Different fibres, different benefits: choosing fibre with purpose

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Chicory root fibres are scientifically proven prebiotics, backed by more than 30 years of research. Over 50 human intervention studies have demonstrated their ability to support a healthy microbiota and selectively increase Bifidobacteria. Research shows that chicory root fibre intake, starting at 3 g/day, promotes significant growth of Bifidobacteria in the gut microbiome across all age groups and improves overall bowel function.

The scientific evidence supporting inulin and oligofructose from chicory roots continues to grow, while other potential prebiotic candidates still lack comparable scientific backing. This strong body of research helps manufacturers distinguish proven prebiotics from ingredients for which the evidence is less established.

Consumer interest in fibre continues to grow. Studies show that 77% of consumers worldwide are (extremely) interested in fibre, which ranks as the top ingredient and nutrient associated with gut health in food and beverage products. At the same time, 2 in 3 consumers globally have heard of the term “prebiotic”, highlighting increasing awareness of the role of the gut microbiome.

But when it comes to fibre, quantity is only part of the story. Fibres differ in their structure, functionality and associated health benefits. Selecting the right fibre, or thoughtfully combining different fibre types, can therefore help manufacturers develop products with targeted nutritional benefits.

BENEO’s diverse fibre range gives manufacturers versatile solutions to respond to consumer demand and create products with meaningful benefits:

1. Supporting the gut microbiota with natural chicory root fibre
Prebiotics from chicory root are soluble dietary fibres that reach the large intestine intact, where they are completely fermented by beneficial bacteria. They support on-pack structure/function claims such as “promotes healthy gut bacteria” or “supports the vitality of healthy gut flora” at just 0.75 g/serving. Their proven effects extend beyond digestive health, including weight management and mood improvement.

2. Supporting heart health and satiety with barley beta-glucans
BENEO’s Orafti^® β-Fit is a wholegrain flour from barley. Its unique matrix of beta-glucans, arabinoxylans and cellulose delivers soluble, insoluble, fermentable and viscous fibre. Thanks to their viscous properties, these fibres naturally thicken and delay the passage of food through the GI tract, prolonging the feeling of fullness. Brand owners can leverage on-pack structure/function claims centred on enhanced satiety, natural appetite control and energy from whole grains, in addition to FDA-approved heart health claims. 

3. Increasing fibre while reducing sugar with chicory root fibre or scFOS
Prebiotic fibre from chicory root and short-chain fructo-oligosaccharides (scFOS) from sugar beet can help manufacturers replace sugar, and in some cases fat, while simultaneously increasing dietary fibre content and lowering calories. Chicory root fibre provides an additional advantage, with a proven prebiotic effect at intakes starting from 3 g/day.

The fibre opportunity goes far beyond simply adding more grams to the nutritional label. By selecting fibres according to their specific, science-backed benefits, manufacturers can address different consumer needs while delivering meaningful nutritional value.

BENEO’s diverse fibre portfolio, from proven prebiotic chicory root fibres to barley beta-glucans and scFOS, offers the versatility to turn growing consumer interest into credible, benefit-driven innovation. Because when it comes to fibre, what you add matters just as much as how much.