Organic pulse crop-based prebiotic carbohydrates for prenatal and maternal health

Overview

This solution offers organic, non-allergenic, and non-GMO prebiotic carbohydrates sourced from pulse crops such as lentils. Unlike conventional prebiotics that rely on chemical modifications and may carry GMO or allergen risks, these naturally occurring prebiotic ingredients provide a clean-label alternative for prenatal and maternal health applications. The technology addresses a critical gap in the market by delivering prebiotic powders or pill formulations that support healthy gut bacteria in expectant mothers and developing fetuses, with potential to extend into infant formula products.

Technical specifications

Key features:

• Source material: Pulse crops including lentils, providing naturally occurring prebiotic carbohydrates
• Two patented isolation processes developed to extract prebiotic carbohydrates with minimal chemical use
• Clean-label profile: 100% organic, non-GMO, allergen-free, and free of pesticides and toxic chemicals
• Scalable production: Current capacity to produce tens of kilogram quantities of different prebiotic powders and combinations
• Flexible formats: Suitable for incorporation into pills, milk powder, or infant formulations
• Validated health benefits in rat models:
  • Significantly lower mean body weight compared to control diets
  • Reduced mean percent body fat and plasma triglyceride concentrations
  • Increased fecal abundance of beneficial Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes
  • Decreased abundance of Firmicutes, a phylum containing multiple pathogenic species

Technology readiness level

The technology is currently at TRL 5, with demonstrated efficacy in relevant animal models. Two patented isolation processes have been developed and are ready for scale-up. Future validation plans include collaborating with industry partners to develop finished prebiotic formulations as pills or powders, with additional studies in animal models or human subjects to confirm maternal and fetal health benefits. The research team is positioned to engage with USDA or national laboratory partners for human clinical studies as needed.