Consider the following statements in respect of probiotics : 1. Probiotics are made of both bacteria and yeast. 2. The organisms in probiotics are found in foods we ingest but they do not naturally occur in our gut. 3. Probiotics help in the digestion of milk sugars. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) 1 and 3 ✓ UPSC's answer
- (d) 2 and 3
Why the answer is (c)
• Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer a health benefit when consumed in adequate amounts.
• Statement 1 is correct: they include bacteria (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium) and yeasts (Saccharomyces boulardii).
• Statement 3 is correct: Lactobacillus strains produce lactase, helping digest lactose (milk sugar) and easing lactose intolerance.
• Statement 2 is wrong: many probiotic species are the same as, or close relatives of, bacteria that naturally live in the human gut; they are found in fermented foods like curd and also occur in our intestines.
• Hence 1 and 3, option (c).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 only
- Statement 3 on digesting milk sugar is also correct.
- (b) 2 only
- Statement 2 is wrong: probiotic organisms do occur naturally in the gut.
- (d) 2 and 3
- Statement 2 is wrong; statement 1 is correct.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2022, held on 5 June 2022. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.