The present invention describes a process for the manufacture of a solid composition comprising a microorganism, which process comprises a first step of blending and/or compacting the microorganism with a salt of a medium or long-chain fatty acid to prepare a powderous mixture or compacted granulate, and a second step of providing said powderous mixture or compacted granulate with a coating. The microorganisms are preferably probiotics. The invention also relates to the solid composition obtained by said process and to its use in food.