Tag: Isomaltooligosaccharide

Derived from natural plant starches, Vitafiber, a high-purity isomalto-oligosaccharide (IMO), has been developed through extensive research as a multifunctional ingredient for promoting health and wellness. This innovative soluble fiber offers a variety of advantages beyond simple dietary fiber, serving as both a prebiotic and a low-calorie sweetener.

Isomalto-oligosaccharides, or IMO for short, have been used in Asian food products for decades and are now a buzz-worthy ingredient in Western snacks. So, what is IMO in candy? It's a low-calorie, prebiotic fiber that manufacturers use to replace sugar in so-called "better-for-you" or low-carb candies.

According to a 2017 study in the *Journal of Insulin Resistance*, industrial IMO (isomaltooligosaccharide) syrup can cause a significant spike in blood glucose and insulin levels, raising concerns and leading many to question: is IMO syrup bad for you?. This contrasts sharply with its marketing as a low-calorie, high-fiber ingredient for low-carb and keto products.

Isomaltooligosaccharides (IMOs) are naturally found in various fermented foods like miso and honey, but are also widely manufactured for commercial use as a prebiotic fiber and low-calorie sweetener. This has led to their inclusion in a growing list of packaged products, particularly in the health and fitness industry. Understanding which foods contain IMO is key for consumers aiming to manage their prebiotic intake and understand the nutritional composition of their diet.