Bifidobacterium is a genus of gram-positive, nonmotile, anaerobic bacteria, often characterized by a branched structure. These bacteria are among the first to colonize the human gastrointestinal tract after birth and are widely regarded for their potential health benefits.

Different strains of Bifidobacterium can provide a variety of beneficial effects, such as maintaining intestinal microbial balance, inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens and bacteria in the gut, modulating both local and systemic immune responses, producing essential vitamins, and converting dietary compounds into bioactive molecules.

As probiotics, Bifidobacteria have been extensively studied for their potential in preventing and treating a range of gastrointestinal disorders in both animals and humans. These include conditions such as colonic transit issues, intestinal infections, and even colonic adenomas and cancer. Due to their wide-ranging health benefits, Bifidobacteria are commonly incorporated into functional foods as key active ingredients.