European Regulator Approves Modified Fibre for Food Use

A European regulator has approved a modified fibre that increases release of appetite-reducing hormones. The fibre could appear in breads, cereals and smoothies within a year. The fibre, called inulin-propionate ester, passes through the stomach and small intestine before bacteria in the large intestine release propionate.

This process raises short-chain fatty acid levels enough to stimulate hormones such as GLP-1 and PYY.

In one trial with 60 overweight participants aged 40 to 65, daily intake of 10 grams prevented significant weight gain over six months. A separate trial with 270 participants aged 20 to 40 found an average increase of more than one kilogram in fat-free mass after one year.

The only reported side effect was increased flatulence. Researchers noted that most people did not detect any taste change when the fibre was added to foods.

Approval followed 12 years of development and review by the European Food Safety Authority. Officials expect the UK regulator to issue a similar decision. Discussions with food manufacturers are under way to incorporate the fibre into commercial products. A researcher at the University of Aberdeen stated that evidence of weight-related benefits remains mixed and called for additional studies.