What is Narine
An Armenian Probiotic Strain
with More Than 70 Years of History
Narine (Lactobacillus acidophilus Er-2 strain 317/402) is a distinctive probiotic strain rooted in Armenian microbiological research.
The strain was first isolated in Armenia in 1953 and formally registered in 1964. With a history spanning more than seven decades, Narine has been the subject of continuing scientific research and development.
From its Armenian origins, Narine's scientific journey continued through the Soviet era and later extended beyond Armenia, including research and development connections in Japan.
THE SCIENTIST BEHIND NARINE
Dr. Levon A. Yerzinkyan
Dr. Levon A. Yerzinkyan (1906–1991) was an Armenian microbiologist, professor, and Doctor of Biological Sciences whose work focused extensively on lactic acid bacteria and fermentation microbiology.
His scientific work began in the 1930s, and he continued studying and isolating local strains of lactic acid bacteria for many years. According to historical sources, he and his colleagues isolated numerous cultures and selected highly active strains for further study.
In 1953, Yerzinkyan isolated the strain that became known as Lactobacillus acidophilus Er-2 strain 317/402 — Narine. The strain was later formally registered in 1964.
His work became an important part of Armenia's microbiological research history and laid the foundation for Narine's ongoing scientific story.
Narine and Early-Life Nutrition
Narine has a long history in Armenia, where it was used in fermented-milk products for infants and children. Its story began with scientific research into lactic acid bacteria and their role in early-life nutrition.
In 1953, Dr. Levon A. Yerzinkyan and his colleagues isolated the strain that became known as Lactobacillus acidophilus Er-2 strain 317/402 (Narine).
Over the following decades, Narine continued to be studied and developed, becoming part of Armenia's distinctive probiotic research history.
NARINE DURING THE SOVIET ERA
From Armenia to a Wider Scientific Story
During the Soviet era, Narine became part of a broader scientific story that extended beyond Armenia. Historical accounts describe research and reported use in demanding environments, including space missions, the period following the Chornobyl disaster, and athletic research.
These chapters reflect the continuing scientific interest in Narine and its development across different fields and environments.
NARINE TODAY & TOMORROW
From a Distinctive Strain to New Possibilities
Today, Narine is available in a variety of forms and has been incorporated into dietary supplements and food products in Japan, the USA, Spain, Poland, and beyond.
Building on this international experience, we are continuing to explore new possibilities for Narine. Our future development plans include functional probiotic products, an elderly milk product with Narine as a main ingredient, and new Narine-based products made in Japan.
Our goal is to connect Narine’s long scientific history with thoughtful product development for modern life.