The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

Danone has launched a science-backed probiotic supplement that aims to support breastfeeding experiences by preventing mastitis. Mastitis, an inflammation of the breast tissue that often results in breast pain, swelling, fever and redness/skin rashes, affects around one in four breastfeeding mothers during the first 26 weeks postpartum. Danone's new supplement, called Almimama, has now been released in Spain and is available in packs of 30 powdered sachets. Danone recommends taking one every day, and says the supplement has a "neutral taste and dissolves quickly in water". According to Danone's research, probiotic supplementation during late pregnancy and in the early stages of breastfeeding can reduce mastitis. "Almimama is the only synbiotic supplement for pregnant or lactating mothers that combines the probiotic strain L. salivarius PS2 with fructooligosaccharides," Danone said in a statement. The French dairy giant claims this particular strain of probiotics can reduce the incidence of mastitis by up to 59%. Rocio Martin, global medical and scientific affairs director at Danone, said: “Many women say during pregnancy they used to imagine what it would be like to give birth, but they never, or rarely, consider not being able to breastfeed". She added: "They are given little information in this regard and may not know that complications occur in up to one-third of cases. We understand this can be distressing and, with this solution, we hope to support mothers in extending their breastfeeding journey as long as possible.”