Beneo debuts low GI syrup for healthier pet food formulations

Published: 16-Jan-2025

BeneoCarb S is derived from sugar beet, and is designed to lower the glycaemic index (GI) of pet food formulations

Functional ingredients manufacturer Beneo has introduced its low-glycaemic syrup, BeneoCarb S to the pet food market.

The companion animal nutraceutical is suitable for semi-moist and moist food products or snacks, and is a natural alternative to additives such as glucose syrup or caramel.

Beneo designed this product to appeal to health-conscious pet owners, as it can help contribute to blood glucose control, while also promoting weight management. 

 

Taking care of our most beloved

In many households worldwide, pets are considered a key part of the family, and this often reflects in consumer choices when buying food and treat products for them. 

As the public become more health-conscious themselves, pet owners are also taking a more active interest in their pet's health, with 4 in 5 saying that their cat or dog's health is as important as their own.

With the number of overweight and obese pets continuing to rise, Beneo believes that food-incorporated weight management solutions could be the answer.

Therefore, the company developed BeneoCarb S, which is a low-glycaemic disaccharide solution containing isomaltulose and trehalulose — both of which naturally occur in honey. 

This low-GI syrup also exhibits a reduced insulin response compared with standard refined carbohydrates due to the strength of its glycosidic bond, meaning it will promote better blood glucose management when digested. 

A recent scientific study[ii] shows that isomaltulose, a key component in BeneoCarb S, is a suitable dog food ingredient that triggers a lower rise in blood glucose after consumption. This property makes it a particularly appealing solution with the potential to support metabolic health and weight management.
 

Simplifying the formulation process

As well as being nutritional, BeneoCarb S is easy to handle and process thanks to its low viscosity.

Because of its rich colour, it can also be used to replace caramel additives, which are to be banned from pet foods by July 2025.

BeneoCarb S can also improve the flavour of dog biscuits, as it can replace glucose syrup as a binding agent, while also mimicking its sweet flavour. 

The ingredient also has antioxidative properties, improving the stability of pet food and preventing the growth of untoward microorganisms.
 
Dr Maygane Ronsmans, Product Manager Animal Nutrition at BENEO comments: “Interestingly, despite inflation and rising costs of pet food, pet owners don’t want to compromise on ingredient quality, nutritional value, taste and health claims."

"With owners prioritising the health of their companion animals, producers of pet food need to incorporate functional ingredients that can deliver proven nutritional and technical benefits. BeneoCarb S enables producers to create healthier pet foods and snacks, that are naturally coloured and taste great.”
 
 

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