The global Short-chain Fructooligosaccharides (scFOS) market size is predicted to grow from US$ 284 million in 2025 to US$ 362 million in 2031; it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% from 2025 to 2031.

Short Chain Fructooligosaccharides (scFOS) are a type of carbohydrate made up of 2–9 fructose molecules linked together, with a glucose molecule typically at one end. They belong to the broader category of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and are considered prebiotic fibers. Unlike digestible carbohydrates, scFOS resist breakdown in the small intestine and reach the colon intact, where they serve as a food source for beneficial gut bacteria like bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. This fermentation process supports gut health, improves nutrient absorption, and may enhance the immune system, making scFOS a valuable component in functional foods and dietary supplements.

Market Trends

The global market for short chain fructooligosaccharides is expanding due to increasing consumer awareness of gut health and the demand for prebiotic ingredients. The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is the largest consumer, accounting for 52.02% of global sales in 2022, driven by high demand in China and Japan. Europe is also a significant market, though inulin-derived FOS dominate due to the region's abundant local inulin supply. Key global players include Meiji, QHT, and Baolingbao Biology for scFOS, while in Europe, BMI and Galam are prominent suppliers of short-chain FOS products.

Applications and Opportunities

Short chain fructooligosaccharides are widely used in functional foods, beverages, dietary supplements, and infant formulas due to their prebiotic properties and health benefits. The increasing focus on digestive health and immunity presents significant opportunities for market growth, particularly in emerging economies. Innovations in production methods, such as enzymatic synthesis from sucrose, have made scFOS more accessible and cost-effective. With APAC and Europe leading consumption and ongoing research into additional health benefits, scFOS is expected to see continued adoption in both food and pharmaceutical applications globally.

Segmentation by Type

• Liquid FOS
• Solid FOS

Segmentation by Application

• Food Industry
• Baby Nutrition Products
• Health Products
• Others

Market by Region

• Americas
• APAC
• Europe
• Middle East & Africa

Companys coverage

• Meiji
• QHT
• Baolingbao Biology
• BMI
• Bailong
• Galam
• Ingredion

Key Questions Addressed in this Report

• What is the 10-year outlook for the global Short-chain Fructooligosaccharides (scFOS) market?
• What factors are driving Short-chain Fructooligosaccharides (scFOS) market growth, globally and by region?
• Which technologies are poised for the fastest growth by market and region?
• How do Short-chain Fructooligosaccharides (scFOS) market opportunities vary by end market size?
• How does Short-chain Fructooligosaccharides (scFOS) break out by Type, by Application?