Postbiotics: Definition and Mechanism of Action
Emilia Szymańska
2026-03-22
6 min. read
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In recent years, knowledge about the impact of microbiota, which are bacteria that inhabit the human body, on human function has been increasing. Disorders in the composition of the microbiota can contribute to the development of allergies and autoimmune diseases. Therefore, many scientists are working on ways to influence the composition of the microbiota and restore it to a healthy state. Currently, prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics are primarily used for this purpose. However, recently, a new group, postbiotics, has gained popularity. Therefore, it is worth considering what they are and how they operate, as well as how they differ from other preparations.
Conceptual Clarification: Scientific Definition of Postbiotics Based on Contemporary Research
Pursuant to the authoritative definition established by the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP), the term "postbiotics" refers to "preparations comprising inactivated microorganisms or their bioactive constituents that confer health benefits upon the host organism" (Salminen et al., 2021). This classification thus encompasses not only intact, nonviable bacterial cells but also their structural components—such as cell membrane fragments or peptidoglycan layers—as well as metabolic byproducts generated through microbial fermentation processes. Among these compounds are organic carboxylic acids, an array of B-complex vitamins, and short-chain fatty acids (including acetate, propionate, and butyrate), all of which perform pivotal functions in sustaining both gut and systemic homeostasis.
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