Formulation, storage stability, and simulated gastrointestinal digestion of a next-generation nutraceutical combining Limosilactobacillus fermentum and Pilosocereus pachycladus (F. Ritter) cacti

Abstract Aim This study aimed to formulate and characterize a novel next-generation nutraceutical combining a mixture of Limosilactobacillus fermentum strains (139, 263, and 296) candidates for probiotic use and freeze-dried Pilosocereus pachycladus (F. Ritter) (facheiro) cladodes, focusing on its physical, physicochemical, and phytochemical properties, the survival and viability of L. fermentum, and the stability and performance of the nutraceutical under simulated gastrointestinal digestion over 90 days of controlled storage (13% relative humidity; 4 and 25°C). Method and results The nutraceutical had high contents of insoluble and soluble fibers, as well as antioxidant phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which supported the survival of L. fermentum strains during freeze-drying (>90%) and conferred protection under gastrointestinal conditions, with survival rates exceeding 50%. Among the storage conditions, refrigerated storage provided superior long-term stability, preserving bioactive compounds and the viability of L. fermentum cells. Simulated gastrointestinal digestion demonstrated effective delivery of antioxidant compounds and viable L. fermentum cells, even in the presence of low pH, digestive enzymes, and bile salts. Conclusion The combination of L. fermentum strains candidates for probiotic use and freeze-dried facheiro cladodes demonstrated technological stability and functional performance, highlighting facheiro cactus as a valuable bioresource for probiotic delivery. Further studies using advanced in vitro models, such as colonic fermentation, and preclinical trials are warranted to substantiate the health benefits of this nutraceutical.