CHICAGO — ADM has announced the publication of its “pioneering” study on the effects of heat-treated postbiotic Bifidobacterium longum CECT 7347 (PRIOME® Gut Health) combined with Fibersol®-2 (Pet Fibersol®), a soluble dietary fiber, in scientific journal Animals. The study demonstrated that supplementing PRIOME® Gut Health with Fibersol®-2 significantly improved the intestinal health of adult cats before and after a diet change.

PRIOME Gut Health has been shown to enhance gut microbiota balance and strengthen the intestinal barrier, subsequently improving gastrointestinal health during dietary changes, according to ADM. Pet Fibersol further supports digestive health by increasing beneficial bacteria levels while offering additional benefits including a low glycemic index, reduced body fat and improved adaptation to a high-protein diet, according to ADM. Paired together, these two ingredients work collaboratively to improve intestinal health and overall wellbeing in cats, according to the study.

“We understand the vital role gut health plays in pets’ overall wellbeing, particularly during dietary changes,” said Mark Lotsch, president of global health and wellness at ADM. “Insights from this study will open new doors for creating innovative pet food solutions that enhance digestive health and nutritional balance.”

The research was a collaboration between ADM’s research and development team and China Agricultural University. Twenty-four cats were studied over a 28-day period at the Pet Nutrition Research Center in Beijing. The cats were then divided into two groups, each consisting of 12 cats, with six males and six females in each group. 

From day one to 14, both groups of cats were fed a lower-protein (33%) diet. The treated group received a supplement of 0.16% functional additives, including PRIOME Gut Health and Pet Fibersol, while the control group did not receive any supplementation. From day 15 to 28, both groups switched to a higher-protein (40%) diet and the treated group continued to receive the same supplement.

According to the study, the cats that received the supplement showed significant improvements in intestinal permeability both before and after the diet change. Following the diet change, the treated group also had increased secretary immunoglobulin A compared to the control group, which indicates enhanced immune function and positive changes in the microbiome, according to ADM. 

Additionally, while both groups showed an increase in fecal pH, the treated group had a notably lower pH compared to the control group. According to ADM, this difference may be explained by the higher levels of Blautia, a beneficial bacterium that produces organic acids like lactic acid, which helps to regulate intestinal pH levels.

Read the full study on PRIOME Gut Health and Pet Fibersol here.

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