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Written by the Probiotic.ie Editorial Team • Reviewed for accuracy
Last updated: December 2025
Probiotics Ireland: Evidence-Based Guide and Neutral Comparison of Common Brands
Medical disclaimer (Ireland): This article is for information only and does not replace advice from your GP, pharmacist, gastroenterologist or hospital team.
Introduction: clear definitions
Probiotics are live microorganisms, usually bacteria, consumed in foods or supplements. Probiotic products are not interchangeable because they differ by strain identity, dose (CFU), and formulation.
“Probiotics Ireland” is a broad search term. Most people want a clear, neutral explanation of how products sold in Ireland differ and what the evidence actually supports.
This guide explains four commonly searched probiotic brands in Ireland: CDS22-formula, VSL#3, Optibac Every Day, and Alflorex. It focuses on factual differences only. It is not medical advice.
TL;DR – Quick answer for Ireland
- Formats: sachet powders (CDS22, some VSL#3) vs capsules (Optibac Every Day, Alflorex).
- CFU range: from around 1 billion CFU per capsule (Alflorex) to 450 billion CFU per sachet (CDS22-formula).
- Evidence: research is formulation-specific. Results from one product do not apply to others.
- How to choose: compare labels, check strain identity and format, and discuss long-term use with a healthcare professional.
Quick comparison: popular probiotics in Ireland
| Feature | CDS22-formula | VSL#3 | Optibac Every Day | Alflorex |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Format |
sachets + capsules |
sachets + capsules |
Capsule | Capsule |
| Strain count | 8 strains | 8 strains | 6 strains | 1 strain |
| Stated CFU | 450 billion per sachet | Varies by product | 5 billion per capsule | 1 billion per capsule |
| Storage | Refrigerated | Refrigerated | Shelf-stable | Shelf-stable |
1. What is CDS22-formula?
- Streptococcus thermophilus DSM 24731 / NCIMB 30438
- Bifidobacterium breve DSM 24732 / NCIMB 30441
- Bifidobacterium longum DSM 24736 / NCIMB 30442
- Bifidobacterium infantis DSM 24737 / NCIMB 30443
- Lactobacillus acidophilus DSM 24735 / NCIMB 30439
- Lactobacillus plantarum DSM 24730 / NCIMB 30437
- Lactobacillus paracasei DSM 24733 / NCIMB 30445
- Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus DSM 24734 / NCIMB 30440
2. What is VSL#3?
- Streptococcus thermophilus BT01
- Bifidobacterium breve BB02
- Bifidobacterium longum BL03
- Bifidobacterium infantis BI04
- Lactobacillus acidophilus BA05
- Lactobacillus plantarum BP06
- Lactobacillus paracasei BP07
- Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus BD08
3. What is Optibac Every Day?
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus Rosell-11
- Lactobacillus acidophilus / helveticus Rosell-52
- Bifidobacterium longum Rosell-175
- Bifidobacterium breve Rosell-70
- Bifidobacterium bifidum Rosell-71
- Lactococcus lactis Rosell-1058
4. What is Alflorex?
- Bifidobacterium longum 35624
Strain-by-strain comparison
| Strain | CDS22 | VSL#3 | Optibac | Alflorex |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L. plantarum | DSM 24730 | BP06 | Not listed | Not listed |
| B. longum | DSM 24736 | BL03 | Rosell-175 | 35624 |
| L. acidophilus | DSM 24735 | BA05 | Rosell-52 | Not listed |
Safety and tolerability
Many people tolerate probiotics well. If you are immunocompromised, seriously unwell, or under specialist care, discuss probiotic use with your healthcare professional first. NHS guidance also notes that evidence is limited for many probiotic claims.
Which option suits which scenario?
- Higher-dose sachet format: consider sachet-based options and verify the exact strain set and storage requirements.
- Daily capsule routine: many people prefer the simplicity of capsule formats.
- Single-strain approach: some products focus on one defined strain identity.
Summary
- Probiotics in Ireland differ by strain identity, CFU per serving, format and storage requirements.
- Evidence is formulation-specific. Do not assume results transfer across products.
- Probiotics do not replace prescribed treatment.
See what customers across Ireland are saying about CDS22-formula:
Explore CDS22-formula in Ireland: CDS22-Vivomixx Probiotic 450 Billion – 12 Sachets
Related reading (Ireland)
Note: This comparison is informational and does not replace medical advice. Discuss probiotic use with your GP, pharmacist or specialist healthcare professional in Ireland.
About this page
This comparison is informational and based on publicly available manufacturer information and independent health guidance relevant to Ireland.
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