The research, which assesses the immune-boosting powers of Lactobacillus brevis from Suguki – a pickled turnip, popular in Japan – in mice that have been exposed to a flu virus, is published today (06 November) in the SfAM journal, Letters in Applied Microbiology.
Lead researcher, Ms Naoko Waki of KAGOME CO., LTD. in Japan said: “Our results show that when a particular strain ofLactobacillus brevis is eaten by mice, it has protective effects against influenza virus infection.”
Japanese pickle prevents flu infection - Possible next superfood
