The market is also predicted to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.6 per cent between now and 2014, according to an analyst briefing presentation on the global probiotic market from MarketsandMarkets.

The company said the US market would have a CAGR of 17 per cent, while Asia and Europe will account for nearly 30, and 42 per cent of the total revenues, respectively.

“The early movers in the industry will benefit in terms of market share but it is important that they focus on innovating probiotic strains that are more efficient in terms of survivability in harsh conditions and stability and are supported by competitively-priced production technologies,” said MarketsandMarkets.

“In addition, garnering faith of the consumers by making substantiated and legitimate assertions in terms of health benefits will profit the market in future.”