A clinical study investigating vitamin K2-producing probiotics has been nominated for the Dutch James Lind Award 2026 in the Research category. Conducted by researchers from Amsterdam UMC and Maastricht University in collaboration with Winclove Probiotics, the study was selected by an independent academic jury.
Recognition for innovative research
The nominated study explored whether specific probiotic strains that naturally produce vitamin K2 can contribute to improving vitamin K status. The nomination recognises both the scientific quality of the research and the strength of the collaboration between academic researchers and industry partners in advancing new knowledge.
New insights into the microbiome and vitamin K
Vitamin K plays an important role in several processes in the body, including cardiovascular health. While vitamin K is primarily obtained through diet, researchers are increasingly interested in the role of the gut microbiome in vitamin K production. The study provides promising indications that carefully selected bacterial strains may contribute to the body’s vitamin K supply and opens new perspectives for future research.
Science and collaboration in action
The nomination highlights the value of science-based innovation and demonstrates how collaboration between academia and industry can lead to meaningful scientific advances. By combining expertise in microbiome science, nutrition and clinical research, the project contributes to a growing understanding of how probiotics may support human health.
“This nomination is special because the research brings together the microbiome, nutrition and nutritional supplements in an innovative way. It explores whether specific vitamin K2-producing bacteria can contribute to improved vitamin K status, offering a new perspective on the development of evidence-based nutritional supplements. I hope this research will encourage further investigation into microbiome-targeted supplements and contribute to a future in which nutritional supplements are increasingly developed and evaluated on the basis of robust clinical evidence.”
Public voting now open
In addition to the jury’s assessment, public votes account for 50% of the final result. Voting for the Dutch James Lind Award is open until 1 October 2026.
