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.
