Lactobacillus paracasei-Enriched Vegetables Containing Health Promoting Molecules

Broadening the range of probiotic foods is an interest of both consumers and enterprises because probiotic products available on the market are mainly limited to milk-based foods or dietary supplements. Here we describe the efficient association of a probiotic Lactobacillus paracasei strain with several vegetable matrices acting as vehicles for both live beneficial probiotic populations and health-promoting molecules. In this regard, table olives, cabbage, and artichokes were proved to be suitable as probiotic carriers, also providing phytochemicals, such as glucosinolates and polyphenols, as well as the prebiotic inulin. Moreover, experimental results demonstrated the technological features of the probiotic strain acting as an efficient starter for fermentation process, saving the bioactive molecules, and as a protective culture improving product shelflife. Finally, in vivo human trials indicated the efficacy of the symbiotic artichokes, carrying the probiotic L. paracasei IMPC2.1, in modulating fecal biochemical and microbiological parameters and in reducing symptoms of functional constipation.