preventing or eliminating caking.

[0045] 《Fine powder》 The micropowder is an organic or inorganic microsized powder, with organic microsized powder being preferred.

[0046] An example of the fine-sized organic powder is microcrystalline cellulose, which is a high-purity cellulose obtained by hydrolyzing and purifying pulp with acid. The average particle size, D50, of the microcrystalline cellulose particles is preferably from 1 to 200 μm, more preferably from 5 to 100 μm. The average particle size (D50) of fine particles is the 50% volume particle size calculated from the volume distribution determined by a laser diffraction / scattering method.

[0047] Examples of inorganic micro-sized powders include tricalcium phosphate and fine silicon dioxide. Tricalcium phosphate is a salt of phosphoric acid and calcium represented by the chemical formula Ca3(PO4)2. Tricalcium phosphate has three polymorphs, and in the composition of the present invention, the low-temperature polymorph β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) is observed. Fine silicon dioxide is a fine particle of silica. As an inorganic micro-sized powder, tricalcium phosphate is particularly preferred. The average particle size, D50, of the tricalcium phosphate particles is preferably from 1 to 200 μm, more preferably from 1 to 50 μm.

[0048] The micropowder preferably contains at least one selected from the group consisting of microcrystalline cellulose and tricalcium phosphate. In the compositions of the present invention, the micropowder and surfactant are suitable for use as anti-caking agents for bacterial powders.

[0049] Surfactants The surfactant is preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of anionic surfactants and nonionic surfactants having an HLB value of less than 7.

[0050] (anionic surfactant) Examples of the anionic surfactant include carboxylate type anionic surfactants, linear alkylbenzene sodium sulfonate, sulfonic acid type anionic surfactants, sulfate ester type anionic surfactants, and phosphate ester type anionic surfactants. The anionic surfactant is preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of salts of fatty acids having 12 to 18 carbon atoms, more preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of metal stearates, further preferably an alkaline earth metal salt of stearic acid, and particularly preferably calcium stearate or magnesium stearate. The anionic surfactants can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0051] (Nonionic surfactants with HLB value less than 7) As the nonionic surfactant with an HLB value of less than 7, a fatty acid ester with an HLB value of less than 7 is preferable, at least one selected from the group consisting of sucrose fatty acid esters with an HLB value of less than 7 and glycerin fatty acid esters with an HLB value of less than 7 is more preferable, and at least one selected from the group consisting of sucrose fatty acid esters with an HLB value of less than 7 is even more preferable. The nonionic surfactants having an HLB value of less than 7 can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0052] <Content of micropowder and surfactant> The content of the micropowder and surfactant in the composition of the present invention, in total, of the micropowder and surfactant is preferably 0.01 to 10 mass%, more preferably 0.1 to 5 mass%, and even more preferably 0.5 to 2 mass%, based on the total mass of the composition.

[0053] Additives The composition of the present invention may further contain additives in addition to the above-mentioned components. Examples of the additives include antioxidants, excipients, binders, disintegrants, lubricants, stabilizers, flavorings, diluents, and the like. A preferred antioxidant is vitamin E. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin and is easily dissolved in the fatty oils in the composition.

[0054] <Uses of the composition> The composition of the present invention may be, for example, a supplement composition, a beverage composition, a food composition, a pharmaceutical composition, or a feed composition, but is preferably used as a supplement composition. When the composition of the present invention is used as a supplement composition, the composition of the present invention may be ingested as is, or the composition of the present invention may be added to a supplement, beverage, food, medicine, or feed and then ingested. When the composition of the present invention is added to a supplement, beverage, food, medicine, or feed, it is preferable to use the composition of the present invention by dropping a few drops into the beverage, food, medicine, or feed.

[0055] [Manufacturing method] The composition of the present invention can be produced by mixing, in any order, bacterial powder, fatty oil, and at least one selected from the group consisting of fine powder and surfactant. The composition of the present invention can also be produced by mixing at least one selected from the group consisting of fine powders and surfactants with a suspension containing bacterial powder and fatty oil. The mixing method is not particularly limited. For example, the bacterial powder, fatty oil, and at least one selected from the group consisting of fine powder and surfactant can be mixed by stirring. When the composition contains an additive, the order of mixing is not particularly limited. The additive may be included in the suspension containing the bacterial powder and the fatty oil, or may be added when mixing at least one selected from the group consisting of a micropowder and a surfactant.

[0056] [use] The micropowder and surfactants described above are suitable for use as anti-caking agents. EXAMPLES

[0057] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited to the examples described below. The present invention can be modified in various ways without departing from the gist of the invention.

[0058] [Preparation of bacterial powder] <Bacteria end 1> Bifidobacterium infantis NITE BP-02623 was inoculated into a medium containing protein, amino acids, and a sugar source, and cultured at 32-41°C for 5-24 hours, after which the bacteria (wet bacteria) were collected from the culture by centrifugation. The bacteria were freeze-dried for 18-96 hours using a freeze-dryer (Kyowa Vacuum Co., Ltd.), and the bacterial mass after freeze-drying was physically crushed to obtain freeze-dried powder. The freeze-dried powder was triturated with tapioca starch in a ratio of 1:3 (w / w) to obtain Bifidobacterium genus bacteria powder.

[0059] <Bacteria end 2> Bifidobacterium breve NITE BP-02622 was inoculated into a medium containing protein, amino acids, and a sugar source, and cultured at 32-41°C for 5-24 hours, after which the bacteria (wet bacteria) were collected from the culture by centrifugation. The bacteria were freeze-dried for 120 hours using a freeze-dryer (Kyowa Vacuum Co., Ltd.), and the bacterial mass after freeze-drying was physically crushed to obtain a freeze-dried powder. The freeze-dried powder was triturated with tapioca starch in a ratio of 1:3 (w / w) to obtain a Bifidobacterium genus bacteria powder.

[0060] <Bacteria end 3> Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum NITE BP-02621 was inoculated into a medium containing protein, amino acids, and a sugar source, and cultured at 32-41°C for 5-24 hours, after which the bacteria (wet bacteria) were collected from the culture by centrifugation. The bacteria were freeze-dried for 18-96 hours using a freeze-dryer (Kyowa Vacuum Co., Ltd.), and the bacterial mass after freeze-drying was physically crushed to obtain freeze-dried powder. The freeze-dried powder was triturated with corn starch in a ratio of 1:3 (w / w) to obtain Bifidobacterium genus bacteria powder.

[0061] <Bacteria end 4> Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum NITE BP-02621 was inoculated into a medium containing protein, amino acids, and a sugar source, and cultured at 32-41°C for 5-24 hours, after which the bacteria (wet bacteria) were collected from the culture by centrifugation. The bacteria were freeze-dried for 18-96 hours using a freeze-dryer (Kyowa Vacuum Co., Ltd.), and the bacterial mass after freeze-drying was physically crushed to obtain a freeze-dried powder. The freeze-dried powder was triturated with potato starch in a ratio of 1:3 (w / w) to obtain a Bifidobacterium genus bacteria powder.

[0062] <Bacteria end 5> Lactobacillus gasseri NITE BP-01669 was inoculated into a medium containing protein, amino acids, and a sugar source, and cultured at 32-41°C for 5-24 hours, after which the bacteria (wet bacteria) were collected from the culture by centrifugation. The bacteria were freeze-dried for 18-96 hours using a freeze-dryer (Kyowa Vacuum Co., Ltd.), and the bacterial mass after freeze-drying was physically crushed to obtain freeze-dried powder. The freeze-dried powder was triturated with corn starch in a ratio of 1:3 (w / w) to obtain lactic acid bacteria powder.

[0063] <Bacteria end 6> Lactobacillus acidophilus NITE BP-01695 was inoculated into a medium containing protein, amino acids, and a sugar source, and cultured at 32-41°C for 5-24 hours, after which the bacteria (wet bacteria) were collected from the culture by centrifugation. The bacteria were freeze-dried for 18-96 hours using a freeze-dryer (Kyowa Vacuum Co., Ltd.), and the bacterial mass after freeze-drying was physically crushed to obtain freeze-dried powder. The freeze-dried powder was triturated with corn starch in a ratio of 1:3 (w / w) to obtain lactic acid bacteria powder.

[0064] <Bacteria end 7> Lactobacillus paracasei NITE BP-01633 was inoculated into a medium containing protein, amino acids, and a sugar source, and cultured at 32-41°C for 5-24 hours, after which the bacteria (wet bacteria) were collected from the culture by centrifugation. The bacteria were freeze-dried for 18-96 hours using a freeze-dryer (Kyowa Vacuum Co., Ltd.), and the bacterial mass after freeze-drying was physically crushed to obtain freeze-dried powder. The freeze-dried powder was triturated with maltodextrin in a ratio of 1:3 (w / w) to obtain lactic acid bacteria powder.

[0065] <Bacteria end 8> Lactobacillus helveticus NITE BP-01671 was inoculated into a medium containing protein, amino acids, and sugar sources, and cultured at 32-41°C for 5-24 hours, after which the bacteria (wet bacteria) were collected from the culture by centrifugation. The concentrated bacteria liquid and starch hydrolysate were mixed in a ratio of 1:4 (solid content ratio, w / w), and then spray-dried using a spray dryer to obtain lactic acid bacteria powder.

[0066] <Bacteria end 9> Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis NITE BP-02623 was inoculated into a medium containing protein, amino acids, and sugar sources, and cultured at 32-41°C for 5-24 hours, after which the bacteria (wet bacteria) were collected from the culture by centrifugation. The bacteria were then freeze-dried for 18-96 hours using a freeze-dryer (Kyowa Vacuum Co., Ltd.), and the bacterial masses after freeze-drying were physically crushed to obtain freeze-dried powder.

[0067] [Method of evaluating dispersibility] 10 mL of the prepared composition was filled into a glass test tube and sealed with a rubber stopper. The test tube filled with the composition was left to stand in an incubator set at 5° C. for 30 days. After standing, the composition was mixed by inverting 20 times at a speed of about once per second, and the bottom of the test tube was observed. The dispersibility was evaluated on a five-level scale from A to E according to the following criteria. A: No bacterial powder or carrier remained on the bottom surface. B: Compared to A, a large amount of bacterial powder or carrier remained on the bottom. C: Compared to B, a large amount of bacterial powder or carrier remained on the bottom. D: Compared to C, a large amount of bacterial powder or carrier remained on the bottom. E...Suspension was difficult.

[0068] [Reference example] 2.5% by mass of tapioca starch (Reference Example 1) or maltodextrin (Reference Example 2) and 97.5% by mass of MCT oil (S9013) were mixed to prepare 100% by mass of the composition. The prepared compositions were evaluated for dispersibility according to the above-mentioned evaluation method. The evaluation results are shown in Table 1.

[0069] [Table 1]

[0070] In Reference Examples 1 and 2, in which no bacterial powder was added, the dispersibility of the carrier was excellent. This suggests that the caking of the bacterial powder in the oil drops is caused by the bacterial bodies themselves contained in the bacterial powder.

[0071] [Examples and Comparative Examples] <Example A1 to Example A22> Example A1 is a comparative example, and Examples A2 to A22 are working examples. The bacterial powder, micropowder or surfactant, and fatty oil were mixed in the ratios (unit: mass%) shown in Table 2 or Table 3, and a uniform dispersion was prepared using a magnetic stirrer. Among the surfactants, B-100D was added to the fatty oil and dissolved in a warm bath at 90°C, and after returning to room temperature, the bacterial powder was added and mixed uniformly. The prepared compositions were evaluated for dispersibility according to the above-mentioned evaluation method, and the evaluation results are shown in Tables 2 and 3.

[0072] [Table 2]

[0073] [Table 3]

[0074] Examples A2 to A22, in which a fine powder or a surfactant was blended, had superior dispersibility of bacterial powder compared to Example A1, in which these were not blended. In Examples A8 to A10, which contained an anionic surfactant (Ca stearate), the evaluation of dispersibility was all B, and the dispersibility of the bacterial powder was better than that of Example A1. Examples A11 to A16, which contained nonionic surfactants with an HLB value of less than 7 (B-100D, S-170), had better dispersibility of bacterial powder than Examples A17 to A22, which contained nonionic surfactants with an HLB value of 7 or more (S-770, S-1570).

[0075] <Example B1 to Example B9> Example B1 is a comparative example, and Examples B2 to B9 are working examples. The bacterial powder, micropowder or surfactant, and fatty oil were mixed in the ratios (unit: mass%) shown in Table 4, and a uniform dispersion was prepared using a magnetic stirrer. Among the surfactants, L-195 and POS-135 were added to the fatty oil and dissolved in a warm bath at 90°C, and after returning to room temperature, the bacterial powder was added and mixed uniformly. The prepared compositions were evaluated for dispersibility according to the above-mentioned evaluation method. The evaluation results are shown in Table 4.

[0076] [Table 4]

[0077] Examples B2 to B9, in which a fine powder or a surfactant was blended, had superior dispersibility of bacterial powder compared to Example B1, in which no fine powder or surfactant was blended. Example B2, which contained tricalcium phosphate as the micropowder, Example B3, which contained magnesium stearate as the anionic surfactant, Example B7, which contained B-370F (HLB value = 3) as the nonionic surfactant, and Example B9, which contained POS-135 (HLB value = 1) as the nonionic surfactant, were rated A for dispersibility, and the dispersibility of the bacterial powder was particularly excellent.

[0078] <Example C1 to Example C11> Example C1 is a comparative example, and Examples C2 to C11 are working examples. The bacterial powder, micropowder or surfactant, and fatty oil were mixed in the ratios (unit: mass%) shown in Table 5, and a uniform dispersion was prepared using a magnetic stirrer. Among the surfactants, B-100D was added to the fatty oil and dissolved in a warm bath at 90°C, and after returning to room temperature, the bacterial powder was added and mixed uniformly. The prepared compositions were evaluated for dispersibility according to the above-mentioned evaluation method. The evaluation results are shown in Table 5.

[0079] [Table 5]

[0080] Examples C2 to C11, in which a fine powder or a surfactant was blended, had superior dispersibility of bacterial powder compared to Example C1, in which these were not blended. Example C5, which contained tricalcium phosphate as the micropowder, Example C8, which contained B-100D (HLB value = 3) as the nonionic surfactant, and Example C11, which contained B-370F (HLB value = 3) as the nonionic surfactant, were rated A for dispersibility, and the dispersibility of the bacterial powder was particularly excellent.

[0081] <Example D1 to Example D12> Examples D1, D3, D5, D7, D9 and D11 are comparative examples, and Examples D2, D4, D6, D8, D10 and D12 are working examples. The bacterial powder, the fine powder or the surfactant, and the fatty oil were mixed in the ratios (unit: mass %) shown in Table 6, and a uniform dispersion was prepared using a magnetic stirrer. The prepared compositions were evaluated for dispersibility according to the above-mentioned evaluation method. The evaluation results are shown in Table 6.

[0082] [Table 6]

[0083] In Examples D2, D4, D6, D8, D10 and D12 in which calcium stearate was blended, the evaluation of dispersibility was A or B, and the dispersibility of the bacterial powder was good. No significant difference was observed in dispersibility when calcium stearate was added between the examples using freeze-dried bacterial powder (Examples D2, D4, D6, D8, and D10) and the example using spray-dried bacterial powder (Example D12).

[0084] <Example E1, Example E2> Example E1 is a comparative example and Example E2 is an embodiment. The bacterial powder, the fine powder or the surfactant, and the fatty oil were mixed in the ratios (unit: mass %) shown in Table 7, and a uniform dispersion was prepared using a magnetic stirrer. The prepared compositions were evaluated for dispersibility according to the above-mentioned evaluation method. The evaluation results are shown in Table 7.

[0085] [Table 7]

[0086] Example E2, which contained calcium stearate, was rated as B for dispersibility, and the dispersibility of the bacterial powder was good. Even when bacterial powder was used without mixing with a diluting agent, the dispersibility was improved by adding calcium stearate.

[0087] <Example F1, Example F2> Example F1 is a comparative example and Example F2 is an embodiment. A commercially available supplement composition (Baby's Probio Bifidus M1, Snow Brand Bean-Stalk Company) was used as is (Example F1) or with the addition of 1.0 mass % calcium stearate (Example F2) to prepare compositions for evaluation. The above supplement composition is a composition made from bifidobacterium powder (Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12: DSM 15954), sunflower oil, an antioxidant (vitamin E), and citric acid as raw materials. The prepared evaluation composition was used to evaluate dispersibility according to the evaluation method described above. The evaluation results are shown in Table 8.

[0088] [Table 8]

[0089] Even in commercially available supplement compositions, the addition of calcium stearate improved dispersibility.

[0090] The meanings of the terms in Tables 2 to 7 are as follows. (fungal powder) Bacteria powder 1: Bacteria powder 1 prepared as described above Bacteria powder 2: Bacteria powder 2 prepared as described above Bacteria powder 3: Bacteria powder 3 prepared as described above Bacteria powder 4: Bacteria powder 4 prepared as described above Bacteria powder 5: Bacteria powder 5 prepared as described above Bacteria powder 6: Bacteria powder 6 prepared as described above Bacteria powder 7: Bacteria powder 7 prepared as described above Bacteria powder 8: Bacteria powder 8 prepared as described above Bacteria powder 9: Bacteria powder 9 prepared as described above

[0091] (fatty oil) S9013 Medium chain triglyceride (MCT oil S9013, Taiyo Yushi Co., Ltd.)

[0092] (fine powder) Microcrystalline cellulose: Ceolas FD-F20 (manufactured by Asahi Kasei Corporation) Tricalcium phosphate: Tricalcium phosphate (manufactured by Taihei Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) Fine silicon dioxide: Silopage 720 (manufactured by Fuji Silysia Chemical)

[0093] (Surfactant) Calcium stearate: Calcium stearate (manufactured by Taihei Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) Magnesium stearate: Magnesium stearate (manufactured by San-Ei Gen F.F.I. Co., Ltd.) B-100D: Glycerin fatty acid ester (Ryoto Polyglycerol B-100D, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Foods Corporation; HLB value 3) S-170: Sucrose fatty acid ester (Ryoto Sugar Ester S-170, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Foods Corporation; HLB value 1) P-170: Sucrose fatty acid ester (Ryoto Sugar Ester P-170, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Foods Corporation; HLB value 1) O-170: Sucrose fatty acid ester (Ryoto Sugar Ester O-170, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Foods Corporation; HLB value 1) L-195: Sucrose fatty acid ester (Ryoto Sugar Ester L-195, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Foods Corporation; HLB value 1) B-370F: Sucrose fatty acid ester (Ryoto Sugar Ester B-370F, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Foods Corporation; HLB value 3) ER-190: Sucrose fatty acid ester (Ryoto Sugar Ester ER-190, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Foods Corporation; HLB value 1) POS-135: Sucrose fatty acid ester (Ryoto Sugar Ester POS-135, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Foods Corporation; HLB value 1) S-770: Sucrose fatty acid ester (Ryoto Sugar Ester S-770, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Foods Corporation; HLB value 7) S-1570 Sucrose fatty acid ester (Ryoto Sugar Ester S-1670, manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Foods Corporation; HLB value 16)

[0094] [Results explanation] In the examples, the effect of suppressing precipitation and solidification of the bacterial powder, as well as caking, was observed. Those containing a surfactant tended to show excellent effects. Furthermore, when comparing a composition containing bacterial powder with a composition containing only a carrier, it was confirmed that the composition containing bacterial powder tended to remain at the bottom in greater amounts. Therefore, there is a high need for compositions containing bacterial powder to eliminate precipitation, solidification, and caking. [Industrial Applicability]

[0095] The composition of the present invention can be used as a supplement composition by being ingested as is or by being added to food.

Claims

[Claim 1] A composition comprising a bacterial powder, a fatty oil, and at least one selected from the group consisting of a micropowder and a surfactant.

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