Inulin Powder Supplier,Origin in China

Inulin powder is a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in plants, also known as inulin. It is primarily derived from the tuberous roots of plants, particularly those in the Asteraceae family, such as chicory and Jerusalem artichoke. Inulin powder is obtained by extracting it from the roots, followed by steps to remove proteins, minerals, and other components, and then using processes like spray drying to produce a white, powdery substance.

Ⅰ.Characteristics of Inulin Powder

1. Physical Properties:

·Appearance: White, amorphous powder.

·Solubility: Easily soluble in hot water, with solubility increasing as the temperature rises. Short-chain inulin is generally more water-soluble than long-chain inulin.

·Hygroscopicity: Inulin powder has strong hygroscopic properties, meaning it can bind free water and reduce water activity.

2. Chemical Properties:

·Inulin molecules are composed of multiple β-D-fructofuranose and a few pyranose inulin residues, linked by β-2,1-glycosidic bonds.

·Inulin is easily hydrolyzed into fructose under dilute acid conditions, a characteristic common to all fructans. Additionally, inulin can be hydrolyzed into fructose by inulinase.

3. Form of Existence:

·Inulin exists in a colloidal form within the protoplasm of plant cells. Unlike starch, it is readily soluble in hot water but does not react with iodine.

Ⅱ. Sources

Inulin is widely present in various plants, but it is mainly concentrated in the tuberous roots of plants in the Asteraceae family, such as chicory and Jerusalem artichoke, with the latter containing the highest inulin content. In addition to Asteraceae plants, inulin is also found in other plants like those in the Campanulaceae and Gentianaceae families, though in smaller amounts.

Ⅲ. Applications and Benefits

Inulin powder, as a natural functional food ingredient, offers several health benefits, including:

·Lowering Blood Lipids: Inulin can ferment into short-chain fatty acids and lactate before reaching the distal colon, regulating liver metabolism and thereby reducing serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels.

·Lowering Blood Sugar: Inulin is not hydrolyzed into monosaccharides in the upper gastrointestinal tract, so it does not raise blood glucose levels or insulin content. Additionally, it can improve insulin resistance and enhance pancreatic β-cell function.

·Boosting Immunity: Inulin promotes the proliferation of beneficial gut bacteria, such as bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, improving gut microbiota and thereby activating gut-associated lymphoid tissue, which enhances the body's immune response.

Inulin powder is a natural polysaccharide with significant nutritional value and health benefits, making it widely used in food, dietary supplements, and other fields.