I feel it in my gut ...

Bimuno, a transgalacto-oligosaccharide developed by UK-based firm Clasado with researchers at the University of Reading and the Institute of Food Research, has been clinically proven selectively to boost levels of beneficial Bifido bacteria in the large intestine. Unusually, it also has unique anti-adhesive effects, preventing pathogens such as E.coli and Salmonella from sticking to the gut wall.

Clasado, which launched Bimuno in March as a health food supplement, is now in negotiations with manufacturers interested in using it in foods and drinks, said chief executive Graham Waters. "We have a real point of difference over other prebiotics suppliers. You can also get the same effect without having to use as much of the raw material."

The prebiotics market is currently dominated by inulin and oligofructose from suppliers such as Orafti, Sensus and Cosucra, but several companies have launched galacto-oligosaccharide products in recent years and other prebiotic ingredients are likely to emerge, predict experts.

The principal characteristic of prebiotics is their ability to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestinal tract, and boost the effect of probiotic bacteria.

However, they have also been shown to increase mineral absorption and inhibit the growth of gut lesions - risk factors in colorectal disease

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