Positive Results of Clinical Study Using Cosucra’s Prebiotic Inulin Announced by Cargill

23/07/07 A recent clinical study, conducted by Cosucra Groupe Warcoing, indicates that Cosucra’s prebiotic inulin helps promote healthy intestinal bacteria and reduces the activity of an enzyme which may be linked to development of colon cancer. Cargill holds exclusive marketing rights in North America for Cosucra’s inulin that sells under the brand name of Oliggo-Fiber inulin.

The double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, published in the journal Nutrition Research, found that after four weeks of consuming 2.5 grams of inulin twice daily, there was a 10-fold increase in counts of beneficial Bifidobacteria among healthy volunteers. Those consuming inulin also experienced a noted decrease in activity of beta-glucuronidase, an enzyme that may play a role in increasing the amount of carcinogens in the colon. The placebo group did not experience either benefit.

“The study results provide yet another reason for North American food manufacturers to select Cargill’s Oliggo-Fiber inulin as their preferred source of soluble fiber,” said Christine Cerkvenik, Oliggo-Fiber inulin product manager, Cargill. “Previous studies have indicated that in addition to promoting digestive health, prebiotic inulin also may boost calcium absorption, making it appropriate for women and teens concerned about bone health. It also has a negligible effect on the body’s glycemic response, making it suitable for use in a diabetic diet.”