Physiological Functions of Kestose and Practical Approaches for Its Commercial Application

(JSNFS Award for Technology and Innovation (2019))

Abstract

Kestose is a type of oligosaccharide known to be well fermented by intestinal bacteria. We have demonstrated that kestose has various physiological functions, such as promotion of gut health, improvement of allergic diseases, and prevention of metabolic syndrome. These findings indicate that kestose is a prebiotic component that contributes to maintenance of health in humans through several physiological functions. We have also tried to improve the activity of an enzyme involved in kestose synthesis. Here we describe research on the physiological functions and practical uses of kestose.