The most abundant polysaccharide in the plant world
Cellulose is an insoluble dietary fiber made of long chains of glucose molecules linked together and is the most abundant polysaccharide in the plant world. It forms a key structural component of plant cell walls and is present in nearly all fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Industrially, cellulose used in food and supplements is often derived from purified plant sources such as wood pulp or cotton seed.
SUMMARY
Cellulose is an insoluble, plant-based dietary fiber that supports stool bulk and normal bowel regularity.
The physiological function of cellulose
Unlike soluble fibers, cellulose is not fermentable by human gut bacteria to a significant extent and passes through the digestive tract largely intact. Its physiological function is to add bulk to stool, support intestinal motility and maintain regular bowel function. These effects can be especially valuable in individuals with insufficient fiber intake or those who benefit from mild digestive support.
Use in the food industry
Due to its neutral taste, chemical stability and water-insoluble nature, cellulose is widely used in the food industry as a texturizer, anti-caking agent and bulking agent. It is commonly found in fiber-enriched baked goods, cereals, ready-to-eat meals and nutritional supplements.
Cellulose is a valuable component in certain nutritional contexts.
Although cellulose does not provide fermentation-related benefits like some soluble fibers, such as prebiotic inulin or oligofructose from the chicory root, its ability to support stool consistency and transit makes it a valuable component in specific dietary contexts.
Fermentation
Cellulose is a type of dietary fiber that is not absorbed in the small intestine. It reaches the large intestine where it is fermented by the resident gut microbiota, according to this ETHZ Research Collection article.
SCFA production
This fermentation process produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which have various health benefits for the gut and the body.
Gut health
By promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, cellulose helps to modulate the gut microbiota, improve intestinal barrier function, and potentially reduce inflammation.
A word on terminology
Beyond its prebiotic effects, cellulose acts as a bulking agent that helps with regular bowel movements and can play a role in weight management and blood sugar control.
Other types of prebiotic fibers
Oligofructose
Oligofructose (Fructo-oligosaccharide or FOS), a short-chain form of inulin, is a prebiotic fiber derived from chicory root. It’s commonly added to foods and supplements for its health benefits and sugar replacement.
Galacto-oligosaccharide
Galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS) is a prebiotic fiber produced from lactose. It is commonly used in infant formula, dairy products and supplements to support health.
Please feel free to contact us for further information about cellulose.
References
Ariyarathna, P.; Mizera, P.; Walkowiak, J.; Dziedzic, K. Physicochemical and Functional Properties of Soluble and Insoluble Dietary Fibers in Whole Grains and Their Health Benefits. Foods 2025, 14, 2447. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14142447