This case study was created by the following OIRC hubs:
The Guide to Prebiotic Products Available in the UK – launched April 2025 – is the first fully independent, evidence-based resource designed to support healthcare professionals and the public in navigating the rapidly expanding prebiotic market. Free from commercial influence and developed through the Diet and Health OIRC INFORM Hub with BBSRC Flexible Mobility Award funding, the Guide offers a clear, science-led overview of prebiotic ingredients and the products available on UK shelves.
Although robust clinical evidence exists, both the public and many healthcare professionals remain largely unaware of the significant public-health potential of prebiotics. When taken at clinically effective doses, specific prebiotic fibres have demonstrated benefits for gastrointestinal health, metabolic outcomes such as type 2 diabetes and weight management, mineral absorption e.g. calcium and iron, immunity, and aspects of mental health. Yet these safe, accessible non-pharmacological treatment options remain underused.
The Prebiotic Guide seeks to change this by providing transparent, unbiased information that empowers patients and healthcare professionals to make informed, evidence-based choices – supporting personalised care, wider treatment options, and improved health outcomes.
Project Outcomes So Far
Achievements include a systematic review of human RCTs on key prebiotic fibres (inulin/FOS, GOS, β-GOS, PHGG), development of a structured evidence database, and mapping of commercially available UK products across retail and online sectors. Early clinical-practice notes are underway, and the project has strengthened academic–clinical–industry collaborations.
Follow-On Activities
Next steps include full guide production, peer review by UK microbiome
experts, and development of a publicly accessible website.
"This funding has enabled us to transform complex prebiotic science into a clear, trusted resource – expanding non-pharmacological treatment options and empowering both clinicians and the public to make evidence-led choices."
