Chicory root fiber, also known as inulin, is a naturally sourced soluble fiber that provides an array of health benefits and functional properties to enhance foods and beverages. This prebiotic fiber is derived from chicory root through a special extraction process. The result is Fibruline™ and Fibrulose™ chicory root fiber - versatile, clean-label ingredients that can improve the nutritional profile and performance of your products.
What Is Chicory Root Fiber?
Chicory root fiber, or inulin, is a type of soluble dietary fiber. It is extracted from the roots of the chicory plant (Cichorium intybus), which is native to Europe. Chicory has been used since ancient times as a medicinal plant and coffee substitute.
The fiber is composed of chains of fructose molecules that are connected in a way that resists digestion in the upper GI tract. Instead, chicory root fiber acts as a prebiotic, fermenting in the large intestine where it feeds the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. This fermentation process is what leads to its powerful health properties.
Gillco supplies high-quality Fibruline™ and Fibrulose™ chicory root fiber from COSUCRA. These ingredients are white powders that easily dissolve in water, have a neutral taste, and are stable under heat. This functional fiber can be used in a wide variety of food and beverage applications to boost fiber content, support digestive wellness, replace sugars and fats, and more.
What Makes Chicory Root Fiber a Healthy Alternative?
The unique way chicory root fiber interacts with the human body translates to numerous scientifically proven health benefits:
- • Prebiotic Effects: As a prebiotic, chicory root fiber selectively stimulates the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the colon. A robust gut microbiome is linked to digestive health, immune function, mental well-being, and more.
- • Digestive Health: Fermentation of chicory fiber produces short-chain fatty acids that nourish the cells lining the colon. This strengthens the gut barrier and promotes bowel regularity. Inulin has been shown to relieve constipation and support gut health.
- • Blood Sugar Management: Chicory root fiber is not digested and does not raise blood glucose levels. It can slow digestion and improve blood sugar control. These properties make it well-suited for products targeting metabolic health.
- • Weight Management: As a soluble fiber, chicory root fiber enhances satiety and reduces energy intake. It also serves as a low-calorie bulking agent and sugar replacement.
- • Bone Health: Chicory root fiber enhances the absorption of calcium and magnesium in the gut. Increased mineral uptake is important for building and maintaining strong bones.
With its multifaceted health benefits, chicory root fiber can strengthen the nutritional profile and health positioning of both mainstream products and functional foods and supplements. Reach out to Gillco to learn how you can leverage this ingredient.
Gillco's Chicory Root Fiber Sourcing
Gillco partners with COSUCRA, a leading chicory root fiber manufacturer based in Belgium, to provide Fibruline™ and Fibrulose™ chicory root fiber of the highest quality and traceability. Our long-term relationship ensures a secure, reliable supply for our customers.
Chicory is a small-batch specialty crop that requires a two-year growing cycle. COSUCRA has invested in an extensive chicory seed breeding program to develop the best-performing varieties for yield, quality, and sustainability.
The chicory is grown on fertile soils in Belgium and Northern France through exclusive contracts with local farmers. COSUCRA provides training and tools to help their farming partners maximize crop success while prioritizing sustainable agricultural practices. After harvesting, the chicory roots are immediately transported to their facility for extraction and refinement into pure inulin powder.
This integrated "field-to-facility" oversight allows for full traceability, consistent quality, and a short supply chain. Through Gillco and COSUCRA's partnership, you can trust you are getting premium non-GMO chicory root fiber grown by farmers who care for their land and crops.
Get Your Fibruline™ and Fibrulose™ Chicory Root Fiber from Gillco
The Fibruline™ and Fibrulose™ portfolio offers different chain lengths and formats of chicory root fiber to suit your application needs:
- • Fibruline™ Instant: An all-around easy-to-incorporate powder for fiber fortification when no additional functional benefits are needed.
- • Fibruline™ XL: Longer chain inulin powder that provides fat mimetic properties and improved texture in higher moisture systems.
- • Fibruline™ S30: Higher solubility powder ideal for sugar substitution in lower moisture applications.
- • Fibrulose™ F97: Offers maximum solubility and sugar replacement in a powder format.
- • Fibrulose™ LCF: High fiber, 65.5% liquid chicory root fiber with sweetness and excellent binding properties.
With their clean taste, ease of use, and functional benefits, Fibruline™ and Fibrulose™ ingredients can boost the health appeal of your products while supporting great taste and texture. Partner with Gillco for access to premium chicory root fiber backed by decades of expertise. Together, we can create delicious foods that make it easy to get more gut-friendly prebiotic fiber.