With major shortages of INULIN, could you consider Fructooligosaccharides as an alternative?
While FOS is commonly added to beverages, syrups, and foods, as a sweetener, there are also many benefits of consuming FOS including:
Prebiotic
Complex FOS are considered prebiotics. Not to be confused with probiotics, a prebiotic helps feed the good bacteria in the intestine. FOS are often used in baby formula to help feed the beneficial bacteria that the intestines need.
Source of soluble fibre
Increasing the levels of s in the diet from FOS has been shown to reduce or eliminate digestive issues, such as constipation or diarrhoea. This regulatory effect may also be caused in part by FOS feeding the good bacteria in the colon.
Lowers cholesterol
A recent review found that FOS can reduce cholesterol levels in animal studies. Introducing FOS into a calorie-restricted diet also helped these animals to reduce weight gain. This same paper also noted the likelihood that FOS supplementation is good for lowering cholesterol in humans, as well.
Reduces blood sugar
FOS may also be great news for people with diabetes. A recent study noted the potential ability of FOS to help balance a person’s blood sugar. The researchers observed a positive correlation between FOS intake and decreasing serum glucose levels. FOS usage also seemed to stimulate insulin secretion in the pancreas.
Processing properties of FOS as an Ingredient
- Sweetness of FOS is 0.3‐0.6 times of sucrose
- FOS is more soluble in water than sucrose
- FOS does not crystallise or leave a dry or sandy feeling in the mouth
- Viscosity is higher than sucrose
In very acidic conditions with significant enough exposure times and temperatures, FOS may hydrolyse into fructose.
Redox can supply all your Oligosaccharides needs, If you’d like to know more, please contact one of our industry specialists today.
