Characterization of Lactobacillus acidophilus strains for use as dietary adjunct

Seven Lactobacillus acidophilus strains were studied for their morphology, biochemical properties, growth behaviour, bile tolerance, cholesterol uptake and survival at low pH. The strains significantly differed in their biochemical and beneficial traits. The strains which exhibited cholesterol uptake and ability to grow in the presence of 0.3% bile salt also utilized mannitol.