In addition to the wide range of research published on the microbial population of the gut, the microflora populations of several other bodily niches are now being progressively explored. Many lines of evidence suggest an influence for both commensal and transient microbes in the status of human health and relating to the risk of contracting certain diseases. MICROBIOTA 2011 will bring together academic experts and industry leaders to discuss and debate their experiences relating to the latest discoveries and research on the human microbe population and the implications of these findings on the development of health and wellbeing products for consumers.