Novel ingredients: chicory root fibre

Inulin

Inulin (or oligofructose) is a natural fibre produced by many plants. Plants make inulin to store energy. It is also important in the plant’s defence against the cold. Inulin is usually found in the roots of plants. More than 36,000 different types of plant contain inulin, including wheat, onions, bananas, garlic, asparagus, and chicory. Commercially, it is most often extracted from chicory roots.

Health benefits

Inulin has functional properties that benefit the health of humans and animals. It is a carbohydrate made from many units of fructose joined together (a polysaccharide). Due to specific bonding of the fructose molecules within inulin, which the enzyme systems in our digestive tracts are not able to break down, it acts as a dietary fibre. It boosts the fibre content of foods and promotes bowel health. With ‘natural’ sweetness, inulin in the form of chicory root fibre reduces the amount of processed sugar and fat needed within food products, and can help improve blood sugar management. Due to a low calorie content (half the calories of sugar), it supports weight loss and enhances the taste and texture of foods. 

Pet food

While many scientific studies show how inulin can benefit human health, there are fewer studies that explore effects of inulin in the diet of pets. However, the body of evidence in animals is growing. The use of chicory root fibre inulin in pet food is currently based on its proven functional benefits in humans; the evidence emerging from studies in pets indicates that these benefits also apply in animals.