Soluble corn fiber is a type of dietary fiber extracted from corn. It is a water-soluble prebiotic fiber commonly used as a food additive to increase the fiber content in food products without significantly changing their flavor or texture. This fiber is known for its benefits to digestive health and its ability to positively impact weight management, gut health, and blood glucose levels.

Nutritional Profile (per 100 grams).

• Calories Varies depending on the specific product but is generally low as it is used in small amounts in foods, about 2kcalories
• Protein Minimal or none.
• Fat None.
• Carbohydrates Primarily soluble fiber.
• Fiber High amount, specifically soluble fiber that can help promote gut health and improve digestion.
• Vitamins and Minerals Minimal or none, the focus is mainly on the fiber content.

Industrial Production Process

The production of soluble corn fiber (SCF) is a complex industrial process that involves extracting, treating, and refining corn to produce a soluble dietary fiber. This fiber is widely used in the food industry for its health benefits and functional properties, such as improving texture, acting as a low-calorie sweetener, and enhancing fiber content in various food products.

• Corn selection and preparation. The process begins with selecting suitable corn, which is then cleaned to remove impurities.
• Extraction. The corn is treated with water and enzymes to break down chemical bonds, allowing the extraction of the soluble fiber.
• Purification. The fibrous solution is then purified through various methods, such as filtration and centrifugation, to remove impurities.
• Concentration and refinement. The purified corn fiber solution is concentrated to remove excess water and then refined to achieve the desired consistency and quality.
• Drying. The concentrated and refined soluble corn fiber is then dried to further reduce moisture content.

Considerations

Soluble corn fiber can help improve gut health by stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases due to its effect on blood glucose levels and cholesterol.

Digestion While soluble corn fiber is generally well-tolerated, excessive consumption can lead to bloating, gas, or intestinal discomfort in some individuals.

Use in Food Products Commonly added to yogurt, cereal bars, beverages, and other products as a supplemental dietary fiber.

Health Benefits Offers a practical way to increase fiber intake in the diet, supporting digestive health and contributing to the prevention of chronic diseases.