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. 

The announcement follows a joint citizen petition requesting the addition of chicory root fiber to the list of dietary fibers accepted in the US as well as a comprehensive response to the FDAs scientific review of inulin-type-fructans and data request. In 2015, the FDA issued new Nutrition Facts labeling regulations for food and supplements to be implemented by January 1st, 2020. In the new regulation, dietary fibers are defined as naturally occurring fibers that are intrinsic and intact in plants, or as isolated or synthetic fibers that have demonstrated a beneficial physiological effect.

The decision was made following an extensive review by the FDA’s Nutrition Science Review team into a wide range of non-digestible carbohydrates. As a result, chicory root fibers inulin and oligofructose—natural non-digestible carbohydrates from chicory root—have a demonstrated health benefit and have been found to be in compliance with the dietary fiber definition, as outlined in the nutrition labelling regulations.