What are fibres?
Fibres are polysaccharides which are not hydrolysed by the endogenous enzymes in the small intestine of monogastric animals, but are fermented in the colon by microorganisms. The fibre content of an ingredient can be analysed in different ways. The common way is to analyse crude fibre, but with this method mainly cellulose is analysed and only part of the hemicellulose and lignin. This results in an underestimation of the real fibre content. To have a better idea about the real fibre content and how it functions in the animal, it is better to analyse soluble and insoluble fibre.
The difference between soluble and insoluble fibre
Soluble and insoluble fibres have different characteristic and benefits. Each is suitable for plant-based petfood in a different way. These are explained in detail below.
Soluble fibres
Soluble fibre are fibres that dissolve in water. This includes pectins, fructans, β-glucans, guar gums, inulin, FOS, GOS and some hemicelluloses. Some of them can increase viscosity in the gastrointestinal tract. This delays the emptying of the stomach, which slows down digestion and absorption of nutrients, which can help to prevent wide swings in blood sugar levels.
Some of these fibres (FOS and inulin for example) are fermented in the colon and have a prebiotic effect. They serve as a nutrient for bacteria that positively influences the intestinal flora. In particular, the growth of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli is stimulated which results in a good intestinal health. By the fermentation of the fibres short chain fatty acids are formed in the colon, mainly butyrate. This causes a pH reduction in the intestine and prevents growth of pathogenic bacteria, such as E. Coli. Butyrate is also the main energy source for epithelial cells in the colon.
Insoluble fibres
Insoluble fibre are fibres that do not dissolve in water. This includes most of the hemicelluloses, cellulose and lignin. Insoluble fibre is not fermented in the colon and therefore not usually a source of energy for cats and dogs. The insoluble fibre stimulate peristalsis to maintain intestinal passage and helps to get a desirable stool consistency to prevent constipation or diarrhea.
Insoluble fibre does not contribute to weight gain. That is why it can be used in diets formulated for weight management to provide bulk and improve satiety. Insoluble fibres increase stool volume, which can be unfavorable to the perception of diet quality for pet owners. There is an optimal quantity of insoluble fibre required to promote laxation, but prevent excessive fecal volume.
The benefits of fibre in petfood
- Improves stool quality
- Promotes the growth of good bacteria
- Supports gut health and digestion
- Provides a feeling of saturation
The best ingredients for high fibre petfood
There are many different plant-based dietary fibre sources available for use in petfood. Ingredients such as potato, carrot, chicory, sugar beet and apples contain both soluble and insoluble fibres in different ratios. Be it potato fibres or chicory fibres, these ingredients should be part of a healthy well-balanced diet for cats and dogs. Duynie is an expert in natural petfood ingredients. Our experts can give you advice about our ingredients to create the perfect petfood formula. Contact us for tailor-made advice!
