Probiotics vs Probiotic Spores – What You Need to Know

When it comes to microbiome research, probiotics are widely discussed. But there’s another category worth understanding: probiotic spores. Knowing the difference can help you understand modern supplement formulations.

What Are Probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms naturally present in certain foods and in the gut. These live bacteria have been studied for their role in the gut microbiome and are included in supplements in various forms.

Because probiotics are live, they can be sensitive to heat, stomach acid, and storage conditions, which may affect the number of viable cells in a supplement over time.

What Are Probiotic Spores?

Probiotic spores, such as Bacillus coagulans or Bacillus subtilis, are a type of bacteria that can form a protective shell. This structure makes them more resistant to heat and acid, helping the bacterial cells remain stable during storage and passage through the stomach.

Spore-forming probiotics are included in some supplements to provide a more stable and shelf-resistant option.

Our Approach at RayMixin

RayMixin 16-in-1 combines probiotic spores, heat-inactivated Lactobacillus plantarum cells, postbiotic compounds, and a carefully selected mix of vitamins and minerals in a single daily capsule. Spore-forming bacteria were selected for their natural resilience—they remain stable during storage and passage through the stomach, offering a reliable way to include beneficial bacterial ingredients without the sensitivity issues associated with live probiotics.