Beneo aims to give producers tools for ‘fibermaxxing’
Blending different types of the ingredient can possibly yield health benefits.
The viral "fibermaxxing" wave on social media has played a crucial role in repositioning fiber as a modern, sought-after, and relevant ingredient, supplier Beneo says. It has significantly increased awareness of the fiber gap—the reality that in the U.S., more than 90% of women and 97% of men still do not meet the recommended dietary fiber intake levels, the company adds.
“Fiber isn’t just having a trendy moment; it has become one of the most in-demand nutrients. However, its health benefits are not about quantity, it’s more about balance. Only the right mix of fiber types can offer the benefits consumers are looking for. Brands built on fiber diversity can play a significant role in providing value-added foods and beverages and supporting healthier diets,” says Kyle Krause of Beneo, regional product manager for functional fibers and carbohydrates, North America, and global product manager for Beneo's beta-glucan-rich, whole-grain barley flour.
Fiber differs in structure, functionality, and benefits. Thoughtfully blending different fiber types yields a variety of health benefits, Beneo notes.
“Since different fibers interact with food matrices in very different ways, formulation expertise is key. Our goal is to help manufacturers seamlessly integrate fiber enrichment to achieve a meaningful nutritional boost while maintaining taste and texture,” adds Krause. Beneo is aiming to support manufacturers in navigating this complexity through smart combinations and science-backed functionality.
How manufacturers can take the lead
Beneo's fiber toolbox strives to offer versatile solutions, enabling brands to seize key market opportunities by leading with benefit-driven innovation, the company says:
1. Nourishing the gut microbiota with natural chicory root fibers
Prebiotics from chicory root (fructans) are soluble dietary fibers that reach the large intestine intact, where beneficial bacteria completely ferment them. They support on-pack structure/function claims such as “promotes healthy gut bacteria” or “supports the vitality of healthy gut flora” at just 0.75 g per serving. Backed by extensive human clinical data from more than 30 years of studies, these fibers aim to support a healthy microbiome and gut as a foundation for a healthy body. Proven effects go beyond digestive health, including weight management and mood improvement, Beneo notes.
2. Promoting a healthy heart and satiety with barley beta-glucans
Beneo's Orafti β-Fit is a wholegrain flour from barley, delivering soluble, insoluble, fermentable, and viscous fiber all in one due to its matrix of beta-glucans, arabinoxylans, and cellulose. Thanks to their viscous properties, these fibers reportedly naturally thicken and delay the passage of food through the GI tract, prolonging the feeling of fullness. Brand owners can leverage on-pack structure/function claims centered on enhanced satiety, natural appetite control, and energy from whole grains, in addition to FDA-approved heart health claims.
3. Boosting fiber, reducing sugar with chicory root or scFOS
Beneo turns a formulation challenge into a double win: Prebiotic fiber from chicory root and short-chain fructo-oligosaccharides (scFOS) from sugar beet enable brands to replace sugar, and in some cases fat, while simultaneously boosting dietary fiber content and lowering calories, the brand says.
4. Fiber plus: Nutrient density with fiber and plant proteins
As the fibermaxxing focus shifts from “more” to “better,” nutrient density is becoming a key priority, particularly in the context of GLP-1 use, where smaller portions increase expectations for complete nutrition. Combining fiber with other nutrients like plant-based proteins offers a smart and holistic way to deliver more nutrition per bite, the company says. Fiber and plant proteins, such as those from faba beans and rice, aim to bring complementary benefits supporting gut health, satiety, and muscle maintenance.
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