Core Viewpoint - The release of the national group standard for probiotics and related products marks a significant advancement in the regulatory framework, aiming to enhance quality control and international competitiveness in the probiotic industry [1][5][6] Group 1: Standard Overview - The standard, titled "Testing Methods for Probiotics and Products," was officially launched at the Fourth World Frontier Technology Conference in Beijing [1] - It encompasses technical specifications, quality requirements, and testing methods throughout the entire production and sales chain of probiotics, including strain identification, viable count determination, contamination detection, stability testing, and alignment with international standards [1] - The standard mandates that probiotic strains must have a clear taxonomic status and scientific naming, along with rigorous efficacy validation and safety assessment [1] Group 2: Technological Integration - The standard integrates advanced detection technologies such as whole genome sequencing (WGS) and flow cytometry, enhancing the scientific rigor of the testing methods [1] - It emphasizes the deep integration of biotechnology and testing methods, which is expected to promote collaboration between academia and industry, facilitating technological upgrades in the sector [3] Group 3: International Standards Reference - The drafting process of the standard extensively referenced international standards and guidelines from organizations such as the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC), ISO, FDA, and EFSA, ensuring strong scientific validity and operability [5] - The standard is designed to align with existing national food safety standards in China, which is anticipated to significantly boost the international competitiveness of Chinese probiotic products [5] Group 4: Implementation Timeline - The standard is set to be officially implemented in the near future, marking a new phase for the probiotic industry in China [6]