A recent study has revealed that Benicaros (carrot rhamnogalacturonan-I), a precision prebiotic developed by NutriLeads, can significantly enhance gut health in dogs. Conducted in partnership with dsm-firmenich, the peer-reviewed research found that this proprietary ingredient consistently promotes a healthy gut microbiome across various dog sizes.
Published in the journal Microorganisms, the study showed that Benicaros notably increased beneficial short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and stimulated Phocaeicola vulgatus, a key species crucial for SCFA production in dogs. Importantly, these benefits were observed in dogs regardless of their size, breed, or existing gut microbiota composition.
“This consistent production of SCFAs and the ability to balance the gut microbiota composition suggests potential health benefits with Benicaros supplementation in dogs of all sizes,” said Sue McKay, Ph.D., Nutrition & Health Manager at NutriLeads.
The study involved 18 healthy dogs from different breeds, categorised by size: small (5–10 kg), medium (10–27 kg), and large (27–45 kg). Researchers compared the effects of Benicaros to inulin, a common prebiotic, and xanthan, a high-selectivity fibre.
Recent findings revealed that Benicaros effectively stimulated microbial activity and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production in dogs of all sizes. Notably, it selectively increased levels of P. vulgatus, a bacterium associated with gut barrier integrity and immune function. Additionally, the ingredient demonstrated the ability to reduce variability in microbiome responses, leading to more predictable health benefits for dogs.
- It selectively increased levels of P. vulgatus, linked to gut barrier integrity and immune function.
- The ingredient reduced variability in microbiome responses, providing more predictable health benefits.
In contrast, inulin showed inconsistent results, while xanthan had limited effects.
Short-chain fatty acids, particularly acetate and propionate, support gut health by strengthening the gut barrier and regulating immune responses. By enhancing SCFA production, Benicaros promotes overall health and comfort in dogs, the press statement notes.
Jeff Alix, Global Head of Business Development, Palatability & Microbiome at dsm-firmenich, stated, “The ability of cRG-I to selectively enrich beneficial species while reducing variability across different dog sizes is promising. These findings reinforce the importance of precision prebiotics in developing next-generation pet nutrition solutions.”
Joana Carneiro-Wakefield, Ph.D., CEO of NutriLeads, added, “Benicaros will allow pet nutrition developers to formulate with confidence, knowing they’re delivering consistent, science-backed benefits.”
Benicaros is effective at a low daily dose and offers advantages for use in supplements, treats, and functional petfoods, the companies note. The study was initiated by NutriLeads in collaboration with dsm-firmenich and conducted by ProDigest.