Research shows potential prebiotic qualities of enzyme-converted durum wheat

NAPLES, READING, England, and BARCELONA Several new studies at universities in Europe have examined the possibility that enzyme-treated insoluble durum wheat could possibly be infused with prebiotic qualities, reports said.

Studies conducted by universities in Barcelona, Naples and Reading have examined adding Trichoderma enzymes to insoluble cereal fiber. Some results have appeared in a report published in the British Journal of Nutrition.

Reports stated that the addition of the enzyme produced soluble feruloyl oligosaccharides, also containing bifidobacteria and lactobacilli-boosting properties in a “model gut system”—bacteria known to aid in digestion.

Researchers have stated that if the studies can confirm the prebiotic potential of durum wheat plus enzymes, this fiber could join the growing line-up of commerical prebiotic/probiotic health supplements.