As the aging population grows, so does the demand for effective, science-backed solutions to protect memory and cognition.
This is where Memory Critical Care comes into focus – an emerging category dedicated to safeguarding memory, maintaining focus and supporting overall cognitive function before decline becomes irreversible.
The market trends reflect this urgency. The global cognitive health supplement market is projected to reach $11.55bn in 2025 and soar to $40.27bn by 2035.¹ Meanwhile, the brain health supplements market is forecast to expand from $9.93bn in 2024 to $19.53bn by 2030.²
Consumers are actively seeking natural, science-backed solutions, and probiotics – particularly those influencing the gut-brain axis – are emerging as one of the most promising categories.
At the forefront of this movement is Bifidobacterium breve MCC1274, a proprietary probiotic strain developed by Morinaga Milk Industry Co., Ltd. Years of dedicated research have demonstrated its ability to help maintain memory and cognitive function in older adults, precisely the kind of breakthrough that defines the future of Memory Critical Care.
MCC1274 for cognitive health
MCC1274 is a human-residential-bifidobacteria (HRB) originally isolated from a healthy infant, selected for its stability, safety and targeted impact on the gut-brain axis. Its unique ability to influence cognitive health at the preventive stage makes it a key player in strategies designed to protect brain health long before dementia sets in.
This is particularly relevant in addressing Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), the critical state between healthy cognition and dementia. Research shows that 16 to 41% of individuals with MCI can revert to a healthier state if the right interventions are applied.³
Fascinating data further reveal that Alzheimer’s patients exhibit lower intestinal bacterial diversity and a reduced presence of Bifidobacterium compared to healthy individuals – pointing to probiotics, especially bifidobacteria, as a promising tool for cognitive preservation.
A large-scale consumer survey in Japan found that dementia is the most feared disease among adults, ranking higher than cancer.⁴ The survey, which included over 18,000 respondents aged 30 to 70, reflects a strong public concern about cognitive decline and highlights the importance of preventive approaches. This insight reinforces the relevance of MCC1274, a probiotic strain shown to support cognitive function, in addressing one of the most pressing health concerns among consumers.
This is why Morinaga Milk began exploring the powerful potential of MCC1274: to lead the way in Memory Critical Care by providing a safe, science-backed probiotic intervention designed to help people maintain cognitive health and independence as they age.
Clinical findings
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving healthy older adults with subjective memory complaints, daily supplementation with MCC1274 for 16 weeks resulted in statistically significant improvements in memory scores compared to the placebo.⁵ These improvements were observed in both verbal and visual memory domains, as measured by standardized neuropsychological tests.
A 2022 study also reported a reduction in serum inflammatory markers, suggesting MCC1274 may exert its cognitive benefits through modulation of systemic inflammation.⁶
Mechanism of action
MCC1274 is believed to act via the gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication network linking the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system. By reducing inflammation, MCC1274 may help maintain neuronal health and cognitive performance in aging individuals.
Regulatory milestones
MCC1274 has been submitted under Japan’s Foods with Function Claims (FFC) system and has received GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status in the US. These regulatory approvals affirm the safety and efficacy of MCC1274 for use in functional foods and dietary supplements.
Global recognition and awards
MCC1274 is also the only probiotic introduced on a dedicated website for Alzheimer’s disease (ALZFORUM). In addition, MCC1274 has received multiple accolades, including the NutraIngredients-Asia Award for Cognitive Function and the Wellness Food Award Japan in 2023.⁷
Recently, it has also been awarded for Vitafoods Europe Innovation Awards in 2025 in the Cognitive and Emotional Health Ingredients category and featured in presentations at global nutraceutical conferences, reflecting its growing reputation as a next-generation probiotic for cognitive wellness.
Application possibilities
MCC1274 is currently applicable in various consumer formats, including capsules, sachets and yogurt-based products. Morinaga Milk’s proprietary production technology ensures MCC1274’s high stability and wide range of product formats, making it ideal for incorporation into functional foods targeting the aging population.
MCC1274 represents a new frontier in probiotic science – one that transcends traditional digestive health to confront the pressing issue of cognitive aging. Backed by robust human clinical evidence, regulatory approvals and growing global market traction, MCC1274 is not merely a promising innovation, but a transformative ingredient poised to redefine the future of functional foods.
Its proven efficacy positions it as a cornerstone in the development of brain health solutions that are both accessible and scientifically validated. As consumer awareness of cognitive wellness continues to rise, MCC1274 stands ready to meet this demand, offering a compelling blend of safety, performance, and commercial viability.
References
- Future Market Insights. Cognitive Health Supplement Market.
- Global Risk Community. Cognitive Health Supplement Market Growth & Trends: Insights for 2024-2032.
- Japanese Ministry of Health. Labour and Welfare.
- Taiyo Life Aging Society Institute.
- Xiao, J.; et al. Probiotic Bifidobacterium breve in Improving Cognitive Functions of Older Adults with Suspected Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Journal of Alzheimer’s disease. 2020; vol. 77(1): 139-147.
- Asaoka, D.; et al. Effect of Probiotic Bifidobacterium breve in Improving Cognitive Function and Preventing Brain Atrophy in Older Patients with Suspected Mild Cognitive Impairment: Results of a 24-Week Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Journal of Alzheimer’s disease. 2022; 88(1): 75-95.
- NutraIngredients Asia Awards 2025. 2023 Winners & Finalists.
