Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide
Description
Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide is a glucose oligomer exhibiting a degree of polymerization ranging from 2 to 10. It is prepared by the action of a Leuconostoc mesenteroides glucosyl transferase on sucrose. The α-D-glucopyranose monomers are linked by (1-2), (1-6), and (1-4) bonds.
Function
Properties
Regulatory Status
Gold-standard prebiotic substrate for microbiome-targeting formulations that selectively feeds beneficial bacteria while inhibiting harmful species and eliminating biofilms through competitive exclusion of pathogens. Quorum-sensing inhibition provides meaningful anti-acne mechanism. Most regulatory-friendly microbiome ingredient category with no live organisms, no TVC complications, or prohibited ingredient conflicts. Performs best in synbiotic combinations with inulin and lactobacillus ferments; concentration precision is critical for maintaining microbiome selectivity.
Permitted as cosmetic ingredient; safest microbiome category from FDA perspective with no live organism viability concerns; MoCRA 2026 compliance required