BENEO’s prebiotic Orafti® Inulin and Oligofructose offer scientifically proven, plant-based solutions for manufacturers seeking to improve gut health, increase fibre content and reduce sugar without compromising product quality.
Naturally sourced, scientifically proven prebiotics
Derived from chicory root, BENEO’s Orafti® Inulin and Oligofructose combine natural origins with more than 30 years of scientific research, providing manufacturers with versatile ingredient solutions that deliver measurable nutritional benefits.
More than 50 human intervention studies have demonstrated the ability of chicory root fibres to support a healthy gut microbiota by selectively stimulating beneficial Bifidobacteria. Research shows that daily intakes starting at just 3g can significantly increase these bacteria across different age groups, supporting digestive health and overall bowel function.[i]
Unlike some other fibres on the market, BENEO’s chicory root fibres meet the internationally recognised scientific definition of proven prebiotics according to ISAPP (International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics). They belong to the very few proven prebiotics that meet all ISAPP criteria for a prebiotic and are the only plant based proven prebiotics.
The ingredients are extracted from chicory roots using a gentle hot-water process, resulting in naturally sourced, plant-based fibres suitable for numerous food applications. Their scientific credentials also support opportunities for approved health claims, subject to regional regulations.
Versatile functionality for healthier formulations
Beyond their established prebiotic benefits, Orafti® fibres offer manufacturers considerable flexibility in product development, particularly when addressing consumer demand for reduced-sugar, fibre-enriched and lower-calorie foods.
Orafti® Inulin provides valuable texturising and bulking properties, making it suitable for replacing sugar and, in certain applications, fat while maintaining desirable mouthfeel and texture. Meanwhile, Orafti® Oligofructose offers high solubility and natural sweetness, supporting sugar reduction without sacrificing sensory appeal.
BENEO highlights opportunities to achieve sugar reductions of up to 30% in selected bakery applications, alongside increased dietary fibre content. The ingredients can be incorporated into bread, cakes, biscuits, cereal bars, chocolate, confectionery and dairy alternatives.
Their versatility enables manufacturers to develop products that combine indulgence with improved nutritional profiles, responding to growing consumer interest in digestive wellbeing and healthier everyday foods.
By combining proven prebiotic functionality, natural plant-based origins and practical formulation advantages, BENEO’s Orafti® chicory root fibres represent a compelling ingredient innovation for the evolving market of better-for-you products within the bakery and snacks industries.
[i] Nagy DU, Sándor-Bajusz KA, Bódy B, Decsi T, Van Harsselaar J, Theis S & Lohner S (2022) Effect of chicory-derived inulin-type fructans on abundance of Bifidobacterium and on bowel function: a systematic review with meta-analyses. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition. Published 14 July 2022, DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2098246
