The present invention provides a method of controlling growth of unwanted microorganisms by limiting their access to manganese. More specifically, the present invention provides a method of inhibiting or delaying growth of yeast and mold by reducing the manganese concentration in a product which is preferably a food product. The invention also provides manganese scavengers and uses thereof to inhibit or delay fungal growth.

Described herein are methods and compositions for using microbial agents (probiotics) and agents that promote growth of certain microbes (prebiotics) for management (including prevention and treatment) of musculoskeletal disorders, including osteoporosis, osteopenia, Paget's disease, stunting, osteoarthritis, osteomyelitis, and delayed or non-union fractures. Also described herein are methods and compositions for using probiotics and prebiotics for management of inflammation, and symptoms of menopause.

The present invention relates to two new strains of lactic acid bacteria, Lactobacillus brevis DSM 33325 and Lactobacillus plantarum DSM 33326, to a new food composition, and to the process for the preparation thereof.