The high purity fucoidan ingredient Maritech® Undaria pinnatifida extract has been scientifically validated as a prebiotic.
Fucoidans, polysaccharides found naturally in brown seaweeds, have been extensively studied for their gut and digestive health benefits. “The size and structure of fucoidan molecules are key to their prebiotic activity,” explained Mr Rod Shelley, Sales & Partnerships Director at Marinova. “Fucoidans pass through the stomach and small intestine unchanged, arriving in the large intestine where they selectively feed beneficial bacteria.”
Fucoidans are fermented by microbiota in the large intestine.
The 2025 International Probiotics Association publication of specific criteria for assessing potential compounds provides a clear assessment tool for the substantiation of prebiotics.
“Maritech® Undaria pinnatifida extract meets all five criteria that define prebiotics,” continued Mr Shelley. “Marinova welcomed the introduction of these criteria and the clarity they now provide to the prebiotic category.”
A 2025 study utilising a validated in vitro gut model provided the final evidence required for the innovative marine extract to be confirmed as a prebiotic. “The study explored the effects of Maritech® Undaria pinnatifida supplementation on the human colonic microbiome,” said Mr Shelley.
Key findings included enriched colonic microbial diversity, including species richness and evenness. Saccharolytic genera, such as Agathobacter, Hungatella and Eubacterium ventriosum were supported, whilst less favourable bacteria, such as Veillonella, were reduced. “Saccharolytic genera are important because they ferment undigested dietary carbohydrates to produce short-chain fatty acids,” explained Mr Shelley.
The study showed significantly increased levels of the short-chain fatty acid butyrate, known to assist in the maintenance of the gut barrier, stimulate gut motility and modulate both innate and adaptive immune responses.
The gut health properties of high purity fucoidans have been extensively researched.
Prebiotics: Selectively supporting the microbiome
Maritech® Undaria pinnatifida extract has been shown to:
- Improve microbial diversity
- Support beneficial bacteria and reduce unfavourable bacteria
- Support the production of short-chain fatty acids
- Be fermented by intestinal microbiota
- Resist digestion before reaching the large intestine
“Maritech® Undaria pinnatifida extract is an excellent choice for formulators looking for a high purity, certified organic, scientifically validated prebiotic,” finished Mr Shelley. “In addition to being a marine-derived microbiome modulator, it is a multifunctional ingredient also offering valuable support for immune and inflammatory responses.”
Marinova will be showcasing Maritech® organic fucoidans at Vitafoods Europe 2026.
- Visit Marinova at stand 3J227.
- Learn more about Maritech® Undaria pinnatifida extract in the New Ingredient Zone.
- Listen to the latest fucoidan research in the New Ingredients Theatre on Wednesday May 6 at 12pm.
Schedule an appointment with Marinova via info@marinova.com.au