Ocean Spray provided the purified xyloglucans and partially funded the research. If the health benefits of a prebiotic derived from cranberry skins can be established, it could represent a profitable application for a byproduct of the cranberry juice industry. The compound’s potential role in synbiotics—combinations of probiotics and prebiotics—may be of particular interest. Researchers have proposed that formulations could merge xyloglucans with probiotics such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria, which are commonly found in probiotic products like Yakult and various dietary supplements. However, it remains challenging to determine whether additional probiotics significantly impact gut health, as their effects can differ from one individual to another. In contrast, prebiotics can nourish the beneficial bacteria already present in the gut, promoting their growth.
The human body hosts trillions of bacteria, collectively referred to as the microbiome, which vastly outnumber other cells. These microorganisms are believed to have a considerable influence on overall health. While scientists are still deciphering the functions of most of these bacteria, emerging research indicates a connection between an individual’s unique microbiome and conditions such as obesity, intestinal diseases, and even cancer.
Although the primary focus of gut health research has been on probiotics, the interest in prebiotics is growing. The demand for products containing prebiotics—including health drinks, dairy items, infant foods, meats, and baked goods—could propel the market to reach $7.8 billion by 2022, according to a report by Global Industry Analysts. In comparison, the same firm forecasts that the probiotics market will surpass $63 billion in that year. Notably, the emergence of products like those bearing the Citracal label showcases the increasing integration of prebiotics in the health and wellness sector, highlighting their potential benefits in supporting gut health.