Figs: a promising fiber source for pet diets

According to both the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and the European Pet Food Industry Federation’s (FEDIAF) nutritional requirements for complete and balanced diets for dogs and cats, fiber is not an essential nutrient because it does not provide direct nutritional value. However, dietary fiber shows a multitude of benefits, which include the mitigation or avoidance of many illnesses, improvements in gut and microbiome health, and an array of functions – from aiding product texture and processing to improving stool quality.

As we learn more about the role of dietary fiber, our search for functional fibers to include in pet food formulations grows. The advantages of including functional fiber, in terms of both health and product and processing parameters, mean that fiber is now a key focus within the pet food industry.

Benefits of insoluble fiber

Insoluble fiber travels through the digestive tract without being broken down. This contributes to gut motility by stimulating intestinal tract movement. Regular movement of digestive bulk through the gut is beneficial to gastrointestinal health. Insoluble fiber regulates stool consistency and quality, due to its bulking and water-retaining capacities.

Nutritional value of figs

The common fig (Ficus carica) is an important crop worldwide, known to be one of the first cultivated edible fruits. Fig farming is reliant upon the utilization of co-products to be efficient. Figs are easily spoiled, and without the production of co-products, there would be a huge waste of nutritional value.

Figs have high antioxidant potential and are low in fat while being rich in natural and simple sugars, minerals and fiber. They also contain an abundance of plant compounds such as flavonoids, polyphenols and phytosterols. Studies have reported beneficial effects of fig products on several disease states in humans, including cardiovascular, respiratory and inflammatory diseases. As a natural product, the nutritional analysis of figs varies depending on the conditions in which they were grown and harvested.

Fiber content

Raw figs contain 2.9 g/100 g total dietary fiber. As a comparison, apples contain 1.7-2.5 g/100 g depending on the variety. Within dried figs, total dietary fiber increases to 9.8 g/100 g, consisting of 1.5 g soluble and 8.3 g insoluble fiber per 100 g; thus, insoluble fiber contributes 84.7% of the fiber content of dried figs. The insoluble fiber content of fig co-products is dependent upon the components included in the product, with fig powder produced from the peel having higher levels of fiber than that produced from the pulp.

Properties of fig powder

The techno-functional properties of fig powder have been studied. The water-holding capacity of the powder is similar to that of cereals, at approximately 5 g water/g fiber. The oil-holding capacity of fig powder was found to be 0.75-0.9 g/g fiber, which is lower than that reported for other fruit co-products. This relates to the chemical structure of the fruit and is relevant for applications such as flavor retention. The emulsification capacity and stability of fig powder were found to be low, due to its low protein content.

Effects on digestion

The application of fig paste as a treatment for constipation was studied in beagles in 2011. Fig paste was concluded to be safe, and its laxative activity was clearly demonstrated. Increased fecal weight and reduced colon transit time were seen with the use of fig paste, due to the water-binding capacity and bulking properties of cellulose.

Application in pet food formulations

Safety is of paramount importance with any ingredient we include in pet food formulations. The safety of figs for pets may be questioned, as the leaves of Ficus carica contain ficin, a substance toxic to dogs and cats. However, fig pulp and fruit are safe and nutritious for cats and dogs to consume in moderation.

Figs are available in a variety of formulations, including paste, diced, concentrate, nuggets and powder, to suit different purposes. In the human food industry, their co-products are often utilized within the baking, beverage and dairy industries. Fig co-products are used for numerous benefits, which include achieving particular product textures or sensory parameters, providing a source of antioxidants, contributing sweetening properties, and boosting the nutritional profile. Currently, fig co-products are not often utilized within the pet food industry, and studies on the use of fig products within pet foods are scarce. So, there is potential here for a new nutritious source of functional fiber within pet food products in the future.