Bugs are now your friends. Especially the 100 trillion of them that live in your microbiome. Consumers are now starting to understand that a balanced microbiome, with both probiotics — the live bacteria and yeasts found in foods like yogurt — and prebiotics— the non-digestible carbohydrates that help them thrive– are both essential for healthy digestion and overall good health. It’s little wonder that digestive health is a hot topic. Mintel data suggests that more than 80% of Americans experience some kind of gastrointestinal issue. But nearly one-third now believes that probiotics can prevent these problems and are essential for overall digestive health. While yogurt is still the poster child for probiotics, this dynamic duo is on a roll. Interest in additional bacteria-containing foods, such as sauerkraut, kombucha and kefir, are at an all-time high. Even better, you can now snack on nuts, puffs and chocolate enhanced with probiotics or get your daily dose of pre- and probiotics in combo supplements and drink mixes. Can microbiome-friendly cocktails be far behind?