Abstract: The invention relates to new isolated Lactobacillus strains chosen from Lactobacillus mellifer Bin4N.sup.T (LMG P-28344) and Lactobacillus apinorum Fhon13N.sup.T (LMG P-28345), which have been isolated from honeybees or their processed food. The bacterial strains have unique properties such as production of benzene, free fatty acids and 2-heptanone, rendering them useful in many areas such as in food and beverage products, feed products and medical products.
Abstract: A method of enhancing the antimicrobial properties of a bacterial strain, comprising cultivation of the bacterial strain in a medium comprising water, at least one component chosen from bee pollen, pollen, and bee bread, and optionally honey and/or nectar is described. The bacterial strain has the ability to be viable for at least 8 days in a 65% by weight sugar solution, preferably at least 8 days in a 70% by weight sugar solution.