Vita Fiber / Isomalto-Oligosaccharide (IMO) được sản xuất bằng enzymatic treatment of liquefied starch with alpha-amylase, pullulanase, beta-amylase, and transglucosidase to create a blend of oligosaccharides featuring alpha-1,6 (isomaltose-like) linkages that resist complete digestion by human enzymes. Unlike FOS or inulin, IMO is partially digested in the small intestine (approximately 50-70% reaches the colon). Sản phẩm cung cấp moderate caloric value (2.0 kcal/g) with partial prebiotic benefits.
It is được sử dụng rộng rãi trong Asian markets (originally developed in Japan) and has gained popularity in North America in low-carb, ketogenic, and protein bar applications due to its sweetness, solubility, and humectancy. Note: FDA reclassified IMO in 2016, removing it from the dietary fiber definition for nutrition labeling purposes (though it remains a recognized food ingredient). It retains GRAS status and is permitted in Japan, Korea, China, EU, Canada, and many other markets.