Beta-glucans (Yeast)
Yeast beta-glucans are a natural fraction of the cell wall of brewer’s or baker’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), rich in polysaccharides with predominant β-1,3/1,6 linkages. In dog and cat nutrition they are used as a functional ingredient and pet food additive in dry and wet diets, premixes and treats. Yeast beta-glucans are recognized for their role in supporting the immune response and overall condition, particularly during periods of stress, growth, dietary change or intensive activity in working and sporting dogs. In the pet food industry they are commonly associated with claims such as “immune support” and “gut health”, within the limits of nutrition-based communication.
Source
Yeast beta-glucans are obtained from:
- cell walls of Saccharomyces cerevisiae originating from brewing or fermentation by-products
- specially selected yeast strains optimized for higher β-1,3/1,6 glucan content
After mechanical and/or enzymatic processing, the cell walls are concentrated, dried and milled into a fine powder with standardized beta-glucan content.
Variations
- Concentrated yeast beta-glucan (standardized level of β-1,3/1,6 glucans)
- Whole yeast cell walls (mixture of beta-glucans, mannan-oligosaccharides and proteins)
- Microencapsulated forms for improved stability during extrusion and storage
- Dedicated pet-grade formulations adapted to the particle size and palatability of dog and cat food
Applications In The Industry
Dogs
In dog food, yeast beta-glucans are incorporated into premixes, complete kibbles, functional treats and complementary feeds. In puppy diets they help support the immune system in the period after weaning and vaccination, when defenses are still developing. In adult and working dogs, beta-glucans are used in products targeting higher physical load, travel or environmental changes, to nutritionally support resilience to stress and maintain body condition. In senior formulas they can be part of a “healthy aging” concept, alongside antioxidants and functional fibers, to support overall wellbeing and vitality. Thanks to their fine particle size, they are easy to include in premixes as well as in extruded all-life-stages diets.
Cats
In cats, yeast beta-glucans are used in complete dry and wet foods for “indoor”, “sterilised” and “sensitive” segments. In kitten diets they may form part of recipes focused on immune support during early growth. For adult indoor cats, where activity level is often lower, beta-glucans are combined with adjusted levels of protein, fat and fiber in concepts designed to maintain body condition and support gut health. In specialized formulas for stress-prone cats (transport, shows, household changes), moderate inclusion of beta-glucans helps create diets that nutritionally support overall stability of the organism.
Benefits Of Use
- Nutritional support for the immune response of dogs and cats, especially during growth and stress
- Contribution to better overall condition and vitality in pet food formulations
- Compatible with other functional ingredients (prebiotics, antioxidants, omega-3)
- Suitable for use in complete diets, premixes and functional treats for dogs and cats
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