CDS22 vs VSL#3: Original De Simone Formulation Comparison (UK Guide)
CDS22 vs VSL#3: Original Formulation Comparison for UK Customers
Many people in the UK search for “VSL#3 original formulation”, “VSL#3 alternative UK”, or “what happened to VSL#3”. This guide explains, in plain language, how CDS22-formula and today’s VSL#3 are related, how they differ, and what that means if you are trying to stay close to the original De Simone Formulation.
This is an independent, factual overview to help you make an informed choice. It does not provide medical advice or treatment recommendations.
CDS22-formula contains the original De Simone Formulation that used to be sold as VSL#3. Today’s VSL#3 in the UK uses a different formulation. If you want the original formulation used in older research, you are looking for CDS22-formula; if you want the modern VSL#3 brand, you are choosing the newer recipe.
Quick Summary: CDS22 vs VSL#3 at a Glance
- History: For many years, VSL#3 was made with the De Simone Formulation, a specific 8-strain blend developed by Prof. Claudio De Simone.
- Change: After a business split, the product sold as VSL#3 changed formulation, while the De Simone Formulation continued separately under different brand names.
- Today: In the UK and EU, the original De Simone Formulation is available as CDS22-formula.
- VSL#3 now: The product currently sold as VSL#3 uses a different strain combination from the original formulation.
- Legal context: A US court found that the product sold as VSL#3 after the split was not the original De Simone Formulation that had been used in the earlier research.
- Practical takeaway: If you are specifically looking for the original De Simone Formulation, CDS22-formula is the product aligned with that formulation today, while VSL#3 represents a different, newer formulation.
1. The History Behind VSL#3 and the De Simone Formulation
VSL#3 was originally created using the De Simone Formulation, an 8-strain probiotic blend designed by Prof. Claudio De Simone. This formulation was used in a number of published clinical studies and became widely known under the name VSL#3.
Later, the commercial relationship between Prof. De Simone and the original VSL#3 marketers ended. At that point:
- The brand name “VSL#3” stayed with the original marketers.
- The De Simone Formulation remained with its inventor and began to be distributed under new brand names in different countries.
A US court ruled that the product sold as VSL#3 after the split was not the same formulation as the original De Simone Formulation used in the earlier research, and that the newer VSL#3 should not be marketed as if it were that original formulation.
The practical result is that, today, the name “VSL#3” and the original De Simone Formulation refer to different products.
2. What Is CDS22-formula?
CDS22-formula is a high-strength probiotic product that contains the De Simone Formulation — the same combination of strains originally used in VSL#3 during the period when the De Simone Formulation was in place.
Key features of CDS22-formula:
- Formulation: Uses the original De Simone Formulation (8 specific strains).
- Strength: 450 billion CFU per sachet.
- Format: Box of 12 sachets.
- Manufacturing: Produced in Europe under controlled conditions.
- UK supply: Distributed in the UK through authorised channels, including Probiotic.co.uk.
- Stability: Stored refrigerated long term; remains stable at room temperature for a limited period during transit when correctly packed.
CDS22-formula is intended for adults and should be used in line with the manufacturer’s instructions and any advice from a healthcare professional.
3. What Is VSL#3 Today?
VSL#3 is still available as a high-count probiotic in the UK, in formats such as powder and capsules. However, the formulation used today is not the original De Simone Formulation.
Key points about today’s VSL#3:
- Formulation: Uses a different strain combination from the De Simone Formulation.
- Brand continuity: Retains the VSL#3 brand name, but not the original formulation behind that brand during the earlier research period.
- Formats: Available as different strengths and pack types (for example, sachets and capsules).
- Availability: Sold through pharmacies, online retailers, and other healthcare channels.
Because the strain profile is different, VSL#3 and CDS22-formula should be understood as two distinct products, even though both are multi-strain, high-strength probiotics.
CDS22 vs VSL#3: Side-by-Side Comparison
This comparison is for UK customers who search for terms like “VSL#3 original formula”, “VSL#3 alternative UK” and “CDS22 vs VSL#3”.
| Feature | CDS22-formula | VSL#3 (current formulation) |
|---|---|---|
| Formulation origin | Original De Simone Formulation developed by Prof. Claudio De Simone. | Newer formulation introduced after the split from the inventor. |
| Strain profile | 8 specific strains that match the De Simone Formulation used in earlier research. | A different multi strain blend that does not replicate the original formulation. |
| CFU per sachet | 450 billion CFU per sachet. | High count probiotic. CFU amount varies by product format. |
| Pack size | 12 sachets per box. | Pack size depends on product. Earlier sachet packs often contained 10 sachets. |
| Clinical heritage | Uses the same formulation (De Simone Formulation) that was the basis of the original VSL#3 research before the split. | Does not use the original De Simone Formulation; studies on the earlier formulation do not automatically apply to the newer recipe. |
| Legal context | Marketed as containing the De Simone Formulation, aligned with court findings that distinguished it from later VSL#3 products. | US court findings held that the newer VSL#3 should not be represented as the original De Simone Formulation. |
| Positioning in the UK | For people who want the original De Simone Formulation that was once sold as VSL#3. | For people who prefer the current VSL#3 brand and its newer formulation. |
| Where to buy in the UK | Available from Probiotic.co.uk and selected partners. | Available from pharmacies, online retailers and other outlets. |
5. What UK Customers Search For About VSL#3 and CDS22
VSL#3 Original Formula vs New Recipe:
Many UK searches for ‘VSL#3 original formula vs new’ are simply trying to confirm whether today’s VSL#3 is still made with the original De Simone Formulation.
In addition, Search behaviour in the UK shows strong interest in questions like:
- “Is VSL#3 the same as before?”
- “What happened to VSL#3?”
- “VSL#3 original formula vs new”
- “VSL#3 alternative UK”
- “De Simone Formulation UK”
- “CDS22 vs VSL#3”
Behind these searches is a simple concern: people want to know whether the product on the shelf today is still the same as the one used in older studies and whether there is a way to stay aligned with the original De Simone Formulation.
6. Stability, Packaging, and Delivery in the UK
CDS22-formula
CDS22-formula is produced with careful attention to stability, storage, and distribution. While long-term storage is refrigerated, the product is designed to remain stable for a limited period at room temperature during shipping.
- Cold-chain handling: Packed with appropriate insulation and cooling materials for shipment.
- UK delivery: Dispatched from within the UK via tracked services.
- Shelf stability in transit: Formulated to tolerate a short period at room temperature without loss of quality when correctly handled.
VSL#3
VSL#3 uses its own packaging and storage requirements, which may differ by format and country. Customers should follow the storage instructions on the VSL#3 packaging and consult the information provided by the manufacturer or pharmacy.
In both cases, always read the label and follow the storage guidance provided with the product.
7. How to Choose Between CDS22 and VSL#3
Choosing between CDS22-formula and VSL#3 is not about which product is “better” for a medical condition. That is a discussion for you and your healthcare professional. Instead, most people in the UK focus on formulation history, strain profile, and personal preference.
Questions to ask yourself
-
Do you specifically want the original De Simone Formulation?
If yes, CDS22-formula is the product that uses that formulation today. -
Are you attached to the VSL#3 brand?
Then you may prefer to stay with the modern VSL#3 formulation available in pharmacies and online. -
Do you care about matching older research as closely as possible?
If your priority is to stay aligned with the original formulation evaluated in earlier research, CDS22-formula is the closer match in terms of formulation. -
Do you value pack size and strength per sachet?
CDS22-formula offers 450 billion CFU per sachet in a 12-sachet box. VSL#3 products differ by pack and format. -
Have you discussed probiotics with a clinician?
If you are under specialist care, bring the names of both products to your healthcare team and ask which option is most appropriate for you.
Whichever product you choose, probiotics should be used as part of a broader plan agreed with a healthcare professional, especially if you have a diagnosed medical condition or are taking other medicines.
8. CDS22 vs VSL#3 – Frequently Asked Questions (UK)
Is CDS22 the same as the original VSL#3 formulation?
CDS22-formula contains the De Simone Formulation, which is the original 8-strain blend that used to be sold under the VSL#3 name before the business split. The newer VSL#3 formulation does not use this original blend.
Is VSL#3 still made with the De Simone Formulation?
No. Court findings have confirmed that the product sold as VSL#3 after the split is not the original De Simone Formulation. The formulation and the brand name are now separate.
Is CDS22-formula a VSL#3 alternative in the UK?
Many UK customers searching for a “VSL#3 alternative” are specifically looking for the original formulation that was once sold as VSL#3. In that sense, CDS22-formula functions as an alternative for people who want to stay aligned with the De Simone Formulation.
Which is stronger, CDS22 or VSL#3?
CDS22-formula provides 450 billion CFU per sachet in its standard sachet format. VSL#3 strength depends on the specific product and format, so you should compare the CFU values on the actual pack you are considering.
Is CDS22-formula available in the UK?
Yes. CDS22-formula is available in the UK through authorised distributors including Probiotic.co.uk, which offers cold-chain handling and tracked UK delivery.
Can this guide replace medical advice?
No. This article is for information only. It is not medical advice and does not replace guidance from your GP, pharmacist, or specialist. If you are considering any probiotic for a medical condition, speak to a healthcare professional first.
9. Final Overview: Which Product Fits Your Situation?
If you are in the UK and your main goal is to stay aligned with the original De Simone Formulation that was once sold as VSL#3, then CDS22-formula is the product that matches that formulation today.
If you prefer the current VSL#3 brand and its newer formulation, and you are comfortable with that change, then you may choose to continue with VSL#3 as supplied through pharmacies and online outlets.
In all cases, your choice should be made together with a healthcare professional who understands your medical history, current medicines, and overall treatment plan.
If you want to understand the science behind the formulation, see:
• What Is the De Simone Formulation?
• What Happened to Vivomixx* Probiotic? Is It Still Available in the UK?
• The Ultimate Guide to Probiotics in the UK: Benefits, Types & How to Choose?
10. Where to Buy CDS22-formula in the UK
Probiotic.co.uk is an authorised UK retailer of CDS22-formula. When you order from Probiotic.co.uk, you benefit from:
- Supply from an official UK distributor of CDS22-formula.
- Cold-chain aware packing and fast, tracked delivery.
- 12-sachet box format with 450 billion CFU per sachet.
- Clear, transparent product information and support.
You can view the product range here: CDS22-formula original De Simone Formulation in the UK
About the Author
Darren Grant is the founder of Probiotic.co.uk and an experienced specialist in UK and EU probiotic retail and regulatory standards. Darren has overseen the distribution of clinically validated probiotic formulations, including the De Simone Formulation, across both UK and Irish markets.
He works directly with manufacturers, clinicians, microbiome researchers and regulatory bodies to ensure accuracy in consumer information relating to probiotics, strain composition and formulation integrity.
Scientific References & Sources
This article has been fact-checked for accuracy and updated for current UK product information.
Last reviewed: December 2025