Ingredient
Cassava Fiber
What is Cassava Fiber?
Cassava fiber is derived from the cassava plant, a starchy root native to South America. It's processed to remove the starch, leaving behind a fibrous component that is used as a dietary fiber in food products.
It's used as a functional ingredient in snack bars and other products to increase fiber content. Research on cassava fiber is limited, but like other dietary fibers, it may aid digestion and promote a feeling of fullness. Most studies support the benefits of dietary fibers, although specific findings about cassava fiber itself are sparse.
When you see cassava fiber on a label, it's typically being used to enhance the fiber content of the product, without contributing many calories.
Commonly found in: Snack Bars, Baked Goods, Cereal, Nutritional Supplements, Dietary Fiber Supplements
Benefits
- Cassava fiber can help increase dietary fiber intake, which is important for digestive health.
Cassava and its fiber component are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA.
While fibers are generally beneficial, specific evidence on cassava fiber is limited; findings suggest it contributes to dietary fiber benefits.
Cassava fiber is plant-derived and typically aligns with vegan dietary choices.
Cassava fiber, despite being fiber, may contain some carbohydrates that conflict with strict keto guidelines.
Sources: GRAS Notice for Cassava
Scout's take
Plant-based prebiotic fiber from cassava root. Provides 8g dietary fiber per bar. More functional than tapioca starch as it retains the fiber fraction.
The case against
May cause mild digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Primal Power Ancestral Fuel BarThe case for
Provides 8g prebiotic dietary fiber supporting gut health.
from the analysis of Primal Power Ancestral Fuel BarFound in 1 product
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