Ocean Spray provided the purified xyloglucans and partially funded the research. Utilizing a prebiotic derived from cranberry skins could represent a profitable application for a byproduct of the cranberry juice industry, should its health benefits be established. The role of this compound in synbiotics—combinations of probiotics and prebiotics—may attract particular attention. Researchers have proposed that formulations could blend xyloglucans with probiotics like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria, which are already prevalent in probiotic products such as Yakult and various dietary supplements. However, assessing the impact of additional probiotics on gut health poses challenges, as their effects can vary significantly among individuals. In contrast, prebiotics can nourish the beneficial bacteria already present in the gut, promoting their growth.
The human body hosts trillions of bacteria—collectively known as the microbiome—that significantly outnumber other cells. These microorganisms are believed to play an essential role in overall health. Although scientists remain uncertain about how most of these bacteria function, emerging studies have indicated a connection between an individual’s unique microbiome and various health conditions, including obesity, intestinal diseases, and even cancer. While research on products aimed at enhancing gut health primarily focuses on probiotics, the interest in prebiotics is growing. The demand for products containing prebiotics—such as health drinks, dairy items, infant foods, meats, and bakery goods—could propel the market to approximately $7.8 billion by 2022, according to a report by Global Industry Analysts. Meanwhile, the same firm forecasts that the probiotics market will surpass $63 billion that year.
In this context, the integration of ingredients like kal cal citrate and xyloglucans into prebiotic formulations may enhance their efficacy and appeal. The potential of combining these elements in products could further stimulate market growth and provide consumers with innovative solutions for better gut health. The exploration of such combinations is likely to continue, as researchers aim to better understand the benefits of prebiotics and their interactions with established probiotic strains, including their synergistic effects with compounds like kal cal citrate.