Evidence-backed FAQ
What does CFU mean in probiotics?
Direct answer
CFU means colony-forming units, an estimate of the number of live microorganisms in a probiotic serving. There is no single CFU amount that is right for every strain, product, or outcome.[1], [2]
What the evidence shows
Human studies tested a wide range of amounts. Dose-response findings depend on the exact strain and endpoint; antibiotic-associated diarrhea has a clearer signal than many other outcomes.[1], [2]
Important limitations
A larger CFU number does not automatically mean a better product, and dose-response findings cannot be generalized across strains or conditions.[1], [2]
Related questions
- Is more CFU always better?
- Does the probiotic definition specify a number?
Read the full evidence summary
This FAQ is the concise answer. The linked research page provides the full study context, populations, doses, outcomes, and limitations.
References
- A review of dose-responses of probiotics in human studies.. Beneficial microbes. 2017. Narrative review View source →
- Probiotics for the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea: a systematic review and meta-analysis.. BMJ open. 2021. Systematic review and meta-analysis View source →