Abstract: The viable cells of probiotics are emphasized for yoghurt and fermented foods. Not only viable cells but also non-viable cells products of probiotics have beneficial health effects. The non-viable cells of probiotics have showed similar clinical effects oni mprovingl actoset olerance,a llergicr hinitisa ndg astroenteritis asv iablec ells. Viable cellsa re strongert hann on-viable cells in stimulating immune system, anti-tumour capabilities and viginosis curing effects caused by Candida sp, yet weaker in removing aflatoxin. Currently most studies have been focused on viable cells of probiotic bacteria. Nevertheless, there has been some controversy on the functions of viable and non-viable cells. In the future it is suggested that double-blinded, placebo- controlled and randomised studies on the function of viable and non-viable cells of probiotics bacteria would be warranted to look for their differences and mechanisms.

Key words: probiotics, viable cells, non-viable cells, health effect