What is FOS

“FOS” stands for Fructo-oligosaccharides, a type of prebiotic fiber naturally found in many fruits and vegetables like bananas, onions, garlic, leeks and asparagus. They are a type of soluble fiber, a carbohydrate, that is not digested till they reach the colon where they act as a food source for gut bacteria.

FOS have gained attention for their potential health benefits and versatile applications. FOS themselves are not something you'd typically recognize or identify in whole foods because they're invisible components. However, when FOS is extracted and used as a supplement or food ingredient, it usually looks like a clear liquid or a fine white powder – very similar in appearance to powdered sugar or flour.

 

Health Benefits and Uses of FOS 

Including FOS in your diet may offer several health advantages:

• Supports Gut Health: As prebiotics, FOS feed beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a balanced microbiome
• Enhances Digestion: FOS can improve bowel regularity and may alleviate constipation
• Improves Mineral Absorption: FOS consumption has been linked to better absorption of essential minerals like calcium and magnesium
• Regulates Blood Sugar Levels: Some studies suggest that FOS may help balance blood sugar levels, benefiting individuals with diabetes
• Lowers Cholesterol: Research indicates that FOS can contribute to reduced cholesterol levels, supporting heart health

  

FOS in Shift

At Shift, we’re reimagining soda—from a sugary crash to a wellness ritual. Every can is carefully crafted with functional ingredients that help you feel good and still taste great. FOS play a key role in that. Along with all the benefits they provide your GUT, they also add a natural sweetness.

 

References

"Prebiotic Type Spotlight: Fructooligosaccharides (FOS)," accessed March 30, 2025, https://prebioticassociation.org/prebiotic-type-spotlight-fructooligosaccharides-fos/

Dou, Y., Yu, X., Luo, Y., Chen, B., Ma, D., & Zhu, J. (2022), "Effect of Fructooligosaccharides Supplementation on the Gut Microbiota in Human: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis," https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14163298

"Fructooligosaccharides," accessed March 25, 2025, https://www.healthline.com/health/fructooligosaccharides

Caetano, B.F.R., De Moura, N.A., Almeida, A.P.S., Dias, M.C., Sivieri, K., & Barbisan, L.F. (2016), "Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) as a Food Supplement: Health-Promoting Benefits of Fructooligosaccharides," https://doi.org/10.3390/nu8070436

ClinicalTrials.gov, accessed on March 20, 2025, https://clinicaltrials.gov/search?intr=Fructooligosaccharide%20%5C(FOS%5C)&aggFilters=status:rec