The UK’s first prebiotic fibre-infused water is making a splash

ió fibrewater is the UK’s first prebiotic-infused water that is scientifically proven to increase friendly microbes (prebiotics) significantly – and in just a few days, as discovered in a recent Glasgow Caledonian University study (GCU).

This exciting collaboration, together with GCU has achieved a finalist nomination for The Prebiotic Company Ltd (the company that make ió fibrewater) by the Scottish Funding Council for the Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards – ‘Innovation of the Year 2023.’ (Winners announced March 23, 2023).

The journey began after researchers Dr John Butcher and Dr Ryan Kean from the School of Health and Life Sciences at Glasgow Caledonian University were awarded funding from the Scottish Funding Council to investigate the prebiotic properties of ió fibrewater, produced by Edinburgh-based The Prebiotic Company.

The term 'prebiotic' refers to the special and essential type of food that our body's friendly gut microbes (probiotics) need to flourish and grow. They are the cornerstone of gut health and provide nutrients and energy for probiotics to flourish, grow and create a healthier gut microbiome.

Prebiotics are scientifically proven (with over 4,000 research papers), showing positive effects on immune system function, digestive health and proper gut function, improving sleep, boosting mood, and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, obesity and colorectal cancer.

The Prebiotic Company Co-founder and Head of Partnerships and Business Development, Alyssa Reid, said: “Our aim is to help boost the nation's health with a product that not only tastes great but is scientifically proven. It’s great to see how well-received io fibrewater is, and receiving trade and academic recognition within its first year since launching in 2022 is amazing.”

In addition to being shortlisted for the Innovation of the Year award, The Prebiotic Company Ltd team also just found out that they have been shortlisted for the StartUp Awards for Scotland in the drinks category.

The team also picked up a highly sought-after Scottish Edge Wildcard award for Innovation and won the Scotland regional The Pitch Awards.

A jaw-dropping 90%[1] of people in the UK not getting enough fibre in their diets, and science is continuing to prove the incredible connection and importance of gut health in overall health and well-being.

A Kantar Changing Consumer Choices report found that 71% of consumers are searching for high-fibre products, and 62% are looking for products that support gut health.

ió fibrewater offers an innovative, unique, and enjoyable way for people to swap up from their usual beverages to a proven, functional drink that can positively impact and ultimately support their overall health and wellness.

Available in Lemon & Lime and Strawberry flavours, ió fibrewater delivers 100% of the daily prebiotic and 20% of the daily fibre intake. It is clear, tastes and feels like water (with just a splash of natural fruit flavour) and ticks all the boxes regarding health and taste.

ió fibrewater will be showcased at the upcoming IFE in London at the ExCel in the Scotland Food and Drink pavilion, stall 3511A.

[1] BBC, The lifesaving food 90% aren’t eating enough of https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-46827426