Fructooligosaccharide (FOS)

Synonyms: Oligofructose, Fructo-oligosaccharide, FOS, GF2, GF3, GF4, β-D-fructofuranosyl-(2→1)-α-D-glucopyranoside

Fructooligosaccharide (FOS) has become a staple in the prebiotic ingredient market, driven by rising consumer demand for gut health and low-sugar formulations. It offers a clean label solution for formulators looking to replace sugar without compromising taste or texture, and its well-documented bifidogenic effect makes it a popular choice in functional foods, dietary supplements, and clinical nutrition.

FOS is a mixture of short-chain fructans, primarily composed of 1-kestose (GF2), nystose (GF3), and fructofuranosylnystose (GF4). It occurs naturally in various plants such as chicory root, Jerusalem artichoke, and onion, but commercial production relies on enzymatic synthesis from sucrose using fructosyltransferase, yielding a consistent and highly pure product.

LyvBio supplies FOS in a standard grade with ≥95% purity (HPLC) and ≥55% total GF2–GF4 content, suitable for a wide range of applications. Our material is manufactured under strict quality control and is available with complete documentation to support your regulatory and formulation needs.

Product Overview & Composition

FOS consists of a linear chain of fructose units linked by β-(2→1) glycosidic bonds, terminating in a glucose unit. The degree of polymerization (DP) typically ranges from 2 to 4, which distinguishes FOS from longer-chain inulin. This low DP gives FOS excellent water solubility and a mild sweetness—about 30–50% that of sucrose—making it easy to incorporate into beverages, dairy, and baked goods.

Beyond its prebiotic effect, FOS contributes to improved mineral absorption, particularly calcium and magnesium, and supports immune health by promoting beneficial gut bacteria. Its low glycemic index and reduced caloric value (approximately 2 kcal/g) align with current trends in sugar reduction and metabolic wellness.

Key Applications

• Dietary Supplements: Used in prebiotic capsules, powders, and synbiotic blends to support digestive health.
• Functional Foods & Beverages: Added to dairy products, nutrition bars, and beverages for fiber enrichment and sugar replacement.
• Infant Nutrition: Included in infant formulas to mimic the prebiotic effect of human milk oligosaccharides.
• Clinical Nutrition: Incorporated into enteral formulas for patients requiring gut support.
• Pet Food: Used in premium pet foods to promote digestive wellness.

Quality & Standards

Packaging & Supply

• Packaging: 25 kg net paper bags with PE liner, or as per customer request.
• MOQ: 25 kg.
• Lead time: 3-5 business days (stock items)
• Documentation: COA, MSDS, TDS available upon request.

Request For Quote

• LyvBio Co., Ltd. — Email: info@lyvbio.com