Global and Australian industry leaders unite to advance probiotic science, education, and quality standards
3 February 2026 – The International Probiotics Association (IPA) and Complementary Medicines Australia (CMA) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on advancing probiotic research, education, and quality standards across the global complementary medicines sector.
The partnership brings together IPA’s global expertise in probiotic science and regulation with CMA’s leadership in the Australian complementary medicines industry, representing manufacturers, raw material suppliers, researchers, brands, and retailers across the supply chain.
“This collaboration represents a significant step forward in elevating the scientific and regulatory standards for probiotics worldwide,” said George Paraskevakos, Executive Director of IPA. “By combining IPA’s international reach with CMA’s deep expertise in the Australian market, we can better serve healthcare professionals, industry stakeholders, and ultimately consumers seeking evidence-based probiotic solutions.”
John O’Doherty, CMA Chief Executive Officer, added: “Australia has long been a leader in complementary medicine regulation and quality standards. This partnership with IPA allows us to share our expertise while learning from global best practices, ensuring Australian industry members have access to the latest scientific knowledge and regulatory developments in the rapidly evolving probiotics sector.”
Under the MOU, the two organizations will collaborate on:
- Hosting and conducting workshops on pre, pro, and postbiotics
- Exchanging technical and scientific knowledge through member education programs
- Participating in joint seminars and industry conferences
- Developing resources to help industry distinguish probiotic dietary ingredients
- Promoting harmonization of probiotic regulations based on scientific criteria
- Developing common positions on topics related to probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics
- Stimulating knowledge exchange on research, development, and innovation
The partnership is particularly timely given the growing consumer interest in gut health and the microbiome, with the global probiotics market expected to continue significant growth in the coming years.
“This collaboration will help ensure that as the market grows, it does so on a foundation of robust science, clear quality standards, and evidence-based education,” said George Paraskevakos IPA’s executive director. “Both organizations are committed to promoting the safe and efficacious use of probiotics, and this partnership amplifies our ability to achieve that mission.”
The MOU establishes a framework for cooperation while maintaining each organization’s independence, with activities subject to mutual agreement and available resources.
About the International Probiotics Association (IPA)
The International Probiotics Association is a global non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the safe and efficacious use of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics throughout the world. IPA works with government bodies and industry to establish scientific standards for biotic ingredients, supplements, and functional foods, while educating regulators, healthcare professionals, industry stakeholders, and consumers on proven health benefits.
About Complementary Medicines Australia (CMA)
Complementary Medicines Australia is the peak industry body representing stakeholders across the complementary medicines supply chain in Australia, including manufacturers, raw material suppliers, researchers, and retailers. CMA advocates for evidence-based policy and regulation that supports consumer access to safe, high-quality complementary medicines.
Media Contacts
George Paraskevakos
Executive Director
george@internationalprobiotics.org
info@internationalprobiotics.org
Complementary Medicines Australia
media@cmaustralia.org.au
