7 Best Non-Refrigerated Probiotics (Which is Better?)
The increasing inclination of the general population towards probiotics for disease prevention and cure instead of relying on traditional medication is evident from a recent forecast predicting that the global probiotic market for gut health may increase to 2.1 billion dollars in 2027 from 1.1 billion dollars in 2020.
Hence, manufacturers are constantly upgrading their products, such as making them temperature-resistant to make them more desirable due to their longevity.
Considering this, I’ve compiled a list of the 7 best non-refrigerated probiotics containing an efficacious blend of shelf-stable strains that can help you lose weight, boost immunity, and improve your gut health.
My 4 top picks are:
- YourBiology gut+ – Best for both men and women (from personal experience)
- Biotics 8 – Best suited for men.
- Culturelle Metabolism + Weight Management Capsules – Best For Weight Management
- Optibac pregnancy probiotics – Best for pregnant and nursing women.
How to Pick the Best Non- Refrigerated Probiotics?
Apart from being refrigerated or non-refrigerated, some other factors that you should consider before finalizing your decision are cost, allergens, benefits and disbenefits, dosage form, probiotic strains, and their CFUs.
No Refrigeration Needed
Non-refrigerated probiotics have a reputation for being low maintenance yet extremely effective.
The reason is that they can be feasibly stored and taken anywhere, and they are also less susceptible to losing viable CFUs before reaching your small intestines.
In contrast, refrigerated probiotics are easily perishable, and you can never know if the optimum quantity of viable probiotics was delivered to your gut or not.
Therefore, I will recommend that you prefer non-refrigerated probiotics over refrigerated options because the former indisputably carries greater benefits.
Cost
The more the product has to offer, the higher its cost will be. Hence, refrigerated probiotics are going to cost more than non-refrigerated ones.
The reason behind this is that there are only a limited number of heat-resistant strains of good bacteria, and hence, manufacturers use advanced and patented technologies like MAKKTrek or HPMC capsules to protect the usual strains against environmental stresses.
Therefore, the cheapest option that you may get may cost around $ 20.
Besides that, a larger variety of refrigerated probiotics is available in the range of $30 to $50.
Still, the most expensive yet effective refrigerated probiotics may cost as much as $80.
In the subsequent sections, I have compiled a list of economical, moderately priced, and high-end probiotic pills for you to choose from.
Allergens
If you have any allergies, then it is extremely crucial to look out for potential allergens because they may be manufactured in facilities containing nuts or may have dairy-derived probiotics.
Some examples of ingredients that have the potential to trigger allergic reactions include dairy, eggs, gluten, corn, nuts, shellfish, and peanuts.
In addition, some individuals may prefer non-genetically modified organism (GMO) supplements that do not contain artificial colors, dyes, chemicals, or preservatives.
This product information can greatly influence your decision about buying the product.
Benefits and Disbenefits
You may be investing in a probiotic supplement for imparting a specific health benefit like weight loss or aiding digestion.
Hence, the benefits of the product may also serve as a criterion for your purchase.
It is also wise to overview the potential risk that it may carry and its suitability in different medical conditions or ages because this may also cancel out many options available out there.
For instance, most probiotics are not suitable for children below 14 years of age, while others are specifically formulated for children above 4 years.
Similarly, many probiotics carry risks for pregnant or nursing mothers, while on the other, certain manufacturers have come up with products that have a clear benefit for them.
Dosage Form
Probiotic supplements are available in many different forms, like tablets, capsules, powders, gummies, etc.
Generally, capsules are more effective in delivering viable CFUs to your small intestine, but it may be easier to consume powder or liquid probiotics while traveling.
Therefore, considering the dosage form and instructions on intake will also help you make a better choice.
Probiotic Strains and CFUs
The probiotic strains and their viable CFUs are what make or break the probiotic reputation.
You should essentially look for supplements in which the viable CFUs of good bacteria range between 1 billion CFUs and 10 billion CFUs because supplemental bacteria within this range are known to confer solid benefits.
Additionally, instead of proprietary probiotic blends, products that showcase clinically approved and FDA GRAS probiotic strains should be your preferred choice.
One indication of non-refrigerated probiotics is that it contains spore-forming Bacillus species which are internally resistant to the environment.
In the next section, I have shared my recommendations for some of your individual needs that I hope you’ll find helpful.
7 Best Non- Refrigerated Probiotics
The following list includes different options for men, women, kids, IBS sufferers, weight-conscious individuals, pregnant women, and for supporting immune function.
1. YourBiology Gut + (Best For Women & Men)
CFU: 40 billion CFUs
Dosage: You must take two capsules daily, one in the morning and the other before bed.
Probiotics Strains: 4 species
- 3 Lactobacillus species (L. acidophilus, L. Plantarum, L. Paracasei)
- 1 Bifidobacterium specie (B. Lactis)
Form/Type: capsule
Certifications: It is manufactured in cGMP-certified facilities.
Storage: It is shelf-stable and does not require refrigeration.
Cost: One bottle contains 60 capsules that will last 30 days and will usually cost you $79.99.
The best part about the YourBiology Gut + probiotic is that each capsule delivers the exact CFU of the viable bacteria to the gut as is mentioned on the label.
Here is an overview of how Your biology gut + improves women’s health and remains shelf stable.
The Probiotics Are Protected By MAKTrek Technology: The manufacturers employ the cutting-edge MAKTrek bipass technology that encapsulates the probiotics in algal polysaccharides, which protects them from stomach acid and delivers them directly to the intestines.
Improves Women’s Overall Well-Being: Apart from that, this supplement contains the scientifically acclaimed Lactobacillus species and the FDA GRAS Bifidobacterium lactis strain that are beneficial in re-establishing a healthy vaginal microflora, combating the symptoms of IBS, regulating bowel movements and SIBO, improving skin texture, weight management, immunity, and cognitive health.
Optimizes Gut Functioning: Additionally, it contains the fructooligosaccharide fiber, which nourishes the existing gut commensals while simultaneously supporting the colonization of the good supplemental bacteria.
Lastly, the prebiotic fiber also aids glucose metabolism and promotes bowel regularity.
Pros:
- Improves feminine health, immunity, weight loss, and gut health.
- Vegan, non-GMO, allergen (dairy, soy, gluten), and preservatives free.
- Does not require refrigeration.
- The MAKTrek technology enables 250 times better survival and absorption of the
- Manufactured in cGMP-registered facilities.
- 60-day money-back guarantee and free delivery.
- Contains prebiotic fiber.
Cons:
- Not recommended for ages below 18 years and pregnant or nursing women.
- Cannot be bought from other online or physical stores.
- May cause side effects like stomach upset and gas.
Where to buy:
- You can order a bundle or a single bottle from only the official website here.
- As mentioned above, the non-discounted price of a single bottle is $79.99.
- Whereas you can purchase a bundle of 3 bottles for $239.97 and 5 bottles for $399.95.
2. Biotics 8 Probiotics (Best For Men)
CFU: 20 billion CFUs
Dosage: You have to consume its 3 capsules every morning.
Probiotics Strains: 10 species
- 7 Lactobacillus species (L. casei, L. paracasei, L. plantarum, L. fermentum, L. longum, L. acidophilus, L. rhamnosus)
- 1 yeast specie (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)
- 2 Bifidobacterium species (B. longum, B. breve)
Form/Type: capsule
Certifications: It is produced in cGMP-certified facilities.
Storage: It does not require refrigeration and is shelf stable.
Cost: You can buy a one-month supply (90 capsules) of Biotics 8 at a retail price of $79.99.
The Biotics 8 probiotic stands out from its counterparts because it contains digestive enzymes that prevent stomach issues and aids digestion.
Here is why Biotics 8 probiotic pills stand out from their counterparts and are protected from environmental stresses.
The HPMC Technology Ensures Optimal Delivery Of The Probiotic Strains: Moreover, the manufacturers make use of the HPMC technology that makes the pill-resistant to dissolution in the stomach acid and safely treks it to the intestines.
It is worth mentioning that HPMC capsules are stronger than conventional gelatin capsules.
Prevents Gastrointestinal Side Effects: The digestive enzymes, namely protease, amylase, and lipase, help to break down the macronutrients, which cut the problem of indigestion by the root.
Additionally, it prevents the development of gastrointestinal problems like bloating, diarrhea, or nausea, which are common with other probiotic supplements.
The mechanism that works behind this is that the supplemental bacteria in probiotic supplements may initially over-populate the gut.
These bacteria then rush to digest the food which releases gas as a by-product and may cause gastrointestinal side effects.
Boosts Men’s Overall Health: This product contains probiotics with proven effectiveness in improving testosterone levels, IBS symptoms, fat loss, mental well-being, and digestion.
What is more, is that the Biotics 8 supplement specifically caters the men’s needs, not just with the probiotics but also with added vitamin D, which supports male fertility and muscle development.
Normalizes Gut Function: It also has prebiotic fiber derived from chicory root and inulin, which will feed the gut-friendly bacteria while simultaneously regulating blood sugar levels and bowel movements.
Pros:
- Targets men’s health and improves testosterone levels, mood, immunity, and digestion.
- A vegan supplement, free from allergens (gluten, soy, dairy) and preservatives.
- Shelf-stable.
- Does not cause gas or stomach discomfort.
- Contains digestive enzymes.
- Protects the probiotics in HPMC capsules.
- Contains prebiotic fiber.
- Upholds a 60-day money refund policy and free delivery.
Cons:
- It is not available at online marketplaces or walk-in stores.
- It may not be feasible to consume 3 capsules first thing in the morning every day.
Where to buy:
- You can purchase the Biotics 8 probiotics only from their official website.
- A single bottle will cost you $79.99.
- Correspondingly a bundle of three bottles will come for $239.97 and five bottles for $399.95.
3. Culturelle Metabolism + Weight Management Capsules (Best For Weight Management)
CFU: 12 billion CFUs
Dosage: You have to take one capsule daily.
Probiotics Strains: 2 strains
- 1 Lactobacillus strain (L. rhamnosus GG)
- 1 Bifidobacterium strain (B. animalis subsp. Lactis)
Form/Type: capsule
Certifications: none
Storage: It can be stored outside refrigeration temperatures.
Cost: A bottle contains 30 capsules and costs $25.99.
The Culturelle probiotics populate the gut microbiome with bacteria that promote weight shedding without causing any adverse effects.
Here is how Culturelle will help you lose a few inches and allow shelf storage.
Probiotics are stored in Environment Resistant Vials: The gelatin capsules are stored in a container that has desiccant embedded in its walls, which absorbs moisture.
Hence, it prevents damage to the protective coat around the probiotics even if you open and close the lid multiple times and ensures their viability at room temperature.
Induces Weight-Loss Without Stimulants: It is better than other weight-loss supplements because nearly all of them work by stimulating the sympathetic nervous system to induce weight loss which poses many risks.
Furthermore, studies prove that L. rhamnosus GG prevents fat accumulation, whereas B. animalis ssp. Lactis reduces abdominal obesity and waist circumference in overweight subjects.
Additionally, it has B vitamins, which mediate the body’s mechanisms of energy production.
Pros:
- Triggers weight loss without caffeine and stimulants.
- Has FDA GRAS probiotic strains.
- Contains vitamins B6 and B12.
- Vegetarian-friendly and free from sugar, GMOs, or allergens (gluten, tree nuts, peanuts, dairy, soy).
- The packaging is walled by a desiccant which protects the capsules.
- Does not require refrigeration.
- Has a 60-day return policy.
- Free- delivery.
Cons:
- Proprietary blend of probiotics.
- It is not vegan.
- Has magnesium stearate, which may cause stomach upset.
Where to buy:
- It can be bought from the official website here, the Amazon store, and nearly all physical stores such as Walmart, Target, Walgreens, Costco Wholesale, CVS Pharmacy, Kroger, etc.
- The price of online purchase of the Culturelle probiotic may vary on the official site and online stores.
- For instance, purchasing it online from Walmart will cost $36.49 and $25.99 on the official site.
CFU: 1 billion CFUs
4. Optibac Pregnancy Probiotic (Best During Pregnancy)
CFU: 12 billion CFUs.
Dosage: One capsule has to be taken once daily, ideally with breakfast. In case you find it difficult to swallow the capsule, you can consume it by dissolving the contents in cold food.
Probiotics Strains: 3 strains
- 2 Lactobacillus strains (L. rhamnosus HN001, L. acidophilus La-14
- 1 Bifidobacterium strain (B. lactis HN019)
Form/Type: capsule
Certifications: It has won the Janey Loves 2020 platinum award.
Storage: It does not require refrigeration unless at extremely hot temperatures.
Cost: A bottle of 30 capsules costs $24.99. Plus, you will also have to pay standard shipping charges of $4.99 for standard delivery within the US or $6.99 for express delivery.
Most probiotics are not recommended for pregnant or nursing women, but Optibac is one of those few brands that are specially tailored to cater to the needs of new mothers.
This reputation is evident from a survey of 1,000 British women and the user reviews that are posted on the official website.
Here is why Optibac is a favorite among new mothers and how it remains sustainable outside refrigeration temperatures.
Prevents Sickness In New Mothers: The reason why this product is most loved by women may be that it has only those probiotic strains that have been proven in clinical trials to repopulate the gut and vaginal microflora and boost immunity.
Many pregnant women have reported that this product reduced their symptoms of bloating, gas, and abdominal pain, and for others, it prevented the incidence of thrush and other infections.
Improves Gastric Motility: Furthermore, it has fructooligosaccharide fiber which may help to relieve constipation which is a common concern among over 39% of pregnant women.
Pros:
- Contains strains that boost the well-being of pregnant and nursing women.
- Vegan, GMO-free, free from allergens (dairy, gluten), artificial colors, or flavors.
- Contains prebiotics.
- Available on both the official and Amazon stores.
Cons:
- Free delivery can only be availed on orders over $100.
- The return or exchange offer is only valid for 14 days.
- Unavailable on the US Amazon store.
Where to buy:
- It can be bought from the official website or Amazon for just $24.99.
5. Probulin My Little Bugs Total Care Probiotics (Best For Kids)
CFU: 5 billion CFUs
Dosage: Manufacturers recommend that children take one tablet daily, preferably before going to bed.
Probiotics Strains: 15 species
- 7 Lactobacillus species (L. fermentum, L. acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, L. reuteri, L. brevis, L. helveticus, L. bulgaricus)
- 3 Bifidobacterium species (B. longum, B. lactis, B. bifidium)
- 1 yeast specie (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)
- 3 Pediococcus species (P. acidilactici, P. pentosaceus)
- 1 Propionibacterium species (P. freudenreichii)
- 1 Streptococcus specie (S. thermophilus)
Form/Type: chewable tablets
Certifications:
- It is third-party tested.
- It is manufactured in NSF certified cGMP facility.
Storage: It is shelf-stable and does not require refrigeration.
Cost: You can purchase a bottle containing 30 tablets for $26.99, but standard shipping charges will also be applied to it.
The majority of probiotic supplements are designed for adults only, but Probulin has made sure that our little ones can enjoy the benefits of taking good microbes as well.
After all, a well-established gut microflora boosts overall health and immunity, and children are more susceptible to diseases.
Here is why Probulin is good for kids and how it retains effectiveness even when not refrigerated.
The Maktrek 3-D Technology Ensures Viability Of Probiotics: It uses the intelligent MAKTek 3-D technology in the tablets, which preserves the probiotic strains until they reach the gut by protecting them inside marine polysaccharides, keeping them well-fed and well-hydrated with prebiotics and electrolytes.
Tested And Created By Certified Experts: Considering how delicate children are, the pills are formulated in collaboration with board-certified doctors and then undergo third-party lab testing to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Promotes Gut Health: It contains prebiotic fiber and the patented postbiotic MAKTabolite, both of which amplify the growth and colonization of the probiotics in the gut.
Kids love it: Its delicious watermelon flavor, bug-shaped pills, and bug stickers in the box make quite an incentive for kids to try it out.
Pros:
- Protects and maintains the children’s gut health and provides hydration.
- Children above 4 years of age can take it.
- Has a prebiotic and a patented postbiotic.
- Available in watermelon flavor.
- Contains no GMOs, allergens (dairy, soy, gluten, nuts, shellfish), artificial flavors, sweeteners, or colors.
- Offers a 45-day money-back guarantee.
- Has vitamin C and electrolytes.
- Uses the more accurate flow cytometry to count the bacterial CFUs.
- Does not have magnesium stearate, which may cause gastrointestinal side effects.
Cons:
- Free delivery is applicable only to orders above $50.
Where to buy:
- It is available on both the official website or Amazon ( currently out of stock) or at physical stores like Walmart.
6. Align Probiotic Supplement 24/7 Digestive Support (Works For Managing IBS Symptoms)
Dosage: You have to take one capsule every day.
Probiotics Strain: 1 strain
- 1 Bifidobacterium strain (B. longum subsp. longum 35624)
Form/Type: capsule
Certifications:
- It won the 2010 Gold Edison Award for health innovation.
- It is the number one doctor-recommended probiotic according to the ProVoice 2008-2022 survey.
Storage: It has a 24-month shelf life and does not require refrigeration but should be stored below 30°C.
Cost: Its price varies depending on where you buy it from, but a pack of 14 capsules may cost between $20-$23. Additionally, standard shipping charges may also apply to online purchases.
The Align probiotic is developed with the Bifidobacterium strain that is proven to ameliorate IBS.
Here is why it is worth a try if you have IBS and it doesn’t have to be stored in the fridge.
The Probiotics Are Enclosed In HPMC Capsules: The probiotic strain is protected in HPMC capsules which is a vegan alternative to gelatin capsules.
Not just that, additional protection is conferred by the microcrystalline cellulose, which reduces maximum moisture penetration.
Hence, you don’t have to stress about leaving it on the shelf overnight.
Employs a Science-Backed Approach To Control IBS: It contains the FDA GRAS probiotic strain, which may help to relieve abdominal discomfort, bloating, and gas which are three of the most common IBS symptoms.
For instance, in one study, women who were suffering from IBS were fed different doses of B. infantis 35624. The best improvement was seen with a dose of 108 CFUs.
Correspondingly, Align also delivers a similar viable CFU (107 CFUs) to the intestine.
Apart from that, research has also reported its benefit in reducing inflammation in the gut.
Pros:
- Best for improving digestive health and IBS symptoms.
- Free from gluten and soy allergens.
- Probiotics are protected in HPMC capsules and with microcrystalline cellulose.
Cons:
- Not available on the official website.
- Contains titanium oxide (color) and magnesium stearate.
- Contains milk.
- Contains artificial sugar sucrose.
Where to buy:
- It can be purchased from Walgreens or Amazon and is unavailable on the official website.
- A pack of 14 capsules will cost you $22.99 at Walgreens and $21.49 on Amazon.
7. Jarrow Formulas On-The-Go Immune Booster (Works To Strengthen Immune System)
CFU: 1 Billion CFUs
Dosage: It has to be consumed once a day.
Probiotics Strain: 1 specie
- 1 Bacillus specie (B. subtilis)
Form/Type: powder
Certifications:
- The brand holds the cGMP and non-GMO certification by NSF.
- Plus, it is certified organic by USDA and QAI.
Storage: It does not require refrigeration but should be stored in a cool, dry place.
Cost: You can purchase 14 packets for $19.99.
The Jarrow formulas immune booster powder probiotic is unique because it has a convenient dosage form that can be swallowed anywhere and has a bacteriophage blend.
Here is how it boosts health and sustains room temperature.
The Spore-forming Bacteria Makes It Shelf Stable: The spore-forming B. subtilis DE111 bacteria is resistant to stomach acid, which ensures optimal delivery of viable cells and colonization in the intestines.
Correspondingly, more than 30 trials have reported that it is effective in reducing inflammation and strengthening the intestinal barrier and immune system reaction.
Contains More Potent And Safer Bacteriophage Prebiotics: Unlike the traditional fiber prebiotics, the bacteriophage blend doesn’t upset the stomach, and just 15 mg of it starts working within a few hours.
Pros:
- Boosts immune function and digestion.
- Cost-effective.
- Vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free.
- Travel-friendly and melts on the tongue without water.
- Comes in orange and other flavors.
- Has bacteriophages and inulin as a prebiotic.
- Does not cause digestive discomfort, bloating, or gas.
Cons:
- Free shipping is only done for orders over $59.
- May not be suitable for pregnant or nursing women and ages below 18 years.
Where to buy:
- It is available at both the official website and the Amazon store for around $19.99.
Related: Shelf Stable Probiotics Vs. Refrigerated Probiotics
FAQs
Which probiotics do not need to be refrigerated?
Probiotics that are protected inside heat-resistant or delayed-release polysaccharide capsules can effectively survive room temperatures. Apart from that, the spore-forming bacteria or capsules that are stored in moisture and temperature-resistant containers may not need refrigeration as well.
Are non-refrigerated probiotics effective?
Yes, non-refrigerated probiotics that are protected in solid capsules with special technologies remain effective.
What is the best probiotic on the shelf?
Some examples of the best shelf-stable probiotics are Your biology gut + and Biotics 8.
What is the difference between probiotics in the fridge and not in the fridge?
Probiotics in the fridge are not heat-stable, and they may get killed at high temperatures. This will cause the product to become ineffective. Probiotics that can be stored outside the fridge are protected such that they remain viable at room temperature.
Are chilled probiotics better?
No, chilled probiotics are more susceptible to losing viability due to temperature fluctuation, so non-refrigerated probiotics are easier to transport and store and are more effective.