Benicaros prebiotic boosts gut health across all dog breeds, research reveals

NutriLeads is unveiling new peer-reviewed findings on the health benefits of its proprietary carrot-derived prebiotic, Benicaros (carrot rhamnogalacturonan-I, or cRG-I), for the gut microbiome in dogs — regardless of breed, size, or baseline microbiota.

The in vitro study, conducted with dsm-firmenich, reveals that Benicaros significantly increased production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and selectively stimulated Phocaeicola vulgatus, a keystone SCFA-producing bacterium in the canine gut. It was initiated by NutriLeads in collaboration with dsm-firmenich and carried out by ProDigest.

Nutrileads highlights that these effects were consistent across all 18 healthy dog donors studied, representing small (5–10 kg), medium (10–27 kg), and large (27–45 kg) breeds.

“This consistent production of SCFAs and the ability to balance the gut microbiota composition, suggests potential health benefits with Benicaros supplementation in dogs of all sizes,” says Dr. Sue McKay, the nutrition and health manager at NutriLeads. “These findings highlight Benicaros’ value as a next-generation precision prebiotic for companion animal health.”

Clear differentiation from other prebiotics

Nutrileads points out that in the comparative study of prebiotic ingredients published in Microorganisms, Benicaros demonstrated notable advantages over both inulin — a commonly used but less selective prebiotic — and xanthan, a fiber known for its high selectivity but limited fermentability.

The research further shows that Benicaros consistently enhanced microbial activity and the production of SCFAs, especially acetate and propionate, even at low doses.

It also led to a marked increase in Phocaeicola vulgatus, a beneficial gut microbe linked to improved gut barrier integrity and immune support. Additionally, the ingredient reduces the variability in microbiome responses across individual dogs, suggesting it may deliver more consistent and predictable health benefits.

“These findings not only reinforce the importance of precision prebiotics in dsm-firmenich’s ambition to develop next-generation pet nutrition solutions but also exemplify our commitment to sustainability,” says Jeff Alix, the global head of business development for palatability and microbiome at dsm-firmenich.

“As a partner in this research, we were impressed by the robust and consistent effects of Benicaros on the canine gut microbiota of a broad target population.”

Building blocks of gut health

Nutrileads spotlights that SCFAs provide fuel for gut-lining cells, help maintain barrier function, and modulate inflammation and immunity. 

By promoting steady SCFA production, Benicaros supports a resilient gut ecosystem linked to digestive comfort, immune defense, and overall well-being in dogs, even at low doses, offering a formulation advantage for pet supplements, functional treats, and enriched pet foods.

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