BENEO highlights how its Orafti® β-Fit and chicory root fibre solutions can help manufacturers respond to growing demand for gut health, satiety, heart health, fibre enrichment and sugar reduction.
Chicory root fibres are scientifically proven prebiotics, backed by over 30 years of studies. More than 50 human intervention studies have shown their ability to support a healthy microbiota and selectively increase Bifidobacteria. Research demonstrates how 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. Scientific evidence for inulin and oligofructose from chicory roots continues to grow, while other potential prebiotic candidates still lack comparable scientific evidence.
Consumer appeal keeps rising
Studies show that 77% of global consumers are (extremely) interested in fibre, which ranks as the top ingredient and nutrient associated with gut health in food and beverage products. In addition, 2 in 3 consumers worldwide have heard of the term “prebiotic”, highlighting increasing awareness of the role of the gut microbiome.
Fibre has become one of the most in-demand nutrients. However, its health benefits are not only about quantity, but also about choosing the right fibres. Different fibres vary in structure, functionality and benefits. Thoughtfully combining different fibre types can therefore deliver a variety of health benefits.
The fibre wave: How manufacturers can take the lead
BENEO’s fibre range offers versatile solutions, enabling brands to seize key market opportunities through benefit-driven innovation:
- Nourishing the gut microbiota with natural chicory root fibre
Prebiotics from chicory root (fructans) 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. Proven effects go beyond digestive health, including weight management² and mood improvement.
- Promoting a healthy heart 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.
- Boosting fibre, reducing sugar with chicory root or scFOS
Prebiotic fibre from chicory root and short-chain fructo-oligosaccharides (scFOS) from sugar beet enable brands to replace sugar, and in some cases fat, while simultaneously boosting dietary fibre content and lowering calories. Chicory root fibre offers the additional advantage of a proven prebiotic effect at intakes from 3 g/day.
The fibre opportunity goes far beyond adding more grams to the label. By selecting fibres for their specific, science-backed benefits, manufacturers can address multiple consumer needs while delivering meaningful nutritional value. BENEO’s diverse fibre portfolio provides the versatility to turn the fibre wave into credible, benefit-driven innovation. Because when it comes to fibre, what you add matters as much as how much.
