Synergistic bioactivity and application of polysaccharide-based prebiotics and probiotics on animal feed, foods and medicines: a review

Probiotics are microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host, and a growing body of research has verified that the comprehensive development and application of probiotic resources will have a significant positive impact on humanity. As an important and typical type of prebiotic, polysaccharides are high-molecular-weight biopolymers connected via glycosidic linkages, possessing excellent physicochemical properties and bioactivities. However, the synergistic bioactivity and application of polysaccharide-based prebiotics and probiotics have not yet received sufficient attention. Therefore, from the perspective of potential applications in animal feed, foods, and medicines, and considering that the sole use of probiotics or prebiotics often fails to achieve satisfactory outcomes, this study aims to explore the synergistic bioactivities and applications of polysaccharide-based prebiotics and probiotics. It was found that the co-supplementation of polysaccharides and probiotics shows significant promise for enhancing the growth and performance of animals, improving the flavor, texture, taste, and nutrition of foods, and preventing, relieving, and treating disease symptoms (such as obesity, inflammation, aging, and liver injury). Concurrently, it is necessary to consider the types, dosage ratios, and administration methods of polysaccharides and probiotics during their combined utilization.