BENEO, one of the leading manufacturers of functional ingredients, has announced a significant expansion for its chicory root fiber production facility in Chile by 2022, funded by an investment of more than 50 million Euro.

Derived from chicory root, inulin and oligofructose, are two of the very few clinically proven plant-based prebiotic fibers.

The prebiotic found in PB2’s newest product, inulin, is a soluble dietary fiber that provides both functional and nutritional benefits, such as fiber fortification and the facilitation of calorie and sugar reduction. Inulin also promotes overall digestive health and enhances calcium absorption.

BENEO’s inulin and oligofructose are obtained from chicory root via a gentle hot water extraction. This natural production process clearly distinguishes them from other fibers, which are made indigestible by chemical and enzymatic modifications. 

We're currently experiencing a Gut Health revolution. Once a closed-door topic, having a healthy digestive system is now at the forefront of nutrition concerns of the American consumer. The near-universal recognition of the importance of gut health to a reduced risk of certain metabolic issues and diseases, and to increased overall health and well-being, is driving makers of better-for-you foods and beverages to focus not only on probiotics but on the prebiotic ingredients needed to feed and maintain them.

The study, conducted by Prof Tamàs Decsi, University of Pécs, Department of Paediatrics, Clinical Center of the University of Pécs, Medical School in Hungary, is the first of its kind to provide an in-depth investigation into the effect of prebiotic chicory root fiber supplementation on the gut microbiota composition of children aged 3 to 6 years, including those undertaking antibiotic treatment. 

To date, no organic inulin from chicory is available. With the latest ongoing developments, BENEO will be able to offer inulin derived from chicory root fiber at a reasonable and competitive price premium compared to organic inulin from other sources.

The root of the chicory plant is the natural source of the inulin and oligofructose ingredients that Sensus produces.