Wageningen University & Research leads innovative AI-driven consortium to predict gut microbiome reactions to dietary fiber

The FIBERME project focuses on the fiber microbiome response prediction with AI. The project aims to enhance scientific understanding of how various dietary fibers interact with the human gut microbiome, a crucial network of microorganisms in the intestines. This microbiome plays a vital role in maintaining overall health, including digestion, immune function, and mental well-being. Given the increasing prevalence of low fiber intake in many populations worldwide, which is linked to reduced microbial diversity and increased health risks, FIBERME’s research holds critical importance for public health.

Understanding how plant-based fibers modulate the human gut microbiome

FIBERME will explore how fibers derived from protein crops (i.e.crops grown for plant protein production), particularly from plant-based food by-products, affect the gut microbiome. The project will determine the most effective fiber fractions and/or combination thereof to promote human gut health, focusing on identifying fibers that can enhance microbial diversity and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system. Central to the project is the creation of a comprehensive database of over 2,000 fermentation lab-based experiments that analyze how different fibers influence gut microbiota composition and functionality. This research will help uncover the biochemical reactions with which specific fibers are metabolized by gut bacteria, linking them to improved digestion, disease prevention, and overall gut health.

One of the project’s key innovations is the development of an AI-powered prediction model, which will forecast the effects of various dietary fibers on the gut microbiome. Using data from human studies and fermentation analyses, this tool will enable the food industry to design personalized, fiber-rich products that promote specific health outcomes. Additionally, FIBERME has the potential to enable rationally designed fiber mixes that provide targeted microbiome benefits. By leveraging insights from fermentation and microbiome analyses, the project aims to identify optimized fiber blends that support specific health functions, such as enhancing short-chain fatty acid production, reducing inflammation, or improving gut barrier integrity. This capability will empower the food industry to develop next-generation fiber formulations tailored for precise gut health benefits.

FIBERME's findings will equip the food industry with actionable insights to create healthy, fiber-enriched foods.

Potential of the FIBERME approach

FIBERME’s AI tool aims to assist food manufacturers to create dietary solutions that align fiber consumption with societal health goals. This AI-driven approach will open new avenues for providing consumers with products tailored to support specific health outcomes, such as digestive and metabolic health. By optimizing the types and amounts of fibers used in food products, we hope the food industry will be able to offer highly effective solutions for promoting overall well-being. The project plans to conduct a human study to validate the laboratory results and finetune the AI prediction model. This direct connection between research and human health applications positions FIBERME at the forefront of nutritional science and its impact on everyday health.

Project impact

The outcomes of FIBERME are expected to allow much better insight into the effects of fibers on the gut microbiome. By leveraging AI, the project will provide valuable insights that will help food manufacturers create healthier, fiber-rich products. This initiative aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such a “Zero Hunger” (SDG2) by ensuring the whole crop can be leveraged for food consumption and “Good Health and Well-being”(SDG3) by ensuring that the gut microbiome is positively impacted by the fibers used for food production.

Project Consortium

The FIBERME project brings together a diverse consortium of partners, including Unilever, Cargill, DSM-Firmenich, Junlebao, Dossche Mills, Ingredion, Mars, along with Wageningen University & Research. This collaboration ensures a multidisciplinary approach, combining expertise in food science, microbiology, artificial intelligence, and human nutrition & health science. For more information about FIBERME, please contact Martijn Bekker.