Global demand for gut health solutions continues to climb, and consumers are increasingly seeking convenient formats that align with fast-paced lifestyles.
But, while consumer preferences shift and change, one thing remains clear: science is still a key driver in decision-making. According to research by FMCG Gurus, 53% of consumers prioritise supplements backed by scientific evidence, and more than 40% consider ease of use to be a critical purchase factor. This is reflected in format choice, with capsules and tablets proving the most popular, followed by powders, gummies and chewables.
The importance of low dose
Modern consumer preferences and the rising cost of living puts pressure on formulation teams to develop solutions that are science-led, user-friendly and cost-effective. The challenge is that prebiotics typically require doses of 6g or higher to demonstrate efficacy, which makes them less suitable for small formats, as they require compromising formulation space or demand multiple servings.
Prebiotic ingredients, such as inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and galactooligosaccharides (GOS), have typically been used in doses between 3 and 10 grams to achieve measurable benefits. This isn’t usually a problem for powders and drink mixes, but presents a challenge for Size 00 capsules, small-format gummies or stick packs, where formulation space is often limited or needs room for other active ingredients or flavours.
Enter new low-dose research on Bimuno® GOS
Among commercially available prebiotics, Bimuno® GOS has already demonstrated efficacy at one of the lowest daily doses for a prebiotic. From just 1.37g – 2.75g, it has demonstrated proven benefits in digestion, immune function, cognition and sports nutrition areas. Backed by over 125 publications and 20 clinical trials, it is the most studied ingredient in the GOS category.
Now, newly published scientific research offers breakthrough insight for formulators. The study, “Galacto-Oligosaccharides Exert Bifidogenic Effects at Capsule-Compatible Ultra-Low Doses”, confirmed Bimuno GOS delivers a statistically significant increase in bifidobacteria (a ‘bifidogenic effect’) at an ultra-low dose of just 380mg active GOS per day. Results also show enhanced production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as acetate and butyrate, and a measurable decrease in pH, indicating a more favourable gut environment.
What makes this possible?
The multi award-winning Bimuno GOS ingredient has a unique structure and composition, which supports high selectivity in feeding beneficial bacteria. These properties are not universally shared across all prebiotics or GOS ingredients, meaning this efficacy may not be applicable to other prebiotic ingredients.
For product developers, ultra-low-dose efficacy unlocks new opportunities, including:
With science-backed efficacy at low doses, Bimuno GOS gives health and nutrition brands the tools to innovate, without compromising on product format, dosage or consumer experience. For formulators, it is not simply about fitting prebiotics into smaller spaces, it is about delivering validated effects in formats consumers actually prefer.
Ready to develop your next low-dose, high-impact health product?
Contact Clasado to learn how Bimuno GOS can help your product stand out in the market.
