fructanase

Fructanase is an **enzyme** that catalyzes the hydrolysis of fructans (complex polymers of fructose, such as inulin) found in many foods, into simpler sugars more readily absorbed or tolerated by the body[1][3][5][9]. Mechanistically, **fructanase cleaves the terminal (non-reducing) β-(2→1) and β-(2→6) fructosyl linkages of fructans**, thereby reducing the amount of fermentable substrate available to intestinal microbes[1][9]. This action is intended to help prevent gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating and flatulence that can occur in susceptible individuals, e.g., those with irritable bowel syndrome, after consumption of high-fructan foods[1][5][7]. Fructanase is obtained by fermentation of microorganisms, notably Aspergillus tubingensis, and is used both as a **digestive enzyme supplement for humans** and as a **feed additive in animal nutrition** to improve forage digestion[1][3][5]. It is classified as a GRAS (generally recognized as safe) ingredient for food use in the US[7]. No pharmaceutical drug approval exists; its primary use is as a **dietary supplement** or **food ingredient** to improve tolerance to high-FODMAP (fructan-rich) foods[1][5][7].

Other names

inulinasefructan hydrolasebeta-fructosidasebeta-fructofuranosidasefructan β-fructosidase