Please note that the English version of this text has been prepared with the assistance of AI, and in some instances, it may not have been subsequently reviewed or edited by the authors.
Scientists of the research and innovation project “SynGABA”, in cooperation with the Latvian beverage manufacturer SIA “Tālava”, are exploring opportunities to create new functional beverages that could be used in the future to support the gut microbiome and body recovery after increased exertion, stress, or the use of antibiotics.
“In the laboratory, we study the gut microbiome and model its reactions in a bioreactor. However, the value of science is most fully revealed when research results help solve real problems. Cooperation with a company that wants to build a product based on evidence rather than assumptions is an important way for knowledge to go from the laboratory to everyday consumption,” points out Dr. Ilze Elbere, Leading Researcher at the National Research and Innovation Institute (NRII) and Scientific Head of the “SynGABA” project within the biomedicine and photonics research platform “BioPhoT”.
“In the ”BioPhoT“ project ”SynGABA“ or ”Glutamine-driven synbiotic agent for microbiome-mediated GABA production", NIRI scientists are testing how various combinations of beneficial bacteria (probiotics) and specifically selected essential nutrients (prebiotics) affect the microorganisms dwelling in the intestinal tract and their metabolism. As a result, it is planned to develop a food or pharmaceutical product prototype that in the future could be used to support the recovery of the gut microbiome and the body after increased exertion, stress, or antibiotic use.
As consumer interest in product composition, origin, and scientific justification grows, manufacturers' interest in functional beverages, or the so-called smart drink inclusion in the assortment. Such scientifically formulated drinks are intended not only to quench thirst or for taste. They have added ingredients with a specific, research-backed dosage, effect, and intended benefit. For example, these can be drinks with added electrolytes, proteins or amino acids, caffeine, specific vitamins and minerals, or probiotics.
“In the international environment, we see that functional beverages are one of the fastest-growing segments. It is important to us that our products are scientifically grounded – so that the consumer can trust what is written on the packaging rather than just following trends. It is precisely in this area that the expertise of the researchers and SIA “Tālava” intersects. We are particularly pleased that we can build this cooperation with a research partner in Latvia,” emphasizes Guna Rubene, Business Development Manager at SIA “Tālava”.
In the European Union, high requirements are set for health claims; therefore, reliable and repeatable scientific evidence plays a crucial role in product development. Within the framework of the cooperation, researchers will perform microbiome and bacterial composition analysis in a laboratory environment in vitro experiments and bioreactor tests for gut microbiome modeling, metabolite analysis, and will develop a methodology for subsequent clinical validation, including the necessary bioethics procedures. Meanwhile, SIA “Tālava” will provide manufacturing and product development expertise in the project, more than ten years of experience in beverage production, as well as knowledge of international markets and export opportunities.
The parties plan to develop cooperation in two parallel directions. In the short term, it is planned to evaluate the possibility of developing the first functional beverage product based on already available scientific findings and by performing additional testing and validation in NIRI laboratories. Likewise, a long-term research direction will be established, focused on the development of new technologies and product solutions, as well as the attraction of international research and innovation funding.
To strengthen the interaction between Latvia's research and business sectors, in the coming months NIRI and SIA “Tālava” will refine their joint cooperation concept, define priority research issues, and evaluate the most suitable funding instruments, including national and European Union research and innovation programs.
About SIA “Tālava”
SIA “Tālava” is a Latvian beverage manufacturer founded in 2012, which specializes in the production of cider and functional beverages. The company uses natural, locally sourced raw materials in its production and operates in accordance with the principles of sustainability. A modern production facility and international export experience allow the company to combine quality with production scale.
By NIRI
The National Research and Innovation Institute (NIRI) unites the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis (LIOS) and the Biomedical Research and Study Centre of Latvia (BMC). Both institutes began operating as a single research organization on May 31, 2026.
NIRI conducts research in the development of new drugs, treatments, and diagnostic methods with the overarching mission to find solutions that help people live healthier and longer lives.
About BioPhoT“
“Biomedical and Photonics Research Platform for the Creation of Innovative Products” (“BioPhoT”) is implemented under the leadership of the National Institute of Research and Innovation, by the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science, University of Latvia, Institute of Solid State Physics of the University of Latvia, Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry, Food Safety, Animal Health and Environmental Science “BIOR”, Riga Stradins University and Riga Technical University.
Project No. IVPP-EM-Inovācija-2024/1-0002 “Biomedicine and Photonics Research Platform for Innovative Product Creation (BioPhoT)” is being implemented within the framework of the long-term national research program “Innovation Fund – Long-term research program,” financed by the Ministry of Economics.
