Compositions comprising maltotriose are disclosed herein. In certain embodiments the compositions comprise maltotriose and at least one component whose function is subject to impairment by a dehydration process such as a live microorganism. Methods for inhibiting damage caused by dehydration are also disclosed herein. In particular embodiments the method includes preparing a composition comprising maltotriose and at least one component whose function is subject to impairment by a dehydration process and removing water from the composition by one or more dehydration processes.
