Prebiotics vs. Probiotics: Benefits & Uses in Food Manufacturing

Prebiotics vs. Probiotics: Benefits & Uses in Food Manufacturing

Prebiotic vs Probiotic Market Data

Current & Future Projections

global prebiotics probiotics market forecast graph

According to Skyquest, the global prebiotic market was valued at $7.99 billion USD in 2023 and is poised to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.9% to reach $24.26 billion USD by 2031. The U.S. prebiotic market, according to Future Market Insights​​, is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 10.5% through 2034.

Polaris Market Research estimates the global probiotic market, valued at $61.15 billion USD in 2021, to grow at a CAGR of 7.7% to reach $123.32 billion USD by 2030.


What are Prebiotics? What are Probiotics?

prebiotics probiotics comparison

When it comes to maintaining a healthy gut, prebiotics and probiotics both play important roles, but they work in different ways. Here’s a detailed look at each:

Prebiotics are indigestible fibers that can be found in certain foods.

These fibers can be found naturally in chicory root, bananas, garlic, sweet potatoes, leeks, onions, asparagus, Jerusalem artichokes and more.

Prebiotics are typically fibers or complex carbohydrates that cannot be broken down by your digestive system. These indigestible fibers, also known as prebiotics, are fermented by bacteria living in your gut, which is beneficial for healthy bacteria growth.

Probiotics are naturally occurring bacteria that can be found in already fermented foods. These foods include sauerkraut, yogurt, kombucha, miso, and more. They can help maintain or restore gut microbiota balance.

Prebiotics serve as food for probiotics, enhancing their efficacy and promoting a healthier gut microbiota.


Prebiotic Fiber Ingredients & Probiotic Information

For questions regarding prebiotic fiber sourcing & pricing, fill out the price request form linked below. For complete technical specifications and other ingredient inquiries, please contact one of our sales representatives.

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Advantages & Benefits of Prebiotics and Probiotics

the benefits of prebiotics and probiotics

Prebiotic Benefits

Gut Health Improvement

Can help to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria.

Enhanced Digestion

May aid in the reduction of symptoms of constipation.

Boosted Immunity

A healthy gut microbiota has the potential to enhance the body’s immune response.

Reduced Inflammation

May help in reducing systemic inflammation and the risks associated with chronic diseases.

Probiotic Benefits

Nutrient Absorption

Can help to efficiently absorb nutrients and break down food.

Immune Support

Has the ability to stimulate the immune system, helping to fight off harmful pathogens.


Prebiotic & Probiotic Beverages

In the beverage industry, both prebiotics and probiotics are becoming a popular addition to beverages, especially sodas.

Prebiotic sodas are carbonated drinks that contain prebiotic fibers that feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut, while probiotic sodas contain live, beneficial bacteria that can help support digestive health.

Popular prebiotic soda brands like Poppi use agave inulin as their prebiotic source, whereas others, like Olipop, use a combination of sources such as cassava root and chicory root.


Best Prebiotic and Probiotic Combination

Which is Better – Prebiotics vs Probiotics?

what are synbiotics

When prebiotics and probiotics are combined, they form a synergistic relationship known as synbiotics. Synbiotic products aim to improve gut health more effectively than either prebiotics or probiotics alone.

Enhanced Bioavailability

Synbiotics can improve the bioavailability of certain nutrients and minerals.

Improved Survival

Prebiotics help probiotics survive the harsh conditions of the digestive tract.

Individual Response

The effectiveness of synbiotics can vary from person to person, depending on the individual’s overall health and existing gut microbiota.

The overall efficacy of synbiotics depends on the quality and dosage of both the probiotic and prebiotic components. It’s important to choose high-quality products with clinically effective doses of both prebiotics and probiotics.


Ways for Food Manufacturers to Incorporate Synbiotics Into Food & Beverage Products

With the synbiotics market rapidly changing, ingredient buyers and product formulators are seeking out different methods of incorporating prebiotics and probiotics into their food and beverage products.

Below are a few select food and beverage products that can be formulated to include synbiotics:

Beverages

Juices: Synbiotics can be incorporated into fruit and vegetable juices. This process requires extra attention to ensure probiotic stability throughout the product’s shelf life.

Kefir: Since kefir contains natural probiotics, adding prebiotic fibers can turn this fermented milk drink into a synbiotic beverage product.

Smoothies: Ingredients like bananas, honey, or oats can be blended into smoothies, where they serve as a natural source of prebiotics.

Dairy

Cheese: Synbiotics can be added to soft cheeses like cottage cheese and cream cheese without altering their texture significantly.

Yogurt: Adding synbiotics to yogurt can create a functional food that offers potential gut health benefits. Live cultures in yogurt serve as probiotics, and inulin can be added as a source of prebiotics.

Functional Foods

Supplements: Synbiotics can be formulated into gummy vitamins or capsules, making them a convenient option for consumers seeking gut health benefits.

Choosing compatible synbiotic strains is crucial to providing the desired health benefits and improving market appeal for consumers.


Sources of Prebiotics & Probiotics

prebiotic and probiotic sources

Prebiotic Sources

Inulin

Found in asparagus, chicory root, garlic, onions, leeks, and bananas.

Fructo-Oligosaccharides (FOS)

Found in fruits, grains, and vegetables.

Galacto-Oligosaccharides (GOS)

Found in legumes and dairy products.

Resistant Starch

Found in unripe bananas, cooked & cooled potatoes, and whole grains.

Probiotic Sources

Fermented Foods

Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, tempeh, and kombucha.

Supplements

Available in various forms like capsules, tablets, powders, and liquids.


Ingredient Distributor & Supplier Information

For questions regarding prebiotic fiber pricing, fill out the price request form linked below. For complete technical specifications and other inquiries, please contact one of our sales representatives.

Contact A Sales Rep Price Request Form


Common Probiotic Strains

Lactobacillus

Found in yogurt and other fermented products. Believed to offer improvement in lactose digestion.

Bifidobacterium

Found in some dairy products. May improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other gut disorders.

Saccharomyces boulardii

A yeast that has the potential to help treat digestive issues.


Tips for Prebiotic & Probiotic Use in Food Manufacturing

prebiotic probiotic tips

Clear Labeling & Transparency

To help consumers understand the potential health benefits of prebiotics and probiotics, clear and informative labels offer transparency about the contents of the product.

Product Compatibility

Be sure to select prebiotics that integrate into the desired product formulation without negatively affecting appearance, taste, or texture.

Effective Dosage

To be effective in promoting optimal gut health benefits, the prebiotic content must be at a level that is scientifically proven to be effective. This measurement varies but is typically between 2.5 grams and 10 grams per serving, with the most common dosage being approximately 5 grams.

Formulation & Processing

Prebiotics should support the activity and growth of probiotics in synbiotic formulations. Manufacturing processes must adapt to preserve the integrity of prebiotics, especially those in high-pressure or high-temperature environments.

Regulatory Compliance & Quality Assurance

Product labels and health claims must comply with regulatory guidelines. Quality control measures must be implemented to ensure the consistency and efficacy of the prebiotic and probiotic content of each product.


About AIFI – A Leading Food & Beverage Ingredient Supplier & Distributor

food ingredient supply chainAt AIFI, we leverage our deep relationships with the top ingredient manufacturers around the globe to be a high-value partner to our clients. Consumers crave food and beverage products that include proper nutrition as well as delicious taste. We strive to offer our clients a wide range of ingredient options including non-GMO, gluten-free, organic, and fair trade. We maintain complete documentation for each ingredient we offer, allowing our customers transparency and peace of mind.

For more information about prebiotics, fiber ingredients, sourcing, pricing, or general inquiries, please contact AIFI using the link below.

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