New study shows carrot fiber prebiotic supports gut health in dogs

A recently published in vitro study¹ examined the effects of a low-dose plant-based prebiotic on gut microbial composition and metabolite production in dogs, comparing the results in dogs of different sizes. The prebiotic used in the study was the fermentable fiber carrot rhamnogalacturonan-I (cRG-I), marketed as Benicaros from NutrtiLeads, and made from upcycled carrot pomace. As the study stated, a balanced gut microbiome supports overall well-being in multiple ways, including increasing the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and other beneficial metabolites. It also noted that the diets of dogs typically are less varied than human diets, highlighting the importance of supporting gut health. The study, “Effects of cRG-I Prebiotic Treatment on Gut Microbiota Composition and Metabolic Activity in Dogs In Vitro,” was published in Microorganisms in August 2025.

The study evaluated samples from a total of 18 dogs from three size categories: small dogs (5–10 kg), six medium-sized dogs (10–27 kg), and six large dogs (27–45 kg) with treatment from cRG-I. The samples were also tested with the prebiotic inulin or xanthan as a comparison.

Highlighted results include:

• cRG-I supplementation reduced interindividual differences between the dogs, demonstrating a possible stabilizing effect on the gut microbiota
• cRG-I increased acetate and propionate production
• Microbiome responsiveness to fiber appeared to be affected by dog size and not treatment
• Levels of the keystone SFCA Phocaeicola vulgatus were increased by cRG-I in all size groups
• cRG-I and inulin increased levels of acetate and propionate
• Fermentation of cRG-I and inulin was seen in all the dogs, though xanthan fermentation was dependent on the individual dog

The researchers noted that the health effects of cRG-I supplementation observed in humans could possibly be applicable in dogs due to similarities in gut microbiomes.

“This consistent production of SCFAs and the ability to balance the gut microbiota composition, suggests potential health benefits with Benicaros® supplementation in dogs of all sizes,” stated Sue McKay, PhD, Nutrition & Health Manager at NutriLeads, in the press release. “These findings highlight Benicaros®’ value as a next-generation precision prebiotic for companion animal health.”

This study was funded by NutriLeads with the funding for sequencing from dsm-firmenich.

“As a partner in this research, we were impressed by the robust and consistent effects of Benicaros® on the canine gut microbiota of a broad target population,” stated Jeff Alix, Global Head of Business Development, Palatability & Microbiome at dsm-firmenich. “The ability of cRG-I to selectively enrich beneficial species while reducing variability across different dog sizes is promising. These findings not only reinforce the importance of precision prebiotics in dsm-firmenich’s ambition to develop next-generation pet nutrition solutions but also exemplify our commitment to sustainability. Benicaros® is upcycled from carrot pomace—a valuable side stream of vegetable processing—which directly supports our strategic objective of revalorizing production side streams into high-impact, science-backed ingredients. Through this approach, we advance both pet health and environmental stewardship.”

The press release noted that Benicaros can be formulated for use in supplements, treats, and pet foods. “Benicaros® will allow pet nutrition developers to formulate with confidence, knowing they’re delivering consistent, science-backed benefits,” stated Joana Carneiro-Wakefield, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of NutriLeads.

Reference

1. McKay, S.; Churchill, H.; Hayward, MR; Klein, BA; Van Meulebroek, L.; Ghyselinck, J.; Marzorati, M. Effects of cRG-I Prebiotic Treatment on Gut Microbiota Composition and Metabolic Activity in Dogs In Vitro. Microorganisms. 2025, 13(8), 1825. DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms13081825.