Effect of blueberry extract, carriers, and combinations on the growth rate of probiotic and pathogenic bacteria.

The blueberry is recognised as a source of phenolic compounds that have beneficial effects on human health; however, they possess low bioavailability and can be degraded by gastrointestinal conditions. Encapsulation has been widely used to mitigate these disadvantages; Gum Arabic (GA) and Corn Syrup Solids (CSS) are common carriers used in this technique. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Blueberry Extract (BE), carriers and their mixtures on the kinetic growth and maximal growth rate of probiotics and pathogenic bacteria.