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Inulin

Level 3 — ContestedIn Winter's Dictionary2 sources

Inulin is a thickener gum — Water binder, emulsifier, stabilizer, texturizer; prebiotic

What it does

Water binder, emulsifier, stabilizer, texturizer; prebiotic

Where you'll see it

Probiotic ice cream, chicory

What the research says

Because fermentable, can cause gas. [ultra-processed-people] Industrial fibre/prebiotic used in low-calorie reformulation. Van Tulleken's broader concern is conflict-of-interest: Sensus (which produces inulin and oligofructose) had a board member (Kees de Graaf) who co-authored an industry-friendly paper arguing 'hyper-processing' could solve UPF problems — published under a 'no conflict of interest' statement. Industry uses inulin to claim 'high fibre' on bars and dairy products that remain UPF.

Benefits

Prebiotic; may enhance texture of probiotic ice cream.

Regulatory status

  • US FDA: GRAS

Sources

  • Ultra-Processed People (van Tulleken) — Chapter 11: UPF is pre-chewed: Kees de Graaf, was on the board of Sensus (a company that produces food ingredients inulin and oligofructose)
  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): because it is fermentable, it can cause gas