DEFINITION

Streptococcus thermophilus (formerly known as Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophilus) is a lactic acid-producing, Gram-positive, cocci-shaped, non-spore-forming, facultatively anaerobic bacterium that is homofermentative. Cells are non-motile, commonly found in linear chains. Suitable cryoprotectants may be added to the concentrated bacteria following fermentation, after which the product is frozen and freeze-dried. The formulated product may be blended with suitable diluents and/or bulking agents. It contains NLT 100% of the labeled viable cell count of the specified strain of Streptococcus thermophilus.

• Strain St-21: Streptococcus thermophilus St-21 (ATCC SD-5207) is a pure, specific strain of Streptococcus thermophilus. It is a non-d-lactate producer strain.