| 37 T T Russell Fredric Pioneering oral probiotic technology BLIS Technologies senior leadership team. Dunedin: Blis Technologies REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT At its core, the BLIS Technologies’ story is one that resonates universally; the triumph of the good guys over the bad guys. From its headquarters in Dunedin, New Zealand, the company is pioneering oral probiotic technology worldwide, rooted in microbiological research conducted by its founder, Professor John Tagg, at Otago University. BLIS Technologies employs 31 staff across three sites, including a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility that supplies products globally. Its range encompasses dental health, ear, nose and throat health, immune health, and skin health solutions, available in lozenge, serum and powder forms. Its international footprint spans key markets such as the United States, Europe, China, Japan and India. In 2021 Swedish-based probiotics company Probi acquired a 13% stake in BLIS, marking a strategic collaboration aimed at long-term growth. BLIS chief revenue officer Jennifer Walker attributes recent sales growth to heightened consumer awareness of probiotics supporting health beyond gut health, catalysed in part by the COVID-19 pandemic, and notes a proactive shift among consumers towards overall health and well-being. A cornerstone of BLIS Technologies’ portfolio is its trademarked BLIS K12. This is an oral probiotic renowned for promoting a healthy oral microbiome and enhancing the body’s natural immune response against bacterial and viral pathogens linked to recurrent upper respiratory tract infections. Naturally present in the human oral microbiome, BLIS K12 is found in beneficial amounts in only 2-5% of the population. “Taking BLIS K12 as a supplement ensures we can all benefit from its powerful health benefits,” Jennifer says. “The microbiome, encompassing bacteria, fungi, and viruses, plays a pivotal role in our health. “Maintaining balance within both oral and gut microbiomes is crucial for optimal immune function. Research underscores their role in educating immune cells and modulating immune responses.” Scientifically proven to displace and inhibit pathogenic bacteria, BLIS K12 also actively combats them. Jennifer underscores a growing consumer recognition of probiotics’ benefits in safeguarding oral health and bolstering immunity beyond the gut. “While probiotics are well-known for gut health, awareness is expanding to other areas like skin, vaginal, scalp, and oral health.”However, she emphasises a significant need for public education regarding oral probiotics. “Oral health is intricately linked to overall health.” “Numerous chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and Alzheimer’s, can trace their origins to oral health.” Further, recent studies indicate that individuals vaccinated against COVID-19 who use BLIS K12 lozenges exhibit elevated antibody levels and potentially faster recovery times, underscoring its multifaceted benefits. Reflecting on BLIS Technologies’ journey, Jennifer describes their pioneering efforts more than two decades ago as being ahead of their time.“Our challenge was the nascent market awareness. That landscape is evolving, and we’re witnessing burgeoning interest and uptake.” “We’re proud to export cutting-edge Dunedin technology globally; a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” Pleased to be supporting Blis Technologies Ltd
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=