Prebiotics
Prebiotics are specialized non-digestible substrates that selectively stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial gut microbiota, particularly Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli. By modulating the composition and function of the gut microbiome, prebiotics play a critical role in enhancing metabolic processes, immune regulation, and intestinal barrier integrity. They are commonly derived from oligosaccharides such as inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and are often utilized in synergy with probiotics to optimize gut health and systemic well-being.
Beta Glucan
Beta-glucans are natural polysaccharides found in the cell walls of fungi, yeast, bacteria, and cereals like oats and barley. They consist of glucose molecules linked by β-glycosidic bonds, which make them biologically active. Beta-glucans are well-known for their immune-modulating and antioxidant properties.
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Key Properties:
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Activates macrophages and other immune cells, enhancing the body’s natural defense system.
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Has prebiotic effects, promoting the growth of beneficial gut microbiota.
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Improves overall health and resistance to infections.
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Applications:
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Animal Healthcare:
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Enhances immune responses in livestock and poultry, reducing susceptibility to diseases.
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Promotes faster recovery from infections and reduces the need for antibiotics.
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Improves feed efficiency by maintaining gut health and reducing inflammation.
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Nutraceutical Industry:
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Supports immune system function in humans, especially during times of stress or illness.
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Helps reduce cholesterol levels by binding to bile acids, improving cardiovascular health.
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Acts as a dietary fiber, supporting gut health and promoting regular bowel movements.
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Mannan Oligosaccharides (MOS)
Mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) are a type of prebiotic derived from the cell walls of yeast, particularly Saccharomyces cerevisiae. They consist of mannose-containing sugars that are indigestible by the host but highly beneficial for gut health.
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Key Properties:
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Binds to and inhibits the colonization of pathogenic bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella in the gut by acting as a decoy receptor.
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Enhances the growth of beneficial gut bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
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Improves gut barrier function and reduces intestinal inflammation.
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Applications:
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Animal Healthcare:
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Reduces the risk of gastrointestinal infections in livestock and poultry by blocking harmful bacteria.
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Enhances feed efficiency, growth performance, and overall gut health.
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Promotes immune system development in young animals, particularly in weaning piglets and chicks.
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Nutraceutical Industry:
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Supports gut health by promoting a balanced microbiota, reducing bloating and digestive discomfort.
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Strengthens the immune system, particularly in individuals with compromised gut health.
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Used in dietary supplements and functional foods aimed at improving digestive health and boosting immunity.
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Beta Mannanase
Beta Mannanase is an enzyme that breaks down mannans, a type of non-starch polysaccharide commonly found in animal feed ingredients like soybean meal and palm kernel meal. By hydrolyzing mannans, it reduces their anti-nutritional effects.
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Key Properties:
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Improves digestibility and nutrient absorption.
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Reduces viscosity in the gut, enabling better feed passage and nutrient uptake.
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Applications: Widely used in animal feed formulations to enhance feed efficiency and improve the growth performance of livestock, particularly poultry and swine.
Cellulase
Cellulase is an enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of cellulose into glucose or shorter polysaccharides. Cellulose is a primary structural component of plant cell walls and is not digestible by most animals.
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Key Properties:
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Enhances the digestibility of fibrous feed ingredients.
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Converts complex carbohydrates into simpler, more absorbable forms.
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Applications: Added to livestock and poultry feed to improve energy availability from fibrous feed ingredients like wheat bran or rice husk. In the nutraceutical industry, cellulase is included in digestive enzyme formulations for humans.