Lactobacillus sakei
Useful mainly for people with atopic dermatitis trying a strain-specific oral probiotic adjunct.
Quick decision guide
May help most
people with atopic dermatitis trying a strain-specific oral probiotic adjunct
Common dosing range
about 5 billion CFU/day orally (probio65 strain) for eczema
When to expect effects
Weeks
Watch out for
strain-specific; caution in severely immunocompromised people
What is it
Lactobacillus sakei (now Latilactobacillus sakei) is a lactic acid bacterium originally isolated from sake mash and traditionally found in fermented meat and vegetable products. Specific strains (notably L. sakei probio65 or vp-81) are used as probiotics for atopic dermatitis and chronic rhinosinusitis.
Is it worth it for you?
Use this as a quick fit check, not a diagnosis.
Worth considering if…
Probably skip if…
Evidence at a glance
| Goal | Effect | Best fit | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
atopic dermatitis (eczema) Good Evidence | Modest improvement in severity scores | people with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis using the probio65 strain | Weeks |
atopic dermatitis (eczema)
- Effect
- Modest improvement in severity scores
- Best fit
- people with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis using the probio65 strain
- Time
- Weeks
Evidence for 1 use
AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.
atopic dermatitis (eczema)
Supplement benefitRandomized controlled trials of oral L. sakei probio65 report reduced atopic dermatitis severity (e.g., SCORAD) versus placebo, plausibly by shifting the skin microbiome and reducing Staphylococcus aureus colonization. The effect is moderate and specific to this strain rather than probiotics in general.
Bottom line: The probio65 strain has reasonable RCT support as an adjunct for atopic dermatitis.
How it works
How to take it
What to track
2 commercial forms
Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.
L. sakei probio65 (oral capsule)
Branded strain studied for atopic dermatitis.
Reaches gut viable.
Intranasal L. sakei
Used in sinusitis studies.
Topical to nasal mucosa.
Safety
Know the common side effects, key cautions, and who should avoid it.
Common side effects
Who should avoid it
- severely immunocompromised individuals
- people with central venous catheters
- those advised against live probiotics by a clinician
Pregnancy & breastfeeding
Safety in pregnancy is not well established; consult a clinician.
Interactions
Food sources
| Food | Amount | %DV |
|---|---|---|
| Fermented meats | variable | — |
| Sauerkraut and other fermented vegetables | variable | — |
Fermented meats
- Amount
- variable
- %DV
- —
Sauerkraut and other fermented vegetables
- Amount
- variable
- %DV
- —
Choosing a product
What to look for on the label — and what to be skeptical of.
Look for…
Be skeptical of…
Frequently asked questions
Will L. sakei improve my eczema?⌄
Several trials suggest benefit, particularly with the probio65 strain. Consistent daily use over 8 to 12 weeks is typical.
Is it the same as other Lactobacillus species?⌄
No. Each Lactobacillus species and strain has specific evidence; benefits do not transfer broadly.
References by claim
Track Lactobacillus sakei with Pilora
Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.
Coming to App StoreDisclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.