Question

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and other one labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms.
Reason (R): All Lactobacillus strains are probiotics.
In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below.

• A. Both (A) and (R) are true.
• B. Both (A) and (R) are false.
• C. (A) is true but (R) is false.
• D. (A) is false but (R) is true.

Hint:

Probiotic benefits are highly strain-specific. E.g., Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG is a probiotic, but other strains of the same species may not have any probiotic effects.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Probiotics are defined by the FAO/WHO as "live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host."

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate both statements:

• Assertion (A): Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms: This is True. They support digestive health, improve gut barrier function, and modulate the immune system.

• Reason (R): All Lactobacillus strains are probiotics: This is False. While many commercial probiotic strains belong to the genus Lactobacillus (e.g., L. rhamnosus GG), not every strain of Lactobacillus qualifies as a probiotic. To be classified as a probiotic, a specific strain must be scientifically tested and proven to survive gastric acidity, colonize the gut, and deliver documented health benefits. Many strains are simply starter cultures or wild environmental strains without probiotic properties.
Since Assertion (A) is true but Reason (R) is false, Option (C) is the correct choice.

Step 3: Final Answer
The correct choice is (C) because probiotic status is strain-specific and not a general property of all Lactobacillus bacteria.