Dietary Fibers

Dietary fibers are carbohydrates that the body cannot digest. They are found in plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Fiber is not typically 'made' but is a component of these foods, though some fibers are isolated or modified for food use.

Manufacturers add dietary fibers to foods to increase their fiber content, which can improve texture and provide a feeling of fullness. They are often found in products marketed as "high fiber" or "healthy," such as breakfast cereals, granola bars, and baked goods.

Dietary fibers are recognized as important components of a healthy diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers fiber sources that meet certain criteria to be Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). International bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated dietary fibers. Research generally supports the role of adequate fiber intake in digestive health and may be associated with reduced risk of certain chronic diseases, though evidence can vary for specific types of fiber.