Probiotics and Human Health: Synoptic Review (Report‪)‬

INTRODUCTION Probiotics have a long history of human use, and cultured dairy products, for example, are traditionally consumed in several parts of the world. The FAO/WHO defines probiotics as 'Live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host' [1]. The first recorded probiotic was fermented milk for human consumption. After that, probiotics became popular with animal nutrition. The role of fermented milk in human diet was known even in Vedic times. But, the scientific interest in this area boosted after the publication of the book entitled The Prolongation of Life [2] by Metchnikoff.