The high-purity fucoidan ingredient Maritech Undaria pinnatifida extract, from Marinova, has been scientifically validated as a prebiotic, the company said. Prebiotics bypass digestion in the upper gut and are fermented in the colon, where they selectively support the microbiome.

“Marinova welcomed the International Probiotics Association’s (IPA) recent publication of criteria to scientifically validate prebiotics,” said David Gesch, technical services manager, Marinova. “The rigorous framework will overcome confusion around the identification and efficacy of ingredients claiming to be prebiotics. Using the IPA’s criteria, we are pleased to confirm that Maritech Undaria pinnatifida extract meets all the requirements of a prebiotic.”

“The prebiotic validation is based on published scientific evidence,” said Gesch. “This includes the promotion of beneficial bacteria in the gut, in addition to supporting fermentation that produces beneficial short-chain fatty acids such as butyrate.”

Fucoidan is a complex polysaccharide produced naturally by brown seaweeds. Orally administered fucoidan passes through the stomach and small intestine, arriving in the large intestine, where it can feed beneficial bacteria.

Maritech Undaria pinnatifida extract is a high-purity, certified-organic fucoidan ingredient derived from wild, sustainably sourced seaweed.

Marinova’s fucoidan extracts have been studied for a range of gut health benefits. “These include maintaining the balance of good and bad bacteria, increasing the production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids, and supporting healthy inflammatory responses,” said Gesch.

Acknowledging the rapid growth in the global prebiotics market, Gesch added, “The evidence supporting Maritech Undaria pinnatifida extract as a prebiotic will be of particular interest to dietary supplement brands seeking a multifunctional and scientifically validated ingredient for gut health applications.”

Marinova will be exhibiting at Vitafoods Europe from May 5-7 (booth 3J227), including a presentation in the New Ingredients Theater on Wednesday, May 6 at 12 pm local time.