Composition and method for producing the same, as well as composition for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria and method for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria

Abstract

To provide a composition and a method for producing the same, as well as a composition for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria and a method for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria, even when lactic acid bacteria are combined with at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols. [Solution] A composition characterized by containing lactic acid bacteria, at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols, and a basic amino acid or a neutral amino acid.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a composition and a method for producing the same, as well as a composition for suppressing aggregation of lactic acid bacteria and a method for suppressing aggregation of lactic acid bacteria.

Background Art

[0002] Lactic acid bacteria, which are bacteria that produce lactic acid, are known to have effects such as maintaining the homeostasis of the intestinal environment, and in recent years, the demand for them has been increasing. In addition, carotenoids or polyphenols, which are antioxidants, are also known to have useful functions in living organisms and have been attracting attention in recent years.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a composition containing lactic acid bacteria and polyphenols, which is effective for improving liver function, reducing blood alcohol, and antioxidant activity in the body.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The present inventors have found that when at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols is blended in a composition containing lactic acid bacteria, the lactic acid bacteria aggregate, and problems such as the quantification of the lactic acid bacteria occur. An object of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned problems in the prior art and achieve the following object. That is, the present invention aims to provide a composition and a method for producing the same, as well as a composition for suppressing aggregation of lactic acid bacteria and a method for suppressing aggregation of lactic acid bacteria, which can suppress the aggregation of the lactic acid bacteria even when at least one selected from lactic acid bacteria, carotenoids, and polyphenols is blended.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] As a result of diligent research conducted by the present inventors to achieve the above objective, they have found that it is possible to provide a composition and a method for producing the same, as well as a composition for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria and a method for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria, even when lactic acid bacteria are combined with at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols.

[0007] The present invention is based on the aforementioned findings by the inventors, and the means for solving the aforementioned problems are as follows: <1> The composition is characterized by containing lactic acid bacteria, at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols, and a basic amino acid or a neutral amino acid. <2> The lactic acid bacteria are lactic acid bacteria belonging to the genera Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, or Bifidobacterium. <1> The composition is as described above. <3> The lactic acid bacteria are Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, or Lactobacillus brevis. <2> The composition is as described above. <4> The carotenoid is carotene or xanthophyll. <1> The composition is as described above. <5> The carotene is crocetin, β-carotene, or lycopene. The xanthophyll is lutein or astaxanthin, <4> The composition is as described above. <6> The polyphenol is anthocyanin or catechin, <1> The composition is as described above. <7> The composition is an oral composition. <1> The composition is as described above. <8> The oral composition is a soft capsule or a tablet. <7> The composition is as described above. <9> This is a composition for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria, characterized by comprising lactic acid bacteria, at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols, and a basic amino acid or a neutral amino acid. <10> This method for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria is characterized by comprising the step of mixing lactic acid bacteria with at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols, and a basic amino acid or a neutral amino acid. <11> The method for producing a composition is characterized by comprising the step of mixing lactic acid bacteria, at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols, and a basic amino acid or a neutral amino acid. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a composition and a method for producing the same, as well as a composition for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria and a method for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria, even when lactic acid bacteria are combined with at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] (composition) The composition comprises lactic acid bacteria, at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols, and a basic amino acid or a neutral amino acid, and may further contain other components.

[0010] -Lactic acid bacteria- The lactic acid bacteria mentioned above are not particularly limited as long as they are bacteria that produce lactic acid from sugars through fermentation, and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, for example, Lactobacillus ( Lactobacillus ) genus, Lactococcus ( Lactococcus ) genus, or Bifidobacterium ( Bifidobacterium ) genus, Leuconostoc ( Leuconostoc ) genus, Pediococcus ( Pediococcus ) genus, Enterococcus ( Enterococcus ) genus, Streptococcus ( Streptococcus ) genus, Weissera ( Weissella Examples include lactic acid bacteria belonging to the genus (e.g., *Lactobacillus*). These may be used individually or in combination of two or more species. Among these, lactic acid bacteria belonging to the genera Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, Bifidobacterium, or Enterococcus are preferred, lactic acid bacteria belonging to the genera Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, or Bifidobacterium are preferred, lactic acid bacteria belonging to the genera Lactobacillus or Lactococcus are even more preferred, and lactic acid bacteria belonging to the genera Lactobacillus are particularly preferred.

[0011] There are no particular restrictions on the Lactobacillus species of lactic acid bacteria mentioned above, and they can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. Examples include Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus amyloborus, Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus zeae, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus galinarum, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus delbrucki subspecies bulgaricus, and Lactobacillus johnsonii. Among these, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus fermentum, or Lactobacillus plantarum are preferred, Lactobacillus gasseri or Lactobacillus acidophilus are more preferred, and Lactobacillus gasseri strain CP2305 (accession number: FERM BP-11331) or Lactobacillus acidophilus strain L-92 (accession number: FERM BP-4981) are even more preferred.

[0012] There are no particular restrictions on the Lactococcus genus lactic acid bacteria mentioned above, and they can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples include Lactococcus lactis, Lactococcus plantarum, and Lactococcus raffinolactis.

[0013] As the lactic acid bacteria belonging to the genus Bifidobacterium, there are no particular restrictions, and they can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, Bifidobacterium infantis, Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium pseudolongum, Bifidobacterium animalis, Bifidobacterium adolescentis, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium catenulatum, Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum, Bifidobacterium magnum, etc. can be mentioned.

[0014] As the lactic acid bacteria belonging to the genus Leuconostoc, there are no particular restrictions, and they can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, Leuconostoc lactis, etc. can be mentioned.

[0015] As the lactic acid bacteria belonging to the genus Pediococcus, there are no particular restrictions, and they can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, Pediococcus pentosaceus, Pediococcus damnosus, etc. can be mentioned.

[0016] As the lactic acid bacteria belonging to the genus Enterococcus, there are no particular restrictions, and they can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus hirae, Enterococcus faecium, etc. can be mentioned. Among these, Enterococcus faecalis is preferred.

[0017] As the lactic acid bacteria belonging to the genus Streptococcus, there are no particular restrictions, and they can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, Streptococcus thermophilus, etc. can be mentioned.

[0018] There are no particular restrictions on the lactic acid bacteria of the genus Weissella mentioned above, and they can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. Examples include Weissella tibaria, Weissella confuza, Weissella halotorens, Weissella helenica, Weissella candrelli, Weissella kimchii, Weissella koreensis, Weissella minor, Weissella paramesenteroides, Weissella soli, Weissella tyrandensis, and Weissella viridesens.

[0019] There are no particular restrictions on the form of the lactic acid bacteria, and they can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, but powder (lactic acid bacteria powder) is preferred. Among these, spray-dried powder or freeze-dried powder is preferred, and spray-dried powder is more preferred.

[0020] The amount of lactic acid bacteria in 100 parts by mass of the composition is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, but is preferably 0.01 parts by mass or more and 40 parts by mass or less, more preferably 0.1 parts by mass or more and 30 parts by mass or less, even more preferably 1 part by mass or more and 20 parts by mass or less, particularly preferably 5 parts by mass or more and 15 parts by mass or less, and most preferably 7 parts by mass or more and 13 parts by mass or less.

[0021] -At least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols- The at least one selected from the carotenoids and polyphenols means that it contains at least one of either a carotenoid or a polyphenol, and may also contain both carotenoids and polyphenols. In the above composition, the carotenoid or polyphenol is an agglutinating component that causes the lactic acid bacteria to agglutinate.

[0022] There are no particular restrictions on the carotenoids mentioned above, and they can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples include carotenes and xanthophylls. These may be used individually or in combination of two or more.

[0023] There are no particular restrictions on the carotenes mentioned above, and they can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples include crocetin, α-carotene, β-carotene, γ-carotene, δ-carotene, and lycopene. Among these, crocetin, β-carotene, or lycopene are preferred, with crocetin being more preferred. The aforementioned crocetin is found in gardenia pigment, among other things.

[0024] The gardenia pigment mentioned above can be a commercially available product. Examples of commercially available gardenia pigments include gardenia yellow pigment preparations (Clovit® P, Riken Vitamin Co., Ltd.).

[0025] There are no particular restrictions on the xanthophyll mentioned above, and it can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples include lutein, astaxanthin, zeaxanthin, canthaxanthin, fucoxanthin, antheraxanthin, and violaxanthin. Among these, lutein or astaxanthin is preferred, and lutein is more preferred. The aforementioned lutein is found in marigold pigment, among other things.

[0026] The aforementioned marigold pigment can be a commercially available product. Examples of commercially available marigold pigments include Lyc-O-Lutein 20% (LycoRed Co., Ltd.) and Flora GLO Lutein 20% Suspension SAF (DSM Co., Ltd.).

[0027] There are no particular restrictions on the polyphenols mentioned above, and they can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples include anthocyanins, catechins, proanthocyanidins, tannins, rutin, and isoflavones. These may be used individually or in combination of two or more. Among these, anthocyanins or catechins are preferred, with anthocyanins being more preferred. The aforementioned anthocyanins are found in bilberry extract, among other things. The bilberry extract mentioned above can be a commercially available product. Examples of commercially available bilberry extracts include Bilberry Extract-25C (Ningbo Green-Health Pharmaceutical), Bilberry Extract-25 (Ningbo Green-Health Pharmaceutical), and Bilberry Licorice Extract ET (Indena Japan Co., Ltd.).

[0028] The amount of at least one selected from the carotenoids and polyphenols in 100 parts by mass of the composition is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, but is preferably 0.01 parts by mass or more and 40 parts by mass or less, more preferably 0.1 parts by mass or more and 30 parts by mass or less, even more preferably 1 part by mass or more and 20 parts by mass or less, particularly preferably 5 parts by mass or more and 15 parts by mass or less, and most preferably 5 parts by mass or more and 13 parts by mass or less.

[0029] -Basic amino acids or neutral amino acids- The basic amino acid or neutral amino acid mentioned above means that it includes at least one of either a basic amino acid or a neutral amino acid, and may also include both basic amino acids and neutral amino acids. Among these, it is preferable to include basic amino acids in order to efficiently suppress the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria.

[0030] The basic amino acids mentioned above are not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples include arginine, lysine, and histidine. These may be used individually or in combination of two or more. Among these, arginine is preferred because it efficiently suppresses the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria.

[0031] There are no particular restrictions on the neutral amino acids mentioned above, and they can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples include glycine, alanine, α-aminobutyric acid, valine, norvaline, leucine, isoleucine, norleucine, homonorleucine, tyrosine, tryptophan, phenylalanine, metatyrosine, thyronine, dopa, thyroxine, serine, threonine, homoserine, cysteine, methionine, homocysteine, taurine, proline, hydroxyproline, pipecolic acid, asparagine, glutamine, theanine, and citrulline. These may be used individually or in combination of two or more. Among these, leucine or valine is preferred, with leucine being more preferred, in terms of efficiently suppressing the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria.

[0032] Basic amino acids or neutral amino acids can be purchased commercially. There are no particular restrictions on commercially available basic or neutral amino acids, as long as they comply with the Japanese Food Additives Standards, and they can be appropriately selected according to the purpose.

[0033] The amount of the basic amino acid or neutral amino acid in 100 parts by mass of the composition is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. However, in terms of efficiently suppressing the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria, 0.001 parts by mass or more and 30 parts by mass or less is preferred, 0.01 parts by mass or more and 20 parts by mass or less is more preferred, 0.01 parts by mass or more and 10 parts by mass or less is even more preferred, 0.1 parts by mass or more and 10 parts by mass or less is even more preferred, 0.5 parts by mass or more and 9 parts by mass or less is particularly preferred, and 1 part by mass or more and 8 parts by mass or less is most preferred.

[0034] -Other ingredients- The aforementioned other components are not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and examples include oily components and emulsifiers.

[0035] There are no particular restrictions on the oily component, and it can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples include vegetable oils and waxes. These may be used individually or in combination of two or more.

[0036] There are no particular restrictions on the aforementioned vegetable oils, and they can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples include olive oil, safflower oil, soybean oil, rapeseed oil, sunflower oil, fatty acids, and fatty acid triglycerides. Among these, olive oil or safflower oil is preferred, with olive oil being more preferred.

[0037] The olive oil mentioned above can be a commercially available product. Examples of commercially available olive oils include Refined Olive Oil (MORENO SA), Refined Olive Oil (DCOOP SCA), Olive Pomace Oil (F.FAIGES SL), and Mirasol Sansa Olive Oil (SOVENA). The safflower oil mentioned above can be a commercially available product. Examples of commercially available safflower oil include safflower salad oil (Nisshin Oillio Group Ltd.) and other products that meet the JAS standard for edible safflower oil.

[0038] There are no particular restrictions on the waxes mentioned above, and they can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples include beeswax, carnauba wax, rice wax, and lanolin. These may be used individually or in combination of two or more. Among these, beeswax is preferred.

[0039] The beeswax mentioned above can be a commercially available product. Examples of commercially available beeswax products include refined beeswax AR-100 (Toa Chemical Industries, Ltd.), food additive beeswax (Miki Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.), beeswax FP (Nippon Wax Co., Ltd.), and beeswax FPT (Nippon Wax Co., Ltd.).

[0040] The emulsifier is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples include distilled monoglycerides, reactive monoglycerides, polyglycerin fatty acid esters such as diglycerin fatty acid esters and triglycerin fatty acid esters, monoglycerin fatty acid esters, organic acid monoglycerides, sorbitan fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, propylene glycol fatty acid esters, and lecithin. These may be used individually or in combination of two or more. Among these, polyglycerol fatty acid esters and lecithin are preferred.

[0041] The aforementioned polyglycerol fatty acid ester can be a commercially available product. Examples of commercially available polyglycerin fatty acid esters include Poem DL-100, Poem DM-100, Poem DM-100A, Poem DO-100V, Poem J-0081HV, Poem J-0021, Poem J-0381V, Poem PR-300, Poem PR-100, and Poem PR-100, all manufactured by Riken Vitamin Co., Ltd. These may be used individually or in combination of two or more types. The lecithin mentioned above can be a commercially available product. Examples of commercially available lecithin products include Lesion P and Lesion LP1 from Riken Vitamin Co., Ltd., and SLP-Paste, SLP-Paste NG, and SLP-Paste NGS from Tsuji Oil Co., Ltd. These may be used individually or in combination of two or more types.

[0042] The aforementioned composition is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, but an oral composition is preferred. The form of the oral composition is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, but soft capsules or tablets are preferred, and soft capsules are more preferred.

[0043] The composition comprises lactic acid bacteria, at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols, and a basic amino acid or a neutral amino acid. By adding at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols to the lactic acid bacteria, the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria can be suppressed by the basic amino acid or neutral amino acid, and the composition can be used as a composition for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria.

[0044] (Composition for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria) The lactic acid bacteria aggregation inhibitory composition comprises lactic acid bacteria, at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols, and a basic amino acid or a neutral amino acid, and may further contain other components. The composition for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria is as described in "(Composition)" above.

[0045] (Method for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria) The method for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria includes a mixing step and may further include other steps. The lactic acid bacteria are as described in the "(Composition)" section above.

[0046] The mixing step involves mixing lactic acid bacteria with at least one substance selected from carotenoids and polyphenols, and a basic amino acid or a neutral amino acid. The lactic acid bacteria, at least one selected from the carotenoids and polyphenols, and the basic amino acid or neutral amino acid are as described in "(Composition)" above.

[0047] There are no particular restrictions on the mixing method, and it can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Specifically, examples include a method in which the oily component and other components such as emulsifiers are heated, mixed, and dissolved, then cooled to 40°C or below, the basic amino acid or neutral amino acid is mixed in, the lactic acid bacteria are mixed in, and then at least one selected from the carotenoids and polyphenols is mixed in.

[0048] The aforementioned other processes are not particularly limited and can be selected as appropriate depending on the purpose, for example, a grinding process.

[0049] (Method of manufacturing the composition) The method for producing the composition includes a mixing step and may further include other steps. The aforementioned composition is as described in "(Composition)" above. The mixing step and other steps are as described above in "(Method for inhibiting aggregation of lactic acid bacteria)". [Examples]

[0050] The following describes embodiments of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited in any way to these embodiments.

[0051] <Composition Preparation 1> (Test Example 1-1) The vegetable oil (olive oil), emulsifiers (polyglycerin fatty acid ester and lecithin), and beeswax were heated and mixed at around 70°C in the proportions shown in Table 1 to dissolve them.

[0052] After cooling to below 40°C, sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacterial cells (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was further mixed in the proportions shown in Table 1. The resulting composition was filled into glass bottles (standard bottle No. 2, AS ONE Corporation) in approximately 15g portions and stored at 60°C for two weeks. After being stored at 60°C for two weeks, it was then stored at room temperature.

[0053] (Test Example 1-2) The compositions were prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 1-1, except that vegetable oil, emulsifier, and beeswax were heated and mixed and dissolved in the proportions shown in Table 1, sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder was added, and then gardenia yellow pigment preparation (Crovit® P, Riken Vitamin Co., Ltd.) was added in the proportions shown in Table 1.

[0054] (Test Examples 1-3) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 1-1, except that vegetable oil, emulsifier, and beeswax were heated and mixed in the proportions shown in Table 1 to dissolve them, cooled to below 40°C, mixed with arginine in the proportions shown in Table 1, then mixed with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder, and finally mixed with gardenia yellow pigment preparation (Clovit® P, Riken Vitamin Co., Ltd.) in the proportions shown in Table 1.

[0055] (Test examples 1-4 to 1-8) The compositions were prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-3, except that arginine was mixed in with the proportions shown in Table 1.

[0056] <Lactic acid bacteria aggregation inhibitory effect 1> The compositions prepared and stored in Test Examples 1-1 to 1-8 were warmed to approximately 50°C, and about 0.1 to 0.2 g was taken into a 50 mL conical tube. Filter-sterilized 5% polysorbate 80-phosphate buffered saline (phosphate-buffered saline (10x concentrated), Nacalai Tesque Co., Ltd., polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.), which had been warmed to approximately 50°C, was added to dilute it 60 to 80 times, and about 10 glass beads (BZ-3, AS ONE Corporation) were added and mixed.

[0057] Approximately 0.8 g was taken into a 15 mL conical tube and mixed with filtered and sterilized 0.1% polysorbate 80-phosphate buffered saline (phosphate buffered saline (10x concentrated), Nacalai Tesque Co., Ltd., polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) to achieve a final dilution ratio of approximately 400 to 700 times.

[0058] Approximately 10 glass beads (BZ-3, AS ONE Corporation) were placed inside, and ultrasonic treatment (high-durability ultrasonic cleaner IUC-600, Tokyo Ultrasonic Technology Co., Ltd.) was performed for a maximum of 30 minutes. 3 μL of the sonicated solution was dropped onto a glass slide, covered with a coverslip (18 mm x 18 mm), and bacterial cells were confirmed by observation using a microscope (Elevator Microscope BX53, Evident Co., Ltd.). Microscope images were captured using a digital microscope camera (DP74, Evident Co., Ltd.) and the cellSens software.

[0059] The presence or absence of bacterial aggregation was confirmed in the entire field of view within the cover glass according to the following evaluation criterion A. The presence or absence of bacterial aggregation was confirmed using images at a magnification of 400x. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0060] -Evaluation Criterion A- ×: Aggregation present (Number of lactic acid bacteria aggregates where the entire round outline of the lactic acid bacteria powder remains, and lactic acid bacteria aggregates where only a part of the outline of the lactic acid bacteria powder remains (circularity of 0.70 or more and area of ​​100 μm) 2 The above, plus circularity of 0.45 or more and less than 0.70 with an area of ​​250 μm². 2 (The total number of the above items is 11 or more.) △: Slight aggregation present (number of lactic acid bacteria aggregates where the entire round outline of the lactic acid bacteria powder remains, and lactic acid bacteria aggregates where only a part of the outline of the lactic acid bacteria powder remains (circularity of 0.70 or more and area of ​​100 μm) 2 The above, plus circularity of 0.45 or more and less than 0.70 with an area of ​​250 μm². 2 (The total number of the above items is 10 or less.) ○: No aggregation (no lactic acid bacteria aggregates whatsoever, including minute ones)

[0061] [Table 1]

[0062] <Production of the composition 2> (Test Example 2-1) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 1-2, except that the gardenia yellow pigment preparation (Clovit® P, Riken Vitamin Co., Ltd.) was replaced with marigold pigment (Lyc-O-Lutein 20% SAF, LycoRed Co., Ltd.).

[0063] (Test Example 2-2) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 1-2, except that the gardenia yellow pigment preparation (Clovit® P, Riken Vitamin Co., Ltd.) was replaced with bilberry extract powder (Bilberry Extract-25, Ningbo Green-Health Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.).

[0064] <Lactic acid bacteria aggregation inhibitory effect 2> For the compositions prepared and stored in Test Examples 2-1 to 2-2, the presence or absence of bacterial aggregation was confirmed in the same manner as in Lactic Acid Bacteria Aggregation Inhibition Effect 1, except that the presence or absence of bacterial aggregation was confirmed according to the following evaluation criterion B. The results are shown in Table 2. Table 2 also includes the results for Test Examples 1-1 and 1-2.

[0065] -Evaluation Criterion B- ×: Aggregation present ○: No aggregation

[0066] [Table 2]

[0067] <Production of the composition 3> (Test Example 3-1) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 2-1, except that after mixing the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder, the gardenia yellow pigment preparation (Clovit® P, Riken Vitamin Co., Ltd.) was mixed in the proportions shown in Table 3.

[0068] (Test Example 3-2) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 2-2, except that after mixing the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder, the gardenia yellow pigment preparation (Clovit® P, Riken Vitamin Co., Ltd.) was mixed in the proportions shown in Table 3.

[0069] <Lactic acid bacteria aggregation inhibitory effect 3> For the compositions prepared and stored in Test Examples 3-1 to 3-2, the presence or absence of bacterial aggregation was confirmed in the same manner as in Lactic Acid Bacteria Aggregation Inhibition Effect 2. The results are shown in Table 3. Table 3 also includes the results for Test Examples 2-1 and 2-2.

[0070] [Table 3]

[0071] <Production of the composition 4> (Test Example 4-1) The compositions were prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-4, except that arginine was replaced with lysine.

[0072] (Test Example 4-2) The compositions were prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-4, except that arginine was replaced with histidine.

[0073] (Test Example 4-3) The compositions were prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-4, except that arginine was replaced with aspartic acid.

[0074] (Test Example 4-4) The compositions were prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-4, except that arginine was replaced with glutamic acid.

[0075] (Test example 4-5) The compositions were prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-4, except that arginine was replaced with valine.

[0076] (Test example 4-6) The compositions were prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-4, except that arginine was replaced with leucine.

[0077] (Test example 4-7) The compositions were prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-4, except that arginine was replaced with glutamine.

[0078] (Test Example 4-8) The compositions were prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-4, except that arginine was replaced with taurine.

[0079] (Test example 4-9) The compositions were prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-4, except that arginine was replaced with theanine.

[0080] (Test example 4-10) The compositions were prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-4, except that arginine was replaced with citrulline.

[0081] <Lactic acid bacteria aggregation inhibitory effect 4> For the compositions prepared and stored in Test Examples 4-1 to 4-6, the presence or absence of bacterial aggregation was confirmed in the same manner as in Lactic Acid Bacteria Aggregation Inhibition Effect 1. The results are shown in Table 4. For the compositions prepared and stored in Test Examples 4-7 to 4-10, the presence or absence of bacterial aggregation was confirmed in the same manner as in Lactic Acid Bacteria Aggregation Inhibition Effect 1. The results are shown in Table 5.

[0082] [Table 4]

[0083] [Table 5]

[0084] <Production of the composition 5> (Test Example 5-1) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 1-1, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacteria (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (L-92 lactic acid bacteria (accession number: FERM BP-4981) powder).

[0085] (Test Example 5-2) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 1-2, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacteria (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (L-92 lactic acid bacteria (accession number: FERM BP-4981) powder).

[0086] (Test Example 5-3) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-5, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacteria (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (L-92 lactic acid bacteria (accession number: FERM BP-4981) powder).

[0087] (Test Example 5-4) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 2-1, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacteria (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (L-92 lactic acid bacteria (accession number: FERM BP-4981) powder).

[0088] (Test Example 5-5) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 3-1, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacteria (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (L-92 lactic acid bacteria (accession number: FERM BP-4981) powder).

[0089] (Test example 5-6) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 2-2, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacteria (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (L-92 lactic acid bacteria (accession number: FERM BP-4981) powder).

[0090] (Test example 5-7) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 3-2, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacteria (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (L-92 lactic acid bacteria (accession number: FERM BP-4981) powder).

[0091] <Lactic acid bacteria aggregation inhibitory effect 5> For the compositions prepared and stored in Test Examples 5-1 to 5-7, the presence or absence of bacterial aggregation was confirmed in the same manner as in Lactic Acid Bacteria Aggregation Inhibition Effect 2. The results are shown in Table 6.

[0092] [Table 6]

[0093] <Composition Manufacturing 6> (Test Example 6-1) The compositions were prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-5, except that vegetable oil, emulsifier, and beeswax were heated and mixed to dissolve them in the proportions shown in Table 7, and a gardenia yellow pigment preparation (Clovit® P, Riken Vitamin Co., Ltd.) was mixed in the proportions shown in Table 7.

[0094] <Lactic acid bacteria aggregation inhibitory effect 6> The composition prepared and stored in Test Example 6-1 was examined for bacterial aggregation in the same manner as in Lactic Acid Bacteria Aggregation Inhibition Effect 2. The results are shown in Table 7. Table 7 also includes the results for Test Examples 1-5.

[0095] [Table 7]

[0096] <Composition Manufacturing 7> (Exam examples 7-1 to 7-8) The compositions were prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-5, except that vegetable oil, emulsifier, and beeswax were heated and mixed to dissolve them in the proportions shown in Table 8, and a gardenia yellow pigment preparation (Crovit® P, Riken Vitamin Co., Ltd.) was mixed in the proportions shown in Table 8.

[0097] <Lactic acid bacteria aggregation inhibitory effect 7> For the compositions prepared and stored in Test Examples 7-1 to 7-8, the presence or absence of bacterial aggregation was confirmed in the same manner as in Lactic Acid Bacteria Aggregation Inhibition Effect 1. The results are shown in Table 8. Table 8 also includes the results for Test Examples 1-5.

[0098] [Table 8]

[0099] <Production of the composition 8> (Test Example 8-1) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 1-1, except that sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacterial cells (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (plant-derived lactic acid bacteria HSK201D) (Nippon Pure Food Co., Ltd.) and mixed at the proportions shown in Table 9.

[0100] (Test Example 8-2) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 1-2, except that sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacterial cells (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (plant-derived lactic acid bacteria HSK201D) (Nippon Pure Food Co., Ltd.) and mixed at the proportions shown in Table 9.

[0101] (Test Example 8-3) The compositions were prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-5, except that sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacterial cells (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (plant-derived lactic acid bacteria HSK201D) (Nippon Pure Food Co., Ltd.) and mixed at the proportions shown in Table 9.

[0102] <Lactic acid bacteria aggregation inhibitory effect 8> For the compositions prepared and stored in Test Examples 8-1 to 8-3, the presence or absence of bacterial aggregation was confirmed in the same manner as in Lactic Acid Bacteria Aggregation Inhibition Effect 2, except that the final dilution ratio was 200 times. The results are shown in Table 9.

[0103] [Table 9]

[0104] <Production of Composition 9> (Test Example 9-1) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 1-1, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacterial cells (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (HDB1098) (Toa Chemical Co., Ltd.).

[0105] (Test Example 9-2) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 1-2, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacterial cells (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (HDB1098) (Toa Chemical Co., Ltd.).

[0106] (Test Example 9-3) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-5, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacterial cells (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (HDB1098) (Toa Chemical Co., Ltd.).

[0107] (Test Example 9-4) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 2-1, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacterial cells (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (HDB1098) (Toa Chemical Co., Ltd.).

[0108] (Test Example 9-5) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 3-1, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacterial cells (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (HDB1098) (Toa Chemical Co., Ltd.).

[0109] (Test Example 9-6) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 2-2, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacterial cells (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (HDB1098) (Toa Chemical Co., Ltd.).

[0110] (Test Example 9-7) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 3-2, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacterial cells (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (HDB1098) (Toa Chemical Co., Ltd.).

[0111] <Lactic acid bacteria aggregation inhibitory effect 9> For the compositions prepared and stored in Test Examples 9-1 to 9-7, the presence or absence of bacterial aggregation was confirmed in the same manner as in Lactic Acid Bacteria Aggregation Inhibition Effect 2. The results are shown in Table 10.

[0112] [Table 10]

[0113] <Production of composition 10> (Test Example 10-1) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 1-1, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacterial cells (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (LPQ1) (Toa Chemical Industries, Ltd.).

[0114] <Production of composition 10> (Test Example 10-1) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Example 1-2, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacterial cells (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (LPQ1) (Toa Chemical Industries, Ltd.).

[0115] <Production of composition 10> (Test Example 10-1) The composition was prepared and stored in the same manner as in Test Examples 1-5, except that the sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (CP2305 bacterial cells (accession number: FERM BP-11331) powder) was replaced with sterilized lactic acid bacteria powder (LPQ1) (Toa Chemical Industries, Ltd.).

[0116] <Lactic acid bacteria aggregation inhibitory effect 10> For the compositions prepared and stored in Test Examples 10-1 to 10-3, the presence or absence of bacterial aggregation was confirmed in the same manner as in Lactic Acid Bacteria Aggregation Inhibition Effect 2. The results are shown in Table 11.

[0117] [Table 11]

[0118] The results from Tables 1 to 11 show that in a composition containing lactic acid bacteria, at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols, and a basic amino acid or a neutral amino acid, the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria that occurs when the composition contains lactic acid bacteria and at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols is suppressed. The composition produced in this embodiment mimics the contents of a soft capsule.

Claims

1. A composition characterized by comprising lactic acid bacteria, at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols, and a basic amino acid or a neutral amino acid.

2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the lactic acid bacteria are lactic acid bacteria belonging to the genera Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, or Bifidobacterium.

3. The composition according to claim 2, wherein the lactic acid bacteria is Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, or Lactobacillus brevis.

4. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the carotenoid is carotene or xanthophyll.

5. The carotene is crocetin, β-carotene, or lycopene. The composition according to claim 4, wherein the xanthophyll is lutein or astaxanthin.

6. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the polyphenol is anthocyanin or catechin.

7. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the composition is an oral composition.

8. The composition according to claim 7, wherein the oral composition is a soft capsule or a tablet.

9. A composition for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria, characterized by comprising lactic acid bacteria, at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols, and a basic amino acid or a neutral amino acid.

10. A method for inhibiting the aggregation of lactic acid bacteria, characterized by comprising the step of mixing lactic acid bacteria with at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols and a basic amino acid or a neutral amino acid.

11. A method for producing a composition, characterized by comprising the step of mixing lactic acid bacteria, at least one selected from carotenoids and polyphenols, and a basic amino acid or a neutral amino acid.

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