Question

Non-digestible food substances that selectively stimulate the growth of favourable species of bacteria in gut are called
A. Probiotics
B. Prebiotics
C. Synbiotics
Select the most appropriate answer from the options given below

• A. A only
• B. B only
• C. A and B only
• D. A, B and C

Hint:

Gut Health Additives:
Prebiotics = Non-digestible fermentable FIBERS/sugars (FOS, MOS).
Probiotics = LIVE beneficial microbes.
Synbiotics = Probiotic + Prebiotic combination.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Gut microbiome modulation: prebiotics are non-digestible fermentable oligosaccharides that selectively nourish beneficial probiotic commensals in the host gastrointestinal tract.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Classification of gut health modulators:
1. Prebiotics (B only): Defined as non-digestible feed/food ingredients (e.g., Fructo-oligosaccharides [FOS], Mannan-oligosaccharides [MOS], Inulin) that resist host enzymatic hydrolysis and selectively stimulate the growth and metabolic activity of beneficial indigenous gut microorganisms (such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli).
2. Probiotics (A): Live microbial feed supplements (e.g., Lactobacillus acidophilus, Saccharomyces cerevisiae) that beneficially affect the host.
3. Synbiotics (C): Synergistic mixtures of probiotics and prebiotics.
Therefore, the definition applies strictly to Prebiotics (B only).

Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, the correct answer is B only, matching option (B).