BENEO secures first-ever Thai FDA approval for exclusive prebiotic claim
Bangkok, Thailand – [September 18, 2025] – BENEO, a global leader in functional ingredients for food, feed, and pharmaceuticals, has become the first company to receive Thai FDA approval for an exclusive prebiotic claim. The approval covers its chicory root fibre, Orafti® Inulin, marking a significant milestone in the country’s nutrition and health sector.
This achievement follows a comprehensive scientific evaluation by the Center for Nutrition Assessment and Health Claims of Thailand (CNACT), under the Nutrition Association of Thailand, with final authorization from the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The approval process included human intervention trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, representing the highest level of scientific evidence to confirm the prebiotic benefits of Orafti® Inulin.
Rising Demand for Digestive Health in Thailand
The approval comes amid growing consumer awareness of digestive wellness in Thailand. A recent FMCG Gurus survey revealed:
- Digestive health is the second top health priority for Thai consumers over the next year.
- 1 in 2 Thais are actively seeking to improve digestive health.
- Over 80% recognize prebiotics as beneficial for gut health.
- 1 in 3 already consume prebiotic foods or supplements.
- 75% of Thai consumers view chicory root fibre as a healthy ingredient.
This regulatory recognition enables food and beverage manufacturers in Thailand to credibly promote digestive health benefits on-pack, meeting consumer demand and strengthening purchasing decisions.
Orafti® Inulin – A Globally Recognized Prebiotic
Orafti® Inulin is derived from chicory root via natural hot water extraction and is one of the few prebiotics recognized worldwide by the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP). Chicory root fibres are the most extensively studied prebiotics globally and remain the only plant-based prebiotic source available.
As non-digestible fibres, prebiotics such as Orafti® Inulin selectively stimulate the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, supporting digestive health, weight management, and overall well-being. Their benefits are backed by numerous clinical human trials.
Industry Impact and Statement
Caroline Bustandi, Head of Regulatory Affairs Asia Pacific at BENEO, stated:
“We are proud that BENEO’s chicory root fibre inulin is the first and only prebiotic to be recognized by the Thai FDA following a rigorous scientific review. This allows food and drink manufacturers in Thailand to innovate with Orafti® Inulin and clearly communicate its proven digestive health benefits. For consumers, it provides confidence to make informed choices that support their gut health, which is increasingly important across the Asia-Pacific region.”
Showcasing Innovation at Fi Asia 2025
BENEO will present its prebiotic solutions at Fi Asia 2025, held from 17–19 September 2025 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok (Booth L02). Visitors can experience innovative product concepts such as flavoured prebiotic water and brookies made with Orafti® Inulin. Additional prototypes will feature other functional ingredients, including tea gummies with Palatinose™ (a smart sugar) and crunchy noodle snacks enriched with Orafti® β-Fit barley flour, showcasing how indulgence and nutrition can go hand in hand.
About BENEO
Founded in 2007, BENEO is part of the Südzucker Group and specializes in developing plant-based functional ingredients for food, feed, and pharmaceuticals. With expertise spanning nutrition science, application technology, and regulatory guidance, BENEO helps manufacturers create products that improve health, taste, and texture.
Operating in more than 80 countries, BENEO employs over 1,200 people and runs seven state-of-the-art production facilities across Belgium, Chile, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands. The company also operates the BENEO-Institute and BENEO-Technology Center, which provide expertise in nutrition science, legislation, and application innovation.
For more information, visit www.beneo.com or follow BENEO on LinkedIn.
