Galacto Oligosaccharides
Nutritionally, GOS is a powerhouse for gut health-it specifically fuels the growth of key beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli in the colon, while inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens.
Functionally, GOS offers significant advantages for snack development- It acts as a humectant, helping snacks retain moisture to maintain freshness and a desirable texture (e.g., keeping baked snacks soft or confectionery creamy).
From a regulatory perspective, GOS enjoys widespread global approval-it is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the U.S. FDA, approved for prebiotic health claims by the EU EFSA, and certified under Japan’s FOSHU (Foods for Specified Health Uses) program.
Product Applications: Global Snack Products Powered by Galacto-Oligosaccharides (GOS)
GOS’s unique blend of gut-friendly benefits, mild sweetness, and formulation flexibility has made it a favorite among snack manufacturers worldwide. Below are 5 standout examples from different countries, showcasing how GOS elevates the nutritional value and consumer appeal of diverse snack categories—from dairy treats to savory bites.
Netherlands: FrieslandCampina “Joyya GOS Yogurt Coated Berries”
FrieslandCampina, a leading Dutch dairy brand, leverages GOS in its “Joyya GOS Yogurt Coated Berries”—a popular snack targeting health-conscious adults and families. Made with freeze-dried strawberries and blueberries coated in a creamy yogurt layer, the snack incorporates GOS derived from milk lactose to deliver 2g of prebiotic fiber per 30g serving. The GOS serves two key roles here: first, it enhances the yogurt coating’s creaminess, preventing it from becoming brittle during storage; second, it adds a subtle sweetness that complements the tartness of the berries, reducing the need for added sugar (the product contains 35% less sugar than standard yogurt-coated snacks).
FrieslandCampina prominently markets the snack’s “gut-friendly” benefits on packaging, highlighting GOS’s role in supporting “healthy gut flora” and immune function. The product is a top-seller in Dutch supermarkets (e.g., Albert Heijn) and has expanded to other European markets, demonstrating GOS’s compatibility with dairy-based snacks and its appeal to consumers seeking convenient, nutrient-dense treats.
United States: Annie’s “GOS-Infused Cheddar Bunnies”
Annie’s, a U.S. brand known for organic, family-friendly snacks, has enhanced its iconic “Cheddar Bunnies” crackers with GOS to create a healthier version of a childhood favorite. The snack uses GOS derived from organic lactose to add 1.5g of prebiotic fiber per serving, with no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Unlike some fibers that can alter the texture of savory crackers, GOS blends seamlessly into the dough, preserving the Bunnies’ signature crispness and sharp cheddar flavor—making it a hit with parents seeking snacks that support their kids’ gut health without sacrificing taste.
Annie’s markets the product as “Gut-Healthy Snacks for Kids” and has positioned it in the organic and children’s snack sections of major U.S. retailers (e.g., Walmart, Whole Foods). This application showcases GOS’s ability to transform classic, kid-centric snacks into functional options, addressing the growing parental demand for “snacks that work for their kids’ health.”
Japan: Morinaga “GOS Milk Pudding”
Morinaga, a renowned Japanese food brand, uses GOS in its “GOS Milk Pudding”—a creamy, indulgent snack certified under Japan’s FOSHU program for its gut health benefits. The pudding is formulated with GOS derived from milk, delivering 1.2g of prebiotic fiber per single-serve cup. The GOS enhances the pudding’s smooth, silky texture by preventing syneresis (the separation of liquid) and adds a mild sweetness that balances the rich milk flavor—eliminating the need for excessive added sugar (the product has 25% less sugar than Morinaga’s regular milk pudding).
Morinaga’s packaging emphasizes GOS’s role in “supporting intestinal health” and “improving calcium absorption,” key selling points in Japan’s health-focused market. The pudding is widely available in Japanese convenience stores (e.g., Lawson, FamilyMart) and grocery stores, appealing to consumers of all ages—from kids to seniors—seeking a delicious, gut-friendly dessert snack.
United Kingdom: Graze “GOS Protein Balls” (Chocolate & Peanut Butter Flavor)
Graze, a UK-based snack brand specializing in portion-controlled, healthy snacks, incorporates GOS into its “GOS Protein Balls” (Chocolate & Peanut Butter flavor) to create a balanced on-the-go option. Each serving (3 balls) contains 4g of protein and 1.8g of GOS (sourced from milk lactose), targeting busy professionals and fitness enthusiasts seeking snacks that support both muscle recovery and gut health. The GOS acts as a binding agent, holding the blend of dates, peanuts, chocolate, and protein powder together while adding a natural sweetness—reducing the need for added syrups or sugars.
Graze markets the product as a “Dual-Benefit Snack” (protein + prebiotics) and sells it in supermarkets (e.g., Tesco, Sainsbury’s) and via its subscription snack boxes. This application highlights GOS’s versatility in grab-and-go snacks, proving that prebiotic benefits can be seamlessly integrated into portable, protein-rich options.
Australia: Bega “GOS Cream Cheese & Crackers Pack”
Bega, a leading Australian dairy brand, has launched a “GOS Cream Cheese & Crackers Pack”—a convenient, single-serve snack that combines GOS-infused cream cheese with whole-grain crackers. The cream cheese contains 1g of GOS per serving, derived from Australian milk, and is formulated to be smooth and spreadable, with a mild tang that pairs perfectly with the crunchy crackers. The GOS not only adds prebiotic benefits but also improves the cream cheese’s shelf life by inhibiting microbial growth, ensuring freshness even in convenience store settings.
Bega markets the pack to busy Australians seeking “quick, gut-friendly snacks” for work or travel, and it is available in major Australian retailers (e.g., Coles, Woolworths) and service stations. This application demonstrates GOS’s adaptability to dairy spreads, expanding its use beyond traditional snack categories and catering to consumers seeking convenient, balanced meals-on-the-go.
