Probiotics have been commonly consumed as food, but developments in science and technology have provided research opportunities and the potential for wider use of probiotic productsJakarta (ANTARA) - The National Agency for Drug and Food Control (BPOM) is promoting the development of competitive local probiotic products to improve the national economy.
"Probiotics have been commonly consumed as food, but developments in science and technology have provided research opportunities and the potential for wider use of probiotic products," head of BPOM, Penny K. Lukito, said at the “Seminar on Research and Potential Development of Probiotic Products,” held virtually at the BPOM Building here on Tuesday.
The seminar covered research and the potential development of probiotic products that provide health benefits as well as the existing regulations in several countries, including Indonesia, she added.
According to Lukito, the development of probiotic products that can offer good health benefits must still meet the safety and benefit standards in accordance with the regulations and scientific data, such as data obtained from clinical trials.
The BPOM head said that in 2021, her agency issued Regulation Number 17 of 2021 regarding Guidelines for Assessment of Health Supplement Products Containing Probiotics, which details safety, benefits, and quality requirements that need to be met.
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Probiotic products in Indonesia can be developed into medicines, health supplements, and processed into healthy food.
"This seminar is expected to offer a new perspective and add knowledge and insights related to research on new probiotics and how to fulfill data according to regulations," she said.
The outcomes of the meeting will be considered while preparing technical guidelines on the regulation of probiotic products at BPOM, Lukito added.
At the same time as the seminar, an offline consultation was held by the BPOM to provide information and consultation services regarding the regulation of probiotics as food and health supplements.
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An exhibition was also held simultaneously and was attended by domestic business actors and industries whose probiotic products have been registered with the BPOM and who have obtained a marketing permit number (NIE).
The exhibition of local probiotic products is expected to help promote and introduce probiotic products to the broader community.
"This exhibition is a form of BPOM's support for the development of domestic probiotic products that are safe, beneficial, quality, and competitive," she remarked.
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Translator: Andi Firdaus, Raka Adji
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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