Abstract:

Objective: To evaluate the effect of konjac oligosaccharides (KOS), prepared by semi-drying enzymatic
hydrolysis, on the rat intestinal environment. Methods: The cecal contents, cecal parameters and small intestinal parameters
of Sprague-Dawley rats were measured to evaluate the safety of KOS after 30 days of dietary incorporation with KOS.
Results: KOS could significantly increase the moisture content of rat feces and the surface area of the cecum wall, the tensile
strength of the small intestine, the total amounts of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium spp., Lactobacillus and reduce
pH and moisture, volatile aldehydes and nitrogenous substances contents of the cecal contents. In addition, KOS inhibited
the growth of Escherichia coli and Bacterium fusiformis and increased the total amount of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).
Conclusion: KOS can adjust the intestinal microflora, improve the intestinal environment and promote intestinal health as an
excellent prebiotic.

Key words: konjac oligosaccharides (KOS), intestinal environment, cecal contents, prebiotic