What It Is
Xylo-Oligosaccharides (XOS) is a high-value natural prebiotic produced by enzymatic hydrolysis of xylan from plant fibers. Its core structure consists of β-1,4-linked xylose units with a unique C5 sugar backbone, which differentiates it from other C6 sugar-based prebiotics. The product appears as white to pale yellow powder with no visible impurities, a mild sweet taste and a characteristic aroma, and is available in two food-grade purity specifications: 70% and 95%.
Complying with ISO9001, HALAL, KOSHER and other international certification standards, XOS is made from non-GMO raw materials sourced from responsibly managed forests, ensuring eco-friendly and sustainable production.
Key Physicochemical Properties
Excellent acid and thermal stability, retaining functional activity under pasteurization, high‑temperature processing and acidic conditions.
High solubility and low viscosity, allowing fast dissolution in both hot and cold systems without influencing product texture or taste.
Low-calorie and low glycemic index, making it an ideal functional ingredient for healthy food and supplement development.
Core Benefits
Powerful Prebiotic Activity: Resists digestion in the upper gastrointestinal tract and reaches the colon intact, selectively promoting the growth of beneficial gut microbiota such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli, maintaining intestinal flora balance and supporting digestive health.
Metabolic Health Support: Aids in improved absorption of minerals like calcium and magnesium, helps regulate blood glucose levels and optimize lipid metabolism, contributing to overall metabolic wellness.
Enhanced Immune Response: Balanced intestinal microecology strengthens the intestinal barrier function, which in turn boosts the body’s natural immune defense.
Clean Label Advantage: As a plant-derived, non-GMO ingredient, it supports fiber fortification of products without adding extra calories, meeting the market’s demand for clean label and healthy formulations.
Good Process Compatibility: Its stable physical and chemical properties make it adaptable to various food processing technologies, with no negative impact on product shelf life, texture and taste.
Application Fields
Infant, Elderly & Clinical Nutrition: As a safe and well-tolerated fiber source, it is added to specialized nutritional formulas for sensitive groups, providing gentle fiber support.
Functional Foods & Beverages: Used in fiber-enriched drinks, yogurts, smoothies, low-sugar snacks, bakery goods and dairy alternatives, it adds soluble dietary fiber, improves product texture and enhances shelf stability.
Nutritional Supplements: Incorporated into prebiotic powder blends, capsules and sachets, it is a key ingredient for digestive wellness products, supporting gut microbiota balance and enabling legitimate health claims for products.
Pet & Animal Nutrition: Added to pet food and animal feed, it regulates intestinal flora balance of animals, improves their digestive performance and supports overall animal health.