MOS and FOS are two major classes of prebiotics commonly used in pet food for their functional benefits. They are non-digestible carbohydrates that can help to stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial gut bacteria, as well as support immune function and faecal quality.
These ingredients are highly stable with minimal impact when exposed to changes in temperature or long-term storage, so are very beneficial as an ingredient in dry pet foods.
Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS)
FOS can be found naturally in fruit and vegetable extracts such as chicory, and can help to promote gastrointestinal health. Dietary FOS cannot be digested by the small intestine and reaches the large intestine structurally unchanged, where it is metabolised by the friendly gut bacteria to form short-chain fatty acids.
The short-chain fatty acids produced by this process in the gastrointestinal tract stimulate mucosal and cell growth within the small intestine. By feeding and supporting the bacteria in the gut, FOS is beneficial for digestive health.
FOS may also help to reduce stool odour by reducing the number of unpleasant smelling compounds (e.g ammonia) in the faeces.
Mannan-oligosaccharide (MOS)
MOS is derived from yeast cell walls and can help to promote gastrointestinal health. MOS passes through the digestive tract the same way as FOS and is metabolised by the friendly gut bacteria once it reaches the large intestine. When combined with FOS, MOS has been shown to reduce the concentration of odiferous compounds in dog faeces and help minimise stool odour. Dietary MOS may also contribute to supporting immune function.
All of our Dog Superfood recipes contain MOS and FOS to help support digestive health and immune function in dogs.