top of page
  • White Facebook Icon
  • White Twitter Icon

25 Most Popular Probiotic Foods and the Good Bacteria They Contain

A short look at America's favorite probiotics and their effects on Weight Loss

25 Most Popular Probiotic Foods and the Good Bacteria They Contain

Here is a list of the 25 most popular probiotic foods in America, along with the associated bacterial genera or species:


  1. Yogurt: Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis

  2. Kefir: Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, Leuconostoc, Saccharomyces, Acetobacter, Streptococcus

  3. Sauerkraut: Lactobacillus plantarum, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, Lactobacillus brevis

  4. Kimchi: Lactobacillus kimchii, Lactobacillus brevis, Leuconostoc spp., Weissella spp.

  5. Pickles: Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus delbrueckii, Leuconostoc mesenteroides

  6. Miso: Aspergillus oryzae, Lactobacillus spp.

  7. Tempeh: Rhizopus oligosporus, Lactobacillus spp.

  8. Natto: Bacillus subtilis

  9. Kombucha: Gluconacetobacter xylinus, Lactobacillus, Saccharomyces, Brettanomyces, Pichia, Zygosaccharomyces

  10. Sourdough bread: Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus sanfranciscensis, Candida milleri, Saccharomyces cerevisiae

  11. Buttermilk: Lactococcus lactis, Leuconostoc spp.

  12. Cottage cheese: Lactococcus lactis, Lactobacillus, Leuconostoc spp.

  13. Aged cheese (e.g., Gouda, Cheddar, Swiss): Lactococcus, Lactobacillus, Brevibacterium, Propionibacterium

  14. Kvass: Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus fermentum, Saccharomyces cerevisiae

  15. Brine-cured olives: Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus pentosus, Lactobacillus brevis

  16. Probiotic supplements: Varying strains of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Streptococcus, Saccharomyces, and others

  17. Milk Kefir: Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, Leuconostoc, Saccharomyces, Acetobacter, Streptococcus

  18. Viili (Scandinavian fermented milk): Lactococcus lactis, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, Lactobacillus spp., Streptococcus thermophilus

  19. Smetana (Eastern European cultured cream): Lactococcus lactis, Lactobacillus spp.

  20. Filmjölk (Swedish fermented milk): Lactococcus lactis, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, Lactobacillus spp.

  21. Yakult (fermented milk drink): Lactobacillus casei Shirota

  22. Lassi (Indian yogurt drink): Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Streptococcus thermophilus

  23. Poi (Hawaiian fermented taro): Lactobacillus, Pediococcus, Leuconostoc


  24. Kefir: Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, Leuconostoc, Saccharomyces, Acetobacter, Streptococcus

  25. Traditional sour pickles (Eastern European style): Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus delbrueckii, Leuconostoc mesenteroides



These 25 probiotic foods are commonly consumed in America and are known for their beneficial bacteria content. Consuming these foods can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn can promote better digestion, immune function, and overall well-being. The specific bacterial genera or species present in each food can vary depending on factors such as preparation methods, regional differences, and the presence of starter cultures. It's essential to choose probiotic foods that are prepared using traditional fermentation methods, as some commercially prepared versions may not contain live and active cultures.

HOLLAND CLINIC uses AI to Supercharge Your Care

See how we are using artificial intelligence (AI) to bring your care to a whole new level

Logo for Holland Clinic's new AI powered weight loss program

This website is intended to provide information about medical weight loss. However, no information presented here should be construed as medical advice. This website is for informational and educational purposes only. Before starting any weight loss program, it is important to consult with your health care provider to ensure the program is safe and appropriate for you. Your health care provider can provide personalized guidance, advice, and support to help you reach your weight loss goals. If you choose Dr. Holland as your provider, you should only follow the advice he gives you personally during your meetings with him and if you are uncertain about your care you should contact Holland Clinic and not rely on this website.

© 2024 by Holland Clinic, Inc.  All rights reserved

Holland Clinic
Medical Weight Loss Program
Mark J. Holland MD
2440 Louisiana NE, Suite 540
Albuquerque, New Mexico  87110
(505) 232-6818
bottom of page