Probiotics

Probiotics, prebiotics and kefir: what is the difference?

Probiotics are live microorganisms taken as a supplement; prebiotics are non-digestible fibres that feed them; synbiotics combine both in one product. Kefir and yogurt starters are fermentation cultures used to make fermented milk at home, while products such as broccoli seed extract are gut-health supplements but are not live probiotics.

How to read CFU and strain names

CFU (colony-forming units) shows how many live microorganisms a dose is designed to contain. Higher is not automatically better: the strain, the format and how you store the product matter too. In this category CFU counts range from about 5 billion to 100 billion across the range, and every product page states the labelled count and strains; always read the label rather than comparing CFU alone.

Choose by need: adults, women and home fermentation

Match the formula to the person and the routine. The table is a starting point, not medical advice.

Why choose Yogourmet kefir and yogurt starters?

Yogourmet offers three 3 g sachet products, six sachets per box: freeze-dried kefir starter, probiotic kefir starter and yogurt starter. They are made for home fermentation - no capsules to swallow - and each pack states the milk or water amount, temperature and timing. The brand is Canadian; manufacturing origin as stated on the pack.

1. Prepare a clean jar and the amount of milk or water stated on the pack.
2. Add the starter and incubate at the temperature stated on the pack.
3. Chill the finished kefir or yogurt and use it within the pack instructions.
4. Use clean utensils each time to keep the culture healthy.

Brand page: Yogourmet; origin as stated on the pack.

Five brands, origins and product lines

Brand origin is shown below; the manufacturing country of individual products can differ, so check the product page and pack.

How to take and store probiotics

Take probiotics at a consistent time each day and follow the label for dose and timing. Some products need refrigeration and some are shelf-stable; keep the pack sealed, dry and away from direct light, and never decant capsules or powders into unlabelled containers. If you are taking antibiotics, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a long-term condition, ask a doctor or pharmacist first.

• Read the dose and age guidance on the label before the first dose.
• Check whether the product needs refrigeration after opening.
• Keep probiotics out of reach of children.
• If you feel unwell, stop and seek medical advice.

This page provides retail information only and is not medical advice. Probiotics are food supplements, not medicines. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, people with long-term conditions and anyone taking antibiotics should consult a healthcare professional before purchase or use. Last updated: 2026-11-11.

Buying in Hong Kong and Macau

Order online for delivery, or visit our Mong Kok and Macau stores to buy in person. HK orders over HK$300 and Macau orders over MOP$200 ship free; see shipping fees and shipping, pickup and returns for details.

Related categories and further reading

• Supplements: the parent category for vitamins, probiotics and health supplements.
• Digestive health: probiotics, enzymes and digestive support products.
• Children health and women health: family and women-specific formulas.
• Immune and respiratory health: daily immune support products.

Probiotics — Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are probiotics, and how do they differ from prebiotics?

Probiotics are live bacteria for gut balance; prebiotics are fibres that feed them. This category has 22 products; check each product page.

Q2: How do I choose a probiotic?

Check CFU, strain names, format and prebiotics; higher CFU is not always better. This category has 22 products to compare.

Q3: When is the best time to take probiotics?

Most formulas are taken at a fixed time each day, with or without food; check the product label. Sensitive stomachs may prefer after a meal.

Q4: Do probiotics need refrigeration?

Some probiotics need refrigeration, others are shelf-stable; keep the pack sealed, dry and dark after opening. Check the product page.

Q5: Can children take probiotics?

Ask a doctor first and choose a product that states the age range; give it under adult supervision and follow the label dose.

Q6: Which probiotics suit women?

Women can choose women or vaginal-care formulas from Garden of Life RAW and NOW Foods; products are in our stores.

Q7: Can I take probiotics with antibiotics?

If you take antibiotics and probiotics, ask a doctor or pharmacist first; follow the product label for timing.

Q8: What are Yogourmet kefir and yogurt starters?

Yogourmet makes three 3 g sachet starters for kefir and yogurt at home; follow the pack timing and chill the finished ferment.

Q9: Powder or capsules — which is better?

Capsules are easy, powders mix into food or drink, and chewables suit kids; compare strains and dose. This category has 22 products.

Q10: Garden of Life, NOW Foods or Jarrow Formulas — which should I pick?

All three are US brands; compare formula, CFU and format by need — products are in our stores.

Q11: Where can I buy probiotics in Hong Kong or Macau?

Our Mong Kok and Macau stores let you buy in person; HK orders over HK$300 and Macau orders over MOP$200 ship free, or choose store pickup.

Q12: How do I know the products are genuine?

We are a No Fakes Pledge member of the Hong Kong IP Department; all goods are genuine, and product pages list brand and origin details.

Q13: Can probiotics be taken long term?

Probiotics can be taken long term, following the label dose; ask a professional if unwell. This category has 22 products.

Q14: Yogourmet or Cultures For Health — what is the difference?

Yogourmet uses 3 g sachets (six per box); Cultures For Health sells reusable kefir grains. Products are in our stores.