A polysaccharide from yogurt fermented by Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus: Structural characteristics and its alleviative effect on DSS-induced colitis in mice

•A novel polysaccharide (EPS-1) isolated from yogurt and characterize its structure.•EPS-1 reduces gut mucosal damage, inflammatory factors, and restores SCFAs levels.•EPS-1 restores gut flora disorders and maintains the balance of gut flora.•In situ production of EPS-1 in yogurt shows potential as a functional food.