Quick answer
Akkermansia muciniphila is a species of bacteria that naturally lives in the human gut, in the mucus layer of the intestine. It was first described in 2004 by researchers in the Netherlands. Akkermansia supplements are measured in AFU (active fluorescent units) rather than CFU.
Type
A gut bacterium
Name origin
Named after microbiologist Antoon Akkermans; muciniphila means mucus-loving
First described
2004, the Netherlands
Measured in
AFU (active fluorescent units)
Where does Akkermansia live?
Akkermansia muciniphila lives in the mucus layer that lines the intestine. Its name reflects this: "muciniphila" means "mucin-loving", and mucin is the main protein in that layer.
Why are Akkermansia supplements measured in AFU?
Most probiotics are counted in CFU (colony forming units), which counts bacteria that grow on a lab plate. Akkermansia is difficult to grow this way, so manufacturers often use flow cytometry, which counts bacterial cells using fluorescence. The result is reported as AFU, or active fluorescent units. Read more in CFU and AFU Explained.
Featured in this guide
MAYN Akkermansia Muciniphila 1 Billion AFU with Prebiotic Inulin, 60 capsules
How is Akkermansia different from regular probiotics?
| Akkermansia | Common probiotics | |
|---|---|---|
| Examples | Akkermansia muciniphila | Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium |
| Count unit | AFU | CFU |
| Found in fermented foods? | Not typically | Often (yoghurt, kefir) |
| Often paired with | Prebiotic fibre such as inulin | Varies |
What is prebiotic inulin?
Inulin is a type of soluble fibre found in foods such as chicory root, onions, garlic and asparagus. It's a prebiotic, meaning a fibre the bacteria in your gut can use. MAYN Akkermansia combines Akkermansia with prebiotic inulin in one capsule.
Tip: Probiotic labels should show the strain and the count per serve. Store as the label directs, as some probiotics need to be kept cool.
Frequently asked questions
Is Akkermansia a probiotic?
Akkermansia muciniphila is a gut bacterium sold as a supplement, and it's commonly grouped with probiotics. It's measured differently, in AFU rather than CFU.
What does 1 billion AFU mean?
It means the product contains around 1 billion bacterial cells per serve, counted using flow cytometry.
Can I get Akkermansia from food?
Akkermansia isn't usually found in fermented foods. It naturally lives in the gut, and supplements provide it directly.
Keep reading
This article is general information only and is not medical advice. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Dietary supplements should not replace a balanced diet. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, speak with your doctor or pharmacist before taking a new supplement.
