Xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS): Core Properties, Health Benefits, Processing & Future Outlook
🔬 1. Key Characteristics & Mechanism of Action
🌱 Highly Selective Prebiotic
Xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS) are functional oligosaccharides composed of 2–9 xylose units linked by β-1,4-glycosidic bonds. Extracted primarily from plant-based raw materials such as corncobs and sugarcane bagasse, XOS are not digested by human enzymes (saliva, gastric acid, pancreatic fluid) and directly reach the colon.
They selectively promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, especially Bifidobacterium, while suppressing harmful microbes like Escherichia coli. As a water-soluble dietary fiber, XOS help support normal intestinal function.
👉 Selectivity Power:
XOS promotes bifidobacteria growth 10–20 times more effectively than other prebiotics such as Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) or Isomalto-oligosaccharides (IMO).
📊 Effective daily dosage:
XOS: 0.7–1.4 g/day
FOS: 5–8 g/day
IMO: ~15 g/day
🔥 Outstanding Stability
Acid-Resistant: pH range 2.5–8.0
Heat-Stable: Remains stable after 1 hour at 120°C
➡️ Ideal for baking, beverages, and other processed foods.
🧬 Metabolic Friendliness
Not absorbed by the body
Does not raise blood glucose or insulin levels
Has no impact on fat metabolism
✅ Suitable for diabetics and low-calorie diets
💊 2. Primary Health Benefits
✅ Gut Health Support
Promotes intestinal peristalsis
Increases short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)
Binds to pathogenic bacteria
Boosts gut barrier integrity by stimulating secretory IgA and enhancing mucosal immunity
⚠️ Caution: Intake above 3g/day may cause bloating or diarrhea.
Sensitive individuals should begin with 1g/day.
🧪 Immune Activation
By fostering Bifidobacterium growth, XOS indirectly stimulates immune cells such as macrophages and NK cells, helping to strengthen the body’s defense system.
🔧 3. Application Areas & Dosage Recommendations
Application Product Types Recommended Intake
Food Yogurt, beverages, jellies, baked goods, milk ≤3g/day
Health Products Prebiotic capsules, enzyme blends, sachets, tablets 0.7–1.4g/day
Pet Nutrition Prebiotic supplements for birds/parrots Weight-based
Animal Feed Intestinal health additives for livestock/poultry Industry standard
⚠️ Contraindications:
Do not consume with antibiotics — allow at least 2-hour interval
Avoid combining with "cold" foods (e.g., bitter melon, crab) to prevent gastrointestinal irritation
Patients with colitis or post-surgery should consult a doctor before use
💎 Conclusion
With its highly targeted prebiotic activity, exceptional stability, and metabolic safety, Xylo-oligosaccharides are emerging as an ideal ingredient in functional food and nutritional products.
We recommend choosing high-purity products, such as XOS 70 or 95 , and monitoring intake to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort.
