Synbiotic combination for young children

Abstract

The invention concerns the specific combination of non-digestible saccharides and lactic acid producing bacteria that was found to be especially suitable for young children, facilitating the most favorable development of the microbiota from an infant-like to an adult-like type taking into account the composition as well as the metabolic activity, and on top of that, advantageously enabling a high level of intestinal butyrate formation.

Description

[0001] SYMBIOTIC COMBINATION FOR YOUNG CHILDREN

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention is in the field of nutritional compositions for young children comprising mixtures of dietary fibres and probiotics that have a beneficial effect on the development of the microbiota.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Fibres are an important part of the diet for young and old. They have many beneficial effects, in particular on gut health. For infants a source of dietary fibres are the human milk oligosaccharides (HMOS) as found in human milk. Infant formulas have been designed to mimic functionally and / or structurally the human milk oligosaccharides. For example, mixtures of galactooligosaccharides (GOS) and polyfructose or long-chain fructooligosaccharides (IcFOS) were found to reduce the number of hard stools in infants (Moro et al., J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2002;34(3):291-295). Infant formulas with molecules structurally identical to human milk oligosaccharides are also known in the art. In adult nutrition the dietary fibres are mainly derived from plant sources and consist of a mixture of soluble and insoluble fibre, a mixture of indigestible poly- and oligosaccharides, and fermentable and non- fermentable fibres. EP0756 828 describes a fibre mix with a composition representing the dietary fibre in a typical adult Western diet.

[0006] However, research on the effect of fibres and probiotics in young children is scarce. Young children have specific nutritional requirements. Their immune system and intestinal microbiota are still in a transitional phase from an infant gut microbiota predominant in Bifidobacterium, a genus of the phylum Actinomycetota (formerly Actinobacteria) and an intestinal environment high in lactic acid, acetic acid and an acidic pH towards a more complex and diversified microbiota, with increasing levels of the phyla Bacteroidota (formerly Bacteroidetes) and Bacillota (formerly Firmicutes) towards adult-level abundances and an intestinal environment with a mildly acidic pH and with increased levels of propionic acid and butyric acid and no detectable or reduced levels of lactic acid. The microbiota of young children still differs from that of adults, which is mainly marked by more abundant levels of Bifidobacterium indicating that this genus has an important role in the gradual maturation of gut microbiota into adulthood. Di Gioia, D., Aloisio, I., Mazzola, G. et al. Bifidobacteria: their impact on gut microbiota composition and their applications as probiotics in infants. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 98, 563-577 (2014) describe that in the transition from an infant-type to a more adult-type microbiota Bifidobacteria play an important role.

[0007] Ensuring in a young child that the transition from infant to adult microbiota follows the right progression can provide long lasting health benefits. Furthermore, unhealthy eating habits are quite prevalent in this age category leading to several health and nutritional challenges. Many toddlers do not consume a sufficient amount of fibres. This may result in an increased risk for functional gastrointestinal disorders. Constipation for example is one of the most prevalent functional gastrointestinal disorders in young children. The occurrence of constipation in toddlers and children can be high and was reported to be 10% in the second year of life (Loehning-Baucke, J Pediatr 2005; 146:359-363). Other report mentions prevalence up to 27 %. Functional constipation, also known as chronic idiopathic constipation, has a large impact on the quality of life and healthcare costs. Lactulose or poly-ethylene glycol are commonly prescribed laxatives in case of chronic childhood constipation. However, these are fibres not naturally occurring in food, having their effect mainly in the proximal colon and having no additional benefits for the child. In addition in young children the immune system is still developing. Building tolerance to harmless substances, fighting infections and building immune memory to fight infections is extremely important.

[0008] WO 2024 / 052577 discloses a fibre mixture comprising arabinoxylan, beta-glucan, pectin, and resistant starch, and uses thereof in for example toddlers for improving intestinal health.

[0009] WO 2022 / 122958 discloses a mixture of beta-galactooligosaccharides, inulin, soluble soy fibre and resistant starch suitable for young children.

[0010] However, further improvements can be made in the design in optimal mixes of fibres and probiotics for young children in order to enable a smooth transition for infant type to adult type gut microbiome and to improve the gut health. Especially in optimal mixes that result in increased amounts of intestinal butyrate. Therefore, there is a need for an improved tailored and age-adapted mixture of non-digestible saccharides and lactic acid producing bacteria, to be applied in nutritional composition for young children.

[0011] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Based on preclinical data obtained with a faecal slurry fermentation model using faecal material from young children the inventors found after extensive testing of numerous combinations of non-digestible saccharides (NDS) and lactic acid producing bacteria (LAPB) that a combination of specific LAPB with a specific NDS mixture comprising arabinoxylan, cereal comprising beta-glucan, soy fibre and resistant starch resulted in the most increased total bacterial cell count. The combination of specific LAPB with the specific NDS mixture comprising arabinoxylan, cereal comprising beta-glucan, soy fibre and resistant starch showed the most marked increase in Bacteroidota and in Firmicutes. Altogether, in comparison with a combination of the LAPB with a specific NDS mixture developed for infant formula comprising GOS and IcFOS with or without HMOS, the present specific combination steered the microbiota more towards a microbiota that is adult-like in particular towards a microbiota comprising potent propionate producing bacteria.

[0013] When looking at specific metabolites, surprisingly a significantly higher butyrate production was found with the specific synbiotic combination of the NDS mixture with a mixture of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum and at least one Lactobacillus selected from the group consisting of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus paracasei and Lactobacillus plantarum, when compared to the mixture of NDS without LAPB or combination with other LAPB. Likewise, surprisingly a significantly higher butyrate production was found with the specific synbiotic combination of the NDS mixture with a mixture of Lactobacillus acidophilus and at least one Bifidobacterium selected from the group consisting of B. breve, B. bifidum, and B. longum subsp. longum, when compared to the mixture of NDS without LAPB or combination with other LAPB.

[0014] This butyrate production was best increased when Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum was combined with L. acidophilus. The increased butyrate production was associated with a specific increase of lactate-utilizing and butyrate producing bacterial species.

[0015] Therefore, the specific combination of the NDS mixture of arabinoxylan, cereal comprising beta-glucan,, soy fibre and resistant starch and either the LAPB mixture of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum and at least one Lactobacillus selected from the group consisting of L. acidophilus, L. helveticus, L. paracasei and L. plantarum, or the LAPB mixture of Lactobacillus acidophilus and at least one Bifidobacterium selected from the group consisting of 8. breve, B. bifidum, and 8. longum subsp. longum is especially suitable for young children, facilitating a more favorable development of the microbiota from an infant-like to an adult-like type taking into account the composition as well as the metabolic activity.

[0016] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The invention thus concerns a combination of a mixture of non-digestible saccharides and a mixture of lactic acid producing bacteria comprising

[0018] - as non-digestible saccharides a mixture of arabinoxylan, cereal fibre comprising beta-glucan, soy fibre and resistant starch, and as lactic acid producing bacteria

[0019] - either a mixture of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum and at least one Lactobacillus selected from the group consisting of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus paracasei and Lactobacillus plantarum.

[0020] - or a mixture of Lactobacillus acidophilus and at least one Bifidobacterium selected from the group consisting of 8. breve, B. bifidum, and B. longum subsp. longum.

[0021] Mixtures of non-digestible saccharides

[0022] The present invention is about a mixture or a nutritional composition comprising a mixture of specific non-digestible saccharides (NDS) and lactic acid producing bacteria (LAPB). Non-digestible saccharides for purpose of the present invention are synonym with non-digestible carbohydrates. Non- digestible saccharides are saccharides that are resistant to digestion and absorption in the human stomach and small intestine and enter the colon intact. So, compounds like lactose, maltose, glucose, standard maltodextrin, and standard starch are regarded as digestible. NDS can be soluble or insoluble in water. The term "soluble" as used herein, when having reference to a NDS, means that the substance is water soluble according to the method described by L. Prosky et al., J. Assoc. Off. Anal. Chem. 71 , 1017-1023 (1988). If a NDS is not water soluble according to the method described by Prosky, the NDS is considered insoluble. NDS can be fermentable in the colon, or non-fermentable. The term “fermentable” refers to the capability to undergo (anaerobic) breakdown by micro-organisms in the lower part of the gastro-intestinal tract, e.g. colon, to smaller molecules, in particular short chain fatty acids and lactate. The fermentability may be determined by the method described in Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 53, 1418-1424 (1991). NDS can be as short as a dimer of 2 monomeric carbohydrate moieties but can also have an average degree of polymerization well above 1500. NDS with a degree of polymerization 2 - 9 are considered oligosaccharides, whereas NDS with a degree of polymerization of 10 or above are considered polysaccharides.

[0023] The present NDS mixture comprises arabinoxylan, cereal fibre comprising beta-glucan, soy fibre and resistant starch. Preferably the resistant starch is resistant starch type III. It was found that such a mixture steered the microbiota towards a microbiota that is adult-like also with respect to the pattern of metabolites formed.

[0024] Arabinoxylan

[0025] The NDS mixture according to the present invention comprises arabinoxylan. Arabinoxylans are hemicellulose dietary fibres abundant in the bran of many cereal grains including wheat, oat, rice, psyllium and corn. Arabinoxylan comprises a linear backbone of beta-(1 — >4) bonded xylose units to which alpha L-arabinose substituents are joined via 0-2 and / or 0-3 groups. They pass undigested through the human intestine until they reach the colon where they provide substrates for bacterial fermentation, generating beneficial short-chain fatty acids including acetate, butyrate and propionate. As viscous fibres, arabinoxylans help suppress appetite, delay gastric emptying and slow post-prandial glucose and insulin responses as well as promote laxation. Their beneficial effects on post-prandial glucose responses have been recognised by the European Food Safety Authority, and the European Union has authorised a health claim that ‘consumption of arabinoxylan as part of a meal contributes to a reduction of the blood glucose rise after that meal’.

[0026] According to the present invention the arabinoxylan is preferably from oat, wheat, psyllium, corn or rice. Most preferably the arabinoxylan in the fibre mixture according to the invention is from corn. A suitable source of arabinoxylan is PureFiber AX is used (supplier PureFiber).

[0027] A sufficient amount of arabinoxylan is advantageous for children, in particular toddlers, in particular paediatric patients and / or constipated children since it advantageously results in a fermentation at the more distal part of the colon. The use of arabinoxylan advantageously results in the formation of intestinal propionate and butyrate. The use of arabinoxylan together with the other NDS and in combination with the mixture of LAPB according to the invention, results in an intestinal microbiota steered towards a microbiota that is adult-like, e.g. intermediate between infant-type and adult.

[0028] Cereal fibre comprising beta-glucan

[0029] The present mixture of NDS comprises cereal fibre comprising beta-glucan, preferably cereal fibre comprising at least 30 wt% beta-glucan based on total cereal fibre, preferably cereal fibre comprising at least 50 wt% beta-glucan based on total cereal fibre, even more preferably cereal fibre comprising at least 90 wt% beta-glucan based on total cereal fibre. Beta-glucan is a non-starch polysaccharide composed of beta-D-glucose monomer units holding a glycosidic linkage at beta (1— >3), (1 — >4), and / or (1 — >6), either in a branched or in an unbranched manner. Cereal beta-glucans - including beta-glucan from oat, barley and wheat - are linear polysaccharides joined by 1 ,3 and 1 ,4 carbon linkages. The majority of cereal beta-glucan bonds consist of 3 or 4 beta-1 ,4 glycosidic bonds (trimers and tetramers) interconnected by 1 ,3 linkages. In cereal beta-glucan, these trimers and tetramers are known as cellotriosyl and cellotetraosyl. Oats and barley differ in the ratio of cellotriosyl to cellotetraosyl, and oat has less 1-4 linkages with a degree of polymerization higher than 4. In oat beta-glucan the ratio between cellotriosyl and cellotetraosyl units is between 1 .5 and 2.3 and in barley 1 .8 to 3.5. Oat beta-glucan is water soluble and may reach MW of between 1.1 and 1 .6 MDa.

[0030] According to the present invention the composition preferably comprises oat fibre comprising betaglucan or barley fibre comprising beta-glucan. Even more preferably the composition according to the present invention comprises oat fibre comprising beta-glucan. In particular the present mixture of NDS preferably comprises oat fibre comprising at least 30 wt% beta-glucan based on total oat fibre, more preferably oat fibre comprising at least 50 wt% beta-glucan based on total oat fibre, even more preferably oat fibre comprising at least 90 wt% beta-glucan based on total oat fibre.

[0031] A sufficient amount of cereal fibre comprising beta-glucan, preferably oat fibre comprising beta-glucan, is advantageous for children, in particular young children, paediatric patients and / or constipated children since it, together with the other NDS and in combination with the mixture of LAPB according to the invention, results in an intestinal microbiota steered towards a microbiota that is adult-like, e.g. intermediate between infant-type and adult, which is beneficial for young children. It was found that this effect was strongly dependent on the presence of cereal fibre comprising beta-glucan, preferably oat fibre comprising beta-glucan.

[0032] Suitable sources of cereal fibre comprising at least 30 wt% beta-glucan based on total fibre of the cereal are PromOat from Lantmannen and Oatwell, formerly known as SweOat, from Givaudan. Preferably the cereal fibre comprising beta-glucan comprises at least 40 wt% beta-glucan based on total cereal fibre, more preferably at least 50 wt% beta-glucan based on total fibre of the cereal. Preferably the cereal fibre comprising at least 30 wt% beta-glucan is oat fibre. Preferably the oat fibre comprising beta-glucan comprises at least 40 wt% beta-glucan based on total oat fibre, more preferably at least 50 wt% betaglucan based on total oat fibre.

[0033] Soy fibre:

[0034] The present mix of NDS comprises soy fibre. Seeds of soy bean (Glycine max) are rich in fibre and can contain 9-13 wt% fibre. The fibre in soy bean is a mixture of soluble and insoluble fibre. Depending on the exact extraction method and the extracted material (whole beans, cotyledons, hulls, okara) the ratio between soluble and insoluble fibres may vary. Whole soy beans contain about 22 to 26 wt% soluble fibre based on total fibre, and about 74-78 wt% insoluble fibre based on total fibre.

[0035] The non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) of soy bean are classified into three main groups, namely cellulose, non-cellulosic polymers and pectic polysaccharides. Both the soluble and insoluble fibre (except cellulose) of soy is fermentable by microbiota and are suitable. In addition to the fibre soy bean contains small amounts of indigestible oligosaccharides. It is preferred that the soy fibre isolated from soy bean does not contain, or contains only very small amounts of the indigestible oligosaccharides. The insoluble fibres of soy are mainly cellulose and hemicellulose, and hemicellulose has as building blocks mainly galactose, arabinose, galacturonic acid, rhamnose and some xylose and glucose. Of the hemicelluloses two types of units are present in the main backbone: a short-chain homogalacturonan (degree of polymerisation, DP, 4-10) and a long-chain rhamnogalacturonan (repeating units 15, 28, 100). The side chains are composed of galactans (DP, 43-47) branched with fucose and arabinose residues, and arabinans.

[0036] Soluble soy polysaccharide is typically extracted from soybean cotyledons The soluble fibres of soy bean are mainly pectin. Soybean NSP are composed mainly of a mixture of pectic polysaccharides, such as rhamnogalacturonans (types I and II), arabinogalactan I and xylogalacturonan.

[0037] Soy fibres are commercially available, for example Soyafibe-S-Ca100 (Fuji Oil Co, Ltd) Soyafibe S-DN and Soya-Up M 800 also known as additive E 426 (as defined in EU 231 / 2012). Nakamura et al, 2001 Biosci Biotech Biochem 65 2249-2258 give further information. Another suitable source is Fibrim2000 (Du Pont / Danisco Essex Food Ingredients), Fl-1 Soy fibre (Fibred Group), and SANACEL Fl-1 Soy Fiber (CFF).

[0038] A sufficient amount of soy fibre is advantageous for children, in particular young children, paediatric patients and / or constipated children since it favourably stimulates the intestinal bifidobacteria and / or the intestinal production of the organic acids. The use of soy fibre, together with the other NDS and in combination with the mixture of LAPB according to the invention, results in an intestinal microbiota steered towards a microbiota that is adult-like, e.g. intermediate between infant-type and adult, which is beneficial for young children.

[0039] Resistant starch

[0040] The NDS mixture according to the present invention comprises resistant starch (RS). Resistant starch is a non-digestible alpha-glucan. Resistant starches are non-digestible carbohydrate polymers made up of at least 80% glucose monomers, based on total monomers of the resistant starch, preferably at least 85%, which are bound together for more than 50% via alpha- 1 ,4 glycosidic linkages, and which are resistant to digestion and absorption in the human stomach and small intestine and enter the colon intact.

[0041] Resistant starch can be determined according to the method described by McCleary and Monaghan (2002) J AOAC Int 85, 665-675. Resistant starch includes starch that is physically inaccessible to the digestive enzymes in the stomach and small intestine, starch that is inaccessible to enzymes due to its conformation, e.g. its natural granular form, such as uncooked potato starch, green banana flour and high amylase corn, starch that is formed when starch-containing foods are cooked and cooled (retrograded starch), and starch that is chemically modified to resist digestion.

[0042] Preferably the NDS mixture comprises resistant starch in the form of high amylose starch, preferably from corn, cassava, or potato, more preferably from corn. The resistant starch is preferably of type III. Type III RS refers to retrograded starch, also known as RS3. Resistant starch type III is formed when starch-containing foods are cooked and cooled. Retrogradation refers to the collective processes of dissolved starch becoming less soluble after being heated and dissolved in water and then cooled. More preferably the resistant starch is a retrograded, resistant high amylose starch, preferably from corn. A suitable source of resistant starch is Novelose® 330 (Ingredion). Novelose 330 is a retrograded RS3 generated from the hydrolysed products of corn starch. This commercial product contains 28-38 wt% RS3, so about 32 wt% RS. It is composed of a low molecular fraction with a chain length of alpa-1 ,4-D- glucans of between 10 and 40 glucose units and a larger amount of higher-molecular-weight polymers. RS type III is a non-digestible polysaccharide, is fermentable by the intestinal microbiota, and not soluble. The remainder of the ingredient is not a non-digestible saccharide. Other sources of RS3 are C*Actistar form Cargill and Neo-amylose from YMC.

[0043] A sufficient amount of resistant starch is advantageous for children, in particular toddlers, in particular paediatric patients and / or constipated children since it advantageously results in a fermentation at the more distal part of the colon. The use of resistant starch advantageously results in the formation of intestinal propionate and butyrate. The use of resistant starch together with the other NDS and in combination with the mixture of LAPB according to the invention, results in an intestinal microbiota steered towards a microbiota that is adult-like, e.g. intermediate between infant-type and adult, which is beneficial for young children. A too high amount of resistant starch may result in unfavourable product characteristics such as a high viscosity and precipitations though.

[0044] NDS mixtures

[0045] Preferably the combination of the mixture of NDS and mixture of LAPB or the nutritional composition comprising combination of the mixture of NDS and mixture of LAPB does not comprise other sources that provide non-digestible saccharides than the mixture of four NDS according to the invention. Preferably the NDS in the combination of NDS and LAPB according to the invention consists of at least 90 wt%, more preferably 95 wt% even more preferably at least 98 wt% of the four NDS according to the invention. Preferably the NDS in the nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB according to the invention consists of at least 90 wt%, more preferably 95 wt% even more preferably at least 98 wt% of the four NDS according to the invention. Preferably the NDS in the combination of NDS and LAPB or in the nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB consists of the mixture of the four NDS according to the invention. Having a substantial amount of other NDS present besides the four NDS of the present invention may not result in the same effects on the microbiota composition, activity, and butyrate formation in young children.

[0046] Preferably the NDS mixture comprises arabinoxylan : cereal fibre comprising beta-glucan : soy fibre : resistant starch in a weight ratio of 4-6 : 1-3 : 1-3 : 0.5-2.5, preferably 4.5-5.5 : 1 .5-2.5 : 1 .5-2.5: 0.5- 1 .5, more preferably about 5 : 2 : 2 : 1 .

[0047] Preferably, the NDS mixture according to the invention comprises, based on weight, 40-60 % arabinoxylan, 10-30 % cereal fibre comprising beta-glucan, 10-30 % soy fibre, and 5-15 % resistant starch. More preferably the NDS mixture comprises, based on weight, 45-55 % arabinoxylan, 15-25 % cereal fibre comprising beta-glucan, 15-25 % soy fibre, and 7-13 % resistant starch. Even more preferably the NDS mixture comprises, based on weight, about 50 % arabinoxylan, about 20 % cereal fibre comprising beta-glucan, about 20 % soy fibre and about 10 % resistant starch. These ratios of these four NDS ensures a further improved balance and / or interaction between the different types of NDS and their specific beneficial effect, such as intestinal propionate and butyrate formation, and development of the microbiota composition and metabolic activity from infant-type to adult-type.

[0048] Lactic acid producing bacteria.

[0049] The combination of NDS and LAPB of the present invention contains at least two types of lactic acid producing bacteria (LAPB). In a first aspect according to the invention, one of the LABP is a Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum and one is a Lactobacillus selected from the group consisting of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus paracasei and Lactobacillus plantarum. Preferably the Lactobacillus in combination with the B. longum subsp. longum is L. acidophilus. In another embodiment, preferably the Lactobacillus in combination with the B. longum subsp. longum is L. helveticus. In another embodiment, preferably the Lactobacillus in combination with the B. longum subsp. longum is L. plantarum.

[0050] In a second aspect according to the invention, one of the LABP is a Lactobacillus acidophilus and one is a Bifidobacterium selected from the group consisting of B. longum subsp. longum, B. breve and B. bifidum. Preferably the Bifidobacterium in combination with the L. acidophilus is B. longum subsp. longum, even more preferably a combination of B. longum subsp. longum and B. breve.

[0051] The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 2 x 104to 3 x 1013colony forming units (cfu) LAPB per gram dry weight of the combination, preferably 2 x 105to 3 x 1012cfu, more preferably 2 x 106to 3 x 1 O10cfu most preferably from 3 x 106to 3 x 109cfu LAPB per gram dry weight.

[0052] The present nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 2 x 103to 3 x 1012colony forming units (cfu) LAPB per gram dry weight, preferably 2 x 104to 3 x 1011cfu, more preferably 2 x 105to 3 x 109cfu most preferably from 3 x 105to 3 x 108cfu LAPB per gram dry weight of nutritional composition.

[0053] Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum

[0054] In the first aspect according to the invention the LAPB comprises a strain of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum. A syntrophic effect was observed in combinations comprising the mixtures of four NDS of the present invention and mixtures of LAPB comprising B. longum subsp. longum. In particular the formation of butyrate was stimulated in LAPB mixtures where a Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum was present. This result was not, or to a lesser extent, observed when Bifidobacteria belonging to B. breve or B. bifidum were used.

[0055] Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum (B. longum) is a Gram- positive, anaerobic, branched rod-shaped bacterium. The B. longum subsp. longum according to the present invention preferably has at least 95 % identity of the 16S rRNA sequence when compared to the type strain of B. longum subsp. longum ATCC 15707, more preferably at least 97% identity (Stackebrandt & Goebel, 1994, Int. J. Syst. Bacteriol. 44:846-849). Preferred B. longum subsp. longum strains are those isolated from the faeces of healthy human milk-fed infants or of toddlers. Typically, these are commercially available from producers of lactic acid bacteria, but they can also be directly isolated from faeces, identified, characterised and produced. B. longum subsp. longum can utilize both human milk oligosaccharides and plant polysaccharides. Srutkova, et al, 2011 ,. Journal of Microbiological Methods. 87 (1): 10-16. doi:10.1016 / j.mimet .2011.06.014. PMID 21756944 describe a method to identify B. longum subsp. longum.

[0056] Suitable B. longum subsp. longum strains are available. Examples of suitable B. longum subsp. \ongum strains are B. longum BB356 (Morinaga). BB536 originated from the gut of a healthy breastfed infant in 1969 and is commercially applied in many products such as probiotic supplements. BB536 is deposited at ATCC as BAA-999. Other strains are BB-46 (Chr Hansen), or R0175 (Lallemand).

[0057] The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains at least 104cfu B. longum subsp. longum per gram dry weight of the combination of NDS and LAPB, more preferably at least 105cfu, even more preferably at least 106cfu per gram dry weight. The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 104to 1013colony forming units (cfu) B. longum subsp. longum per gram dry weight of the combination of NDS and LAPB, preferably 105to 1012cfu, more preferably 106to 101° cfu most preferably from 106to 109cfu per gram dry weight.

[0058] B. longum subsp. infantis is not preferred, since this is a species that is found particularly in human breastfed infants, but to a lesser extent in healthy toddlers and adults. Preferably the mixture of LAPB does not comprise B. longum subsp. infantis.

[0059] Lactobacilli

[0060] In the first aspect according to the invention the LAPB comprises a strain of Lactobacillus. It was found that the combination of B. longum subsp. longum and a Lactobacillus selected from L. acidophilus, L. helveticus, L. paracasei or L. plantarum together with the NDS mixture of the present invention resulted in higher propionate and butyrate production. From additional experiments (combining the LAPB with NDS) it was found that it is this combination of the two LAPB that results in higher propionate and higher butyrate.

[0061] The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains at least 104cfu of a Lactobacillus selected from L. acidophilus, L. helveticus, L. paracasei or L. plantarum per gram dry weight of the combination of NDS and LAPB, more preferably at least 105cfu, even more preferably at least 106cfu per gram dry weight. The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 104to 2.1013colony forming units (cfu) Lactobacillus selected from L. acidophilus, L. helveticus, L. paracasei or L. plantarum per gram dry weight of the combination of NDS and LAPB, preferably 105to 2.1012cfu, more preferably 106to 2.101° cfu most preferably from 106to 2.109cfu per gram dry weight.

[0062] Lactobacillus acidophilus

[0063] In the first aspect according to the invention the LAPB preferably comprises a strain of L. acidophilus. This species was special in that it enhanced the formation of propionate and butyrate the most when the NDS mixture of the present invention and a B. longum subsp. longum was fermented by the microbiota of young children. B. longum subsp. longum together with L. acidophilus in combination with the NDS of the present invention resulted in an even higher SCFA and especially butyrate production than in combination with one of the other bifidobacteria.

[0064] L. acidophilus is a Gram-positive, anaerobic, branched rod-shaped bacterium. It is a homofermentative microorganism, producing lactate via the EMP pathway. The L. acidophilus according to the present invention preferably has at least 95 % identity with the 16S rRNA sequence when compared to the type strain of L. acidophilus ATCC 4326, more preferably at least 97% identity (Stackebrandt & Goebel, 1994, Int. J. Syst. Bacteriol. 44:846-849). Preferred L. acidophilus strains are those isolated from the human gastro-intestinal tract. Typically, these are commercially available from producers of lactic acid bacteria, but they can also be directly isolated from faeces, identified, characterised and produced.

[0065] Suitable L. acidophilus strains are available. Examples of suitable L. acidophilus strains are L. acidophilus LA-5, DD1 (Chr Hansen). NCFM (ATCC 700396) Rhodia Inc. Especially preferred is to use L. acidophilus NCFM (ATCC strain designation SD5221). This strain is known to have health effects in children. Also other strains of L. acidophilus can be used instead.

[0066] The present combination of a mixture of NDS and a mixture of LAPB preferably contains at least 104cfu L. acidophilus per gram dry weight, more preferably at least 105cfu, even more preferably at least 106cfu L. acidophilus per gram dry weight. The present combination preferably contains not more than 1013cfu L. acidophilus per gram dry weight of the combination of a mixture of NDS and mixture of LAPB, more preferably not more than 1012cfu, even more preferably not more than 1 O10cfu L. acidophilus per gram dry weight. The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 104to 1013colony forming units (cfu) L. acidophilus per gram dry weight, preferably 105to 1012cfu, more preferably 106to 1 O10cfu most preferably from 106to 109cfu L. acidophilus per gram dry weight.

[0067] Lactobacillus helveticus

[0068] In the first aspect according to the invention the LAPB preferably comprises a strain of L. helveticus. This species enhanced the formation of butyrate when the NDS mixture of the present invention and a B. longum subsp. longum was fermented by the microbiota of young children. B. longum subsp. longum together with L. helveticus in combination with the NDS of the present invention resulted in an higher SCFA and especially butyrate production than in combination with one of the other bifidobacteria.

[0069] L. helveticus is a Gram- positive, anaerobic, branched rod-shaped bacterium. It is a homofermentative microorganism, producing lactate via the EMP pathway. The L. helveticus according to the present invention preferably has at least 95 % identity with the 16S rRNA sequence when compared to the type strain of L. helveticus ATCC 15009, more preferably at least 97% identity (Stackebrandt & Goebel, 1994, Int. J. Syst. Bacteriol. 44:846-849). L. helveticus strains are typically commercially available from producers of lactic acid bacteria, but they can also be directly isolated from fermented products, identified, characterised and produced.

[0070] Suitable L. helveticus strains are available. An example of a suitable L. helveticus strain is R0052 (Lallemand) CNCM 1-1722 or SBT2171 (Morinaga). The present combination of a mixture of NDS and a mixture of LAPB preferably contains at least 104cfu L. helveticus per gram dry weight, more preferably at least 105cfu, even more preferably at least 106cfu L. helveticus per gram dry weight. The present combination preferably contains not more than 1013cfu L. helveticus per gram dry weight of the combination of a mixture of NDS and mixture of LAPB, more preferably not more than 1012cfu, even more preferably not more than 1 O10cfu L. helveticus per gram dry weight. The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 104to 1013colony forming units (cfu) L. helveticus per gram dry weight, preferably 105to 1012cfu, more preferably 106to 1 O10cfu most preferably from 106to 109cfu L. helveticus per gram dry weight.

[0071] Lactobacillus paracasei

[0072] In the first aspect according to the invention the LAPB preferably comprises a strain of L. paracasei. This species, recently renamed as Lactocaseibacillus paracasei, enhanced the formation of butyrate when the NDS mixture of the present invention and a B. longum subsp. longum was fermented by the microbiota of young children. B. longum subsp. longum together with L. paracasei in combination with the NDS of the present invention resulted in an higher SCFA and especially butyrate production than in combination with one of the other bifidobacteria.

[0073] L. paracasei is a Gram- positive, anaerobic, branched rod-shaped bacterium. It is a homofermentative microorganism, producing lactate via the EMP pathway. The L. paracasei according to the present invention preferably has at least 95 % identity with the 16S rRNA sequence when compared to the type strain of L. paracasei ATCC 25302, more preferably at least 97% identity (Stackebrandt & Goebel, 1994, Int. J. Syst. Bacteriol. 44:846-849). L. paracasei strains are typically commercially available from producers of lactic acid bacteria, but they can also be directly isolated from the human gastrointestinal tract or fermented products, identified, characterised and produced. Suitable L. paracasei strains are available. An example of a suitable L. paracasei strain is Lactobacillus paracasei Lpp1 , Danone, CNCM 1-1518 or L. paracasei 431 (Novonesis).

[0074] The present combination of a mixture of NDS and a mixture of LAPB preferably contains at least 104cfu L. paracasei per gram dry weight, more preferably at least 105cfu, even more preferably at least 106cfu L. paracasei per gram dry weight. The present combination preferably contains not more than 1013cfu L. paracasei per gram dry weight of the combination of a mixture of NDS and mixture of LAPB, more preferably not more than 1012cfu, even more preferably not more than 1 O10cfu L. paracasei per gram dry weight. The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 104to 1013colony forming units (cfu) L. paracasei per gram dry weight, preferably 105to 1012cfu, more preferably 106to 1 O10cfu most preferably from 106to 109cfu L. paracasei per gram dry weight.

[0075] Lactobacillus plantarum

[0076] In the first aspect according to the invention the LAPB preferably comprises a strain of L. plantarum. This species enhanced the formation of butyrate and to some extent of propionate when the NDS mixture of the present invention and a B. longum subsp. longum was fermented by the microbiota of young children. B. longum subsp. longum together with L. plantarum in combination with the NDS of the present invention resulted in an higher SCFA and especially propionate and butyrate production than in combination with one of the other bifidobacteria.

[0077] Lactobacillus, plantarum (recently renamed as Lactoplantibacillus plantarum) is a Gram positive, bacilli shaped bacterium. L. plantarum cells are rods with rounded ends, straight, generally 0.9-1 .2 pm wide and 3-8 pm long, occurring singly, in pairs or in short chains. The L. plantarum according to the present invention preferably has at least 95 % identity with the 16S rRNA sequence when compared to the type strain of L. plantarum ATCC 4356, more preferably at least 97% identity (Stackebrandt & Goebel, 1994, Int. J. Syst. Bacteriol. 44:846-849). L. plantarum strains are typically commercially available from producers of lactic acid bacteria, but they can also be directly isolated from the human gastrointestinal tract or fermented products, identified, characterised and produced.

[0078] Suitable L. plantarum strains are available. An example of a suitable L. plantarum strain is L. plantarum 299v (Probi) DSM9843 (can also be referred to as Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 299v) or PPLP-217 (Novonesis).

[0079] The present combination of a mixture of NDS and a mixture of LAPB preferably contains at least 104cfu L. plantarum per gram dry weight, more preferably at least 105cfu, even more preferably at least 106cfu L. plantarum per gram dry weight. The present combination preferably contains not more than 1013cfu L. plantarum per gram dry weight of the combination of a mixture of NDS and mixture of LAPB, more preferably not more than 1012cfu, even more preferably not more than 1 O10cfu L. plantarum per gram dry weight. The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 104to 1013colony forming units (cfu) L. plantarum per gram dry weight, preferably 105to 1012cfu, more preferably 106to 1 O10cfu most preferably from 106to 109cfu L. plantarum per gram dry weight.

[0080] Lactobacillus acidophilus

[0081] In the second aspect according to the invention the LAPB comprises a strain of Lactobacilus acidophilus. A syntrophic effect was observed in combinations comprising the mixtures of four NDS of the present invention and mixtures of LAPB comprising L. acidophilus. In particular the formation of butyrate was stimulated in LAPB mixtures where a Bifidobacterium and L. acidophilus was present. This result was not, or to a lesser extent, observed when Lactobacilli belonging to L. helveticus, L. plantarum or L. paracasei were used. The effect was observed with several different strains of L. acidophilus.

[0082] L. acidophilus is a Gram-positive, anaerobic, branched rod-shaped bacterium. The L. acidophilus according to the present invention preferably has at least 95 % identity with the 16S rRNA sequence when compared to the type strain of L. acidophilus ATCC 4326, more preferably at least 97% identity (Stackebrandt & Goebel, 1994, Int. J. Syst. Bacteriol. 44:846-849). Preferred L. acidophilus strains are those isolated from the human gastro-intestinal tract. Typically, these are commercially available from producers of lactic acid bacteria, but they can also be directly isolated from faeces, identified, characterised and produced. Suitable L. acidophilus strains are available. Examples of suitable L. acidophilus strains are L. acidophilus LA-5, DD1 (Chr Hansen). NCFM (ATCC 700396) Rhodia Inc. Especially preferred is to use L. acidophilus NCFM (ATCC strain designation SD5221). This strain is known to have health effects in children.

[0083] The present combination of a mixture of NDS and a mixture of LAPB preferably contains at least 104cfu L. acidophilus per gram dry weight, more preferably at least 105cfu, even more preferably at least 106cfu L. acidophilus per gram dry weight. The present combination preferably contains not more than 1013cfu L. acidophilus per gram dry weight of the combination of a mixture of NDS and mixture of LAPB, more preferably not more than 1012cfu, even more preferably not more than 1 O10cfu L. acidophilus per gram dry weight. The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 104to 1013colony forming units (cfu) L. acidophilus per gram dry weight, preferably 105to 1012cfu, more preferably 106to 1 O10cfu most preferably from 106to 109cfu L. acidophilus per gram dry weight.

[0084] Bifidobacteria

[0085] In the second aspect according to the invention LAPB comprises a strain of Bifidobacterium. It was found that the combination of L. acidophilus and a Bifidobacterium selected from B. longum subsp. longum, B. bifidum or B. breve together with the NDS mixture of the present invention resulted in higher butyrate production. From additional experiments (combining the LAPB with NDS) it was found that it is this combination of the two LAPB that results in higher butyrate. The presence of a Bifidobacterium strongly promoted the growth of the L. acidophilus.

[0086] B. longum subsp. infantis is not preferred, since this is a species that is found particularly in human breastfed infants, but to a lesser extent in healthy toddlers and adults. Preferably the mixture of LAPB does not comprise B. longum subsp. infantis.

[0087] Preferably B. longum subsp. longum is present together with L. acidophilus. More preferably a combination of B. longum subsp. longum and B. breve is present together with L. acidophilus. B. longum subsp. longum together with L. acidophilus in combination with the NDS of the present invention resulted in an even higher SCFA and especially butyrate production than in combination with one of the other bifidobacteria. Additional experiments testing the combination of B. longum subsp. longum and B. breve were indicative of an even further improvement in metabolite formation when a mixture of L. acidophilus, B. longum subsp. longum and B. breve was present. The effects were not strain specific.

[0088] The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains at least 104cfu of a Bifidobacterium selected from B. longum subsp. longum, B. breve or B. bifidum per gram dry weight of the combination of NDS and LAPB, more preferably at least 105cfu, even more preferably at least 106cfu per gram dry weight. The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 104to 2.1013colony forming units (cfu) Bifidobacterium selected from B. longum subsp. longum, B. breve or B. bifidum per gram dry weight of the combination of NDS and LAPB, preferably 105to 2.1012cfu, more preferably 106to 2.1 O10cfu most preferably from 106to 2.109cfu per gram dry weight. Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum

[0089] In the second aspect according to the invention the LAPB preferably comprises a strain of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum. This subspecies was special in that it enhanced the formation of butyrate the most when the NDS mixture of the present invention and a L. acidophilus was fermented by the microbiota of young children.

[0090] Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum (B. longum) is a Gram- positive, anaerobic, branched rod-shaped bacterium. The B. longum subsp. longum according to the present invention preferably has at least 95 % identity of the 16S rRNA sequence when compared to the type strain of B. longum subsp. longum ATCC 15707, more preferably at least 97% identity (Stackebrandt & Goebel, 1994, Int. J. Syst. Bacteriol. 44:846-849). Preferred B. longum subsp. longum strains are those isolated from the faeces of healthy human milk-fed infants or of toddlers. Typically, these are commercially available from producers of lactic acid bacteria, but they can also be directly isolated from faeces, identified, characterised and produced. B. longum subsp. longum can utilize both human milk oligosaccharides and plant polysaccharides. Srutkova, et al, 2011,. Journal of Microbiological Methods. 87 (1): 10- 16. doi:10.1016 / j. mimet .2011.06.014. PMID 21756944 describe a method to identify B. longum supsp longum.

[0091] Suitable B. longum subsp. longum strains are available. Examples of suitable B. longum subsp. \ongum strains are B. longum BB356 (Mori nag a). BB536 originated from the gut of a healthy breastfed infant in 1969 and is commercially applied in many products such as probiotic supplements. BB536 is deposited at ATCC as BAA-999. Other strains are BB-46 (Chr Hansen), or R0175 (Lallemand),

[0092] The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains at least 104cfu B. longum subsp. longum per gram dry weight of the combination of NDS and LAPB, more preferably at least 105cfu, even more preferably at least 106cfu per gram dry weight. The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 104to 1013colony forming units (cfu) B. longum subsp. longum per gram dry weight of the combination of NDS and LAPB, preferably 105to 1012cfu, more preferably 106to 101° cfu most preferably from 106to 109cfu per gram dry weight.

[0093] Bifidobacterium breve

[0094] In the second aspect according to the invention the LAPB preferably comprises a strain of Bifidobacterium breve. A syntrophic effect was observed with L. acidophilus and the NDS mixture of the invention, especially with respect to butyrate formation. Especially a combination of B. longum subsp. longum and B. breve with L. acidophilus was able to form the highest amounts of butyrate in combination with the NDS mixture of the present invention.

[0095] Bifidobacterium breve is a Gram- positive, anaerobic, branched rod-shaped bacterium. The B. breve according to the present invention preferably has at least 95 % identity of the 16 S rRNA sequence when compared to the type-strain of B. breve ATCC 15700, more preferably at least 97% identity (Stackebrandt & Goebel, 1994, Int. J. Syst. Bacteriol. 44:846-849). Preferred B. breve strains are those isolated from the faeces of healthy human milk-fed infants. Typically, these are commercially available from producers of lactic acid bacteria, but they can also be directly isolated from faeces, identified, characterised and produced. Suitable B. breve strains are available. Examples of suitable B. breve strains are 8. breve UCC2003 (NCIMB 8807), C50, JCM7017, NCFB2258 and NCIMB8815, JCM7019, LMG13208, NCFB2257, NCIMB11815, ATCC 15700, M-16V (BCCM / LMG 23729, Morinaga).

[0096] Especially preferred is to use B. breve C50. B. breve C50 was deposited under deposit number CNCM 1-2219, under the Budapest Treaty at the Collection Nationale de Cultures de Microorganism, at Institut Pasteur, 25 Rue du Dr Roux, Paris, France on 31 May 1999 by Compagnie Gervais Danone. This strain was published in WO 2001 / 001785 and in US patent 7,410,653. Another preferred Bifidobacterium breve to use is Bifidobacterium breve CNCM 1-5177. B. breve CNCM 1-5177 was deposited under the Budapest Treaty at the Collection Nationale de Cultures de Microorganism, at Institut Pasteur, 25 Rue du Dr Roux, Paris, France on 9 March 2017 by Compagnie Gervais Danone. Especially preferred is the B. breve M-16V strain (Morinaga).

[0097] The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains at least 104cfu B. breve per gram dry weight of the combination of NDS and LAPB, more preferably at least 105cfu, even more preferably at least 106cfu B. breve Per gram dry weight. The present combination preferably contains 104to 1013colony forming units (cfu) B. breve per gram dry weight of the combination of NDS and LAPB, preferably 105to 1012cfu, more preferably 106to 101° cfu most preferably from 106to 109cfu B. breve per gram dry weight.

[0098] The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains at least 104cfu B. breve and at least 104cfu B. longum subsp. longum per gram dry weight of the combination of NDS and LAPB more preferably at least 105cfu B. breve and at least 105cfu B. longum subsp. longum, even more preferably at least 106cfu B. breve and at least 106cfu B. longum subsp. longum.

[0099] The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 104to 1013cfu B. breve and 104to 1013cfu B. longum subsp. longum per gram dry weight of the combination of NDS and LAPB, preferably 105to 1012cfu of each of both, more preferably 106to 101° cfu of each of both most preferably from 106to 109cfu of each of both B. breve and B. longum subsp. longum per gram dry weight.

[0100] Bifidobacterium bifidum

[0101] In the second aspect according to the invention the LAPB preferably comprises a strain of Bifidobacterium bifidum. This species combined with L. acidophilus showed an enhanced butyrate production. Bifidobacterium bifidum is a Gram-positive, anaerobic, branched rod-shaped bacterium. The B. bifidum according to the present invention preferably has at least 95 % identity of the 16 S rRNA sequence when compared to the type strain of B. bifidum ATCC 29521 , more preferably at least 97% identity (Stackebrandt & Goebel, 1994, Int. J. Syst. Bacteriol. 44:846-849). Preferred B. bifidum strains are those isolated from the faeces of healthy human milk-fed infants. Typically, these are commercially available from producers of lactic acid bacteria, but they can also be directly isolated from faeces, identified, characterised and produced. Examples of suitable and available B. bifidum strains are B. bifidum R0071 from Lallemand or B. bifidum Bb-06 (Dupont Dansico). Most preferably, the B. bifidum is B. bifidum CNCM 1-4319. This strain was deposited under Budapest treaty at the Collection National de Cultures de Microorganisms (CNCM) at Institut Pasteur, 25 Rue de Dr Roux, 75724 Paris by Compagnie Gervais Danone on 19 May 2010. B. bifidum CNCM 1-4319 is a strain originally isolated from the infant microbiota of a healthy baby born in the Netherlands. This strain is especially preferred because it has the ability to protect the intestinal epithelial barrier measured by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) in an in vitro model (WO 2011 / 148358) and in an animal model it was shown to restore gut integrity and functionality from stress-induced and inflammatory damage (Tondereau at al., Microorganisms, 2020, 8, 1313). This is a characteristic that is especially beneficial under conditions when the intestinal microbiota is in disbalance. B. bifidum CNCM 1-4319 has also been disclosed in US 9,402,872.

[0102] The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains at least 104cfu B. bifidum per gram dry weight, more preferably at least 105cfu, even more preferably 106cfu B. bifidum per gram dry weight. The present combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 104to 1013colony forming units (cfu) B. bifidum per gram dry weight, preferably 105to 1012cfu, more preferably 106to 1010cfu, most preferably 106to 109cfu B. bifidum per gram dry weight.

[0103] Preferably the L. acidophilus and at least one Bifidobacterium selected from the group of B. longum subsp. longum, B. bifidum, and B. breve, are the sole LAPB present in the synbiotic combination with the mixture of NDS and in the nutritional composition comprising the combination of the mixture of NDS and LAPB. The presence of additional LAPB may disturb the balance and hence butyrate formation.

[0104] Nutritional composition

[0105] In one embodiment the present invention also concerns a nutritional composition comprising the specific combination of NDS and LAPB. In one embodiment the present nutritional composition is a liquid. In one embodiment, preferably the present nutritional composition is a ready-to-feed composition. Preferably the composition is administered orally. Preferably the nutritional composition of the present invention is in a powdered form, which can be reconstituted with water to form a liquid. In the context of the present invention the terms ‘powder’ and ‘dry’ are used interchangeably.

[0106] In the context of the present invention, the nutritional composition according to the invention can also be named a young child formula. In order to meet the caloric requirements of the young child, the nutritional composition according to the invention preferably comprises 45 - 100 kcal per 100 ml, more preferably 50 - 75 kcal per 100 ml, even more preferably 60 -70 kcal 100 ml. This caloric density ensures an optimal ratio between water and calorie consumption and this balance is important for preventing constipation. The amount of calories is the sum of the calories provided by the protein, the lipid, and the digestible carbohydrate and NDS.

[0107] The nutritional composition according to the invention comprises lipid, protein, digestible carbohydrate and non-digestible saccharides (NDS). The lipid preferably provides 20 - 55% of the total calories, the protein preferably provides 5 - 15% of the total calories, the digestible carbohydrate preferably provides 30 - 74% of the total calories and the NDS 1 - 15% of the total calories of the nutritional composition. Preferably nutritional composition according to the invention comprises lipid providing 25 - 50% of the total calories, protein providing 6 - 13% of the total calories, digestible carbohydrate providing 40 - 65% of the total calories and NDS providing 2 - 10% of the total calories of the nutritional composition. More preferably the present nutritional composition comprises lipid providing 30 - 45 % of the total calories, protein providing 7 - 10% of the total calories, digestible carbohydrate providing 45 - 55% of the total calories and NDS providing 3 - 7% of the total calories of the nutritional composition.

[0108] Preferably combination of NDS and LAPB is part of a nutritional composition. When in liquid, ready to drink form, the nutritional composition according to the invention preferably comprises 0.4 - 6.0 g of the present NDS mixture per 100 ml, preferably 0.6 - 5.3 g, more preferably 0.9 - 3.3 g and even more preferably 1.1 - 2.7 g of the present NDS mixture per 100 ml nutritional composition. When in powder form, preferably the nutritional composition according to the invention comprises 3 - 45 g of the present NDS mixture per 100 g dry weight, preferably 4 - 40 g, more preferably 7 - 25 g and even more preferably 8-20 g of the present NDS mixture per 100 g dry weight of the nutritional composition. Based on calories, preferably the nutritional composition according to the invention comprises 0.6 - 9 g of the present NDS mixture per 100 kcal, preferably 0.8 - 8.0 g, more preferably 1 .5 - 7.5 g and even more preferably 1 .4 - 5.0 g of the present NDS mixture per 100 kcal nutritional composition. Such a quantity of NDS promotes the advantageous effects of these NDS in the gastro-intestinal tract yet is suitable for young children and minimizes the risk of unwanted side effects such as bloating, abdominal pain, flatulence and / or a feeling of satiety. The amount of NDS in the nutritional composition can suitably be determined according to McCleary, Anal Bioanal Chem 2007, 389:291-308. This method suitably determines total NDS including resistant starch and non-digestible oligosaccharides. For the purpose of the present invention the caloric density of the NDS is set at 2 kcal per gram.

[0109] Furthermore, the nutritional composition according to the invention preferably comprises 0.13 - 2.7 g beta-galactooligosaccharides per 100 ml, more preferably 0.20 - 2.0 g, even more preferably 0.40 - 1.3 g beta-galactooligosaccharides per 100 ml. Based on dry weight, the nutritional composition according to the invention preferably comprises 1.0 - 20 g beta-galactooligosaccharides per 100 g, more preferably 1.5 - 15 g, even more preferably 3.0 - 10 g beta-galactooligosaccharides per 100 g. Based on calories, the nutritional composition according to the invention preferably comprises 0.2 - 4.0 g beta-galactooligosaccharides per 100 kcal, more preferably 0.3 - 3.0 g, even more preferably 0.6 - 2.0 g beta-galactooligosaccharides per 100 kcal.

[0110] Furthermore, the nutritional composition according to the invention preferably comprises 0.13 - 2.7 g inulin per 100 ml, more preferably 0.2 - 2.0 g, even more preferably 0.40 - 1.3 g inulin per 100 ml. Based on dry weight, the nutritional composition according to the invention preferably comprises 1 .0 - 20 g inulin per 100 g, more preferably 1.5 - 15 g, even more preferably 3.0 - 10 g inulin per 100 g. Based on calories, the nutritional composition according to the invention preferably comprises 0.2 - 4.0 g inulin per 100 kcal, more preferably 0.3 - 3.0 g, even more preferably 0.6 - 2.0 g inulin per 100 kcal. The nutritional composition according to the invention preferably comprises 0.07 - 1 .33 g soy fibre per 100 ml, more preferably 0.09 - 1.00 g, even more preferably 0.20 - 0.67 g soy fibre per 100 ml. Based on dry weight, the nutritional composition according to the invention preferably comprises 0.5 - 10 g soy fibre per 100 g, more preferably 0.7 - 7.5 g, even more preferably 1 .5 - 5 g soy fibre per 100 g. Based on calories, the nutritional composition according to the invention preferably comprises 0.10 - 2.0 g soy fibre per 100 kcal, more preferably 0.14 - 1.5 g, even more preferably 0.30 - 1.0 g soy fibre per 100 kcal.

[0111] Furthermore, the nutritional composition according to the invention preferably comprises 0.01 - 0.27 g resistant starch per 100 ml, more preferably 0.02 - 0.20 g, even more preferably 0.04 - 0.13 g resistant starch per 100 ml. Based on dry weight, the nutritional composition according to the invention preferably comprises 0.10 - 2.0 g resistant starch per 100 g, more preferably 0.14 - 1.5 g, even more preferably 0.30 - 1.0 g resistant starch per 100 g. Based on calories, the nutritional composition according to the invention preferably comprises 0.02 - 0.4 g resistant starch per 100 kcal, more preferably 0.03 - 0.3 g, even more preferably 0.06 - 0.2 g resistant starch per 100 kcal. The resistant starch is preferably type III resistant starch.

[0112] Furthermore, in the first aspect according to the invention the present nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 103to 1012colony forming units (cfu) Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum per gram dry weight, preferably 104to 1011cfu, more preferably 105to 109cfu most preferably from 105to 108cfu Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition.

[0113] In addition to the Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum, the present nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 103to 2.1012colony forming units (cfu) of a Lactobacillus selected from the group consisting of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus paracasei and Lactobacillus plantarum per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB, preferably 104to 2.1011cfu, more preferably 105to 2.109cfu most preferably from 105to 2.108cfu per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition.

[0114] In addition to the Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum, the present nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 103to 1012colony forming units (cfu) Lactobacillus acidophilus per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB, preferably 104to 1011cfu, more preferably 105to 109cfu most preferably from 105to 108cfu per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition.

[0115] In yet another embodiment, in addition to the Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum, the present nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB preferably comprises 103to 1012cfu B. breve and 103to 1012cfu Lactobacillus acidophilus per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition, preferably 104to 1011cfu of each of both, more preferably 105to 109cfu of each of both most preferably from 105to 108cfu of each of both B. breve and Lactobacillus acidophilus per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition. In another embodiment, in addition to the Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum, the present nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB preferably comprises 103to 1012colony forming units (cfu) B. bifidum and 103to 1012cfu Lactobacillus acidophilus per gram dry weight, preferably 104to 1011cfu, more preferably 105to 109cfu, most preferably 105to 108cfu of each of both per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition.

[0116] Furthermore, in the second aspect according to the invention the present nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 103to 1012colony forming units (cfu) L. acidophilus per gram dry weight, preferably 104to 1011cfu, more preferably 105to 109cfu most preferably from 105to 108cfu L. acidophilus per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition.

[0117] In addition to the L. acidophilus, the present nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 103to 2.1012colony forming units (cfu) of a Bifidobacterium selected from B. longum subsp. longum, B. breve, and B.bifidum per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB, preferably 104to 2.1011cfu, more preferably 105to 2.109cfu most preferably from 105to 2.108cfu per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition.

[0118] In addition to the L. acidophilus, the present nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB preferably contains 103to 1012colony forming units (cfu) B. longum subsp. longum per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB, preferably 104to 1011cfu, more preferably 105to 109cfu most preferably from 105to 108cfu per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition.

[0119] In another embodiment, in addition to the L. acidophilus, the present nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB preferably comprises 103to 1012colony forming units (cfu) B. breve per gram dry weight, preferably 104to 1011cfu, more preferably 105to 199cfu most preferably from 105to 108cfu B. breve per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition.

[0120] In yet another embodiment, in addition to the L. acidophilus, the present nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB preferably comprises 103to 1012cfu B. breve and 103to 1012cfu B. longum subsp. longum per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition, preferably 104to 1011cfu of each of both, more preferably 105to 109cfu of each of both most preferably from 105to 108cfu of each of both B. breve and B. longum sp longum per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition. In another embodiment, in addition to the L. acidophilus, the present nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB preferably comprises 103to 1012colony forming units (cfu) B. bifidum per gram dry weight, preferably 104to 1011cfu, more preferably 105to 109cfu, most preferably 105to 108cfu B. bifidum per gram dry weight of the nutritional composition.

[0121] The nutritional composition preferably comprises 1 .3 - 4.7 g lipid per 100 ml, more preferably 1 .9 - 4.0 g per 100 ml, more preferably 2.1 - 3.3 g per 100 ml. Based on dry weight, the nutritional composition preferably comprises 10 - 35 g lipid per 100 g, more preferably 14 - 30 g per 100 g, more preferably 16 - 25 g lipid per 100 g dry weight of the nutritional composition. Based on calories, the nutritional composition preferably comprises 2.0 - 7.0 g lipid per 100 kcal, more preferably 2.8 - 6.0 g per 100 kcal, more preferably 3.2 - 5.0 lipid g per 100 kcal of the nutritional composition. The lipid preferably provides 20 - 55%, more preferably 25 - 50%, more preferably 30 - 45% of the total calories of the present nutritional composition.

[0122] The amount of saturated fatty acids is preferably below 45 wt% based on total lipid more preferably below 25 wt%. The concentration of monounsaturated fatty acids preferably ranges from 30 to 65% based on weight of total fatty acids. The concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids preferably ranges from 15 to 60% based on weight of total fatty acids. Preferably the nutritional composition comprises the n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid linoleic acid (LA) and the n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). LA and ALA are essential fatty acids and important for healthy growth and development of children. Preferably the nutritional composition comprises long chain poly-unsaturated fatty acids (LC- PUFA). LC-PUFA are defined in the present invention as fatty acids or acyl chains with two or more double bonds and a chain length of 20 or more carbon atoms. Preferably the nutritional composition comprises docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and / or eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). These LC-PUFA were found to improve the intestinal barrier function and including DAH and / or EPA, preferably both, preferably works synergistically with the mixture of NDS and combinations of LABP according to the invention. Preferably the amount of LC-PUFA is in the range of 0.3-5 wt%, preferably 0.4-3 wt%, more preferably 0.5-2.5 wt% based on total fatty acids. Preferably the nutritional composition comprises DHA and EPA in an amount of 0.3-5 wt%, preferably 0.4-3 wt%, more preferably 0.5-2.5 wt% based on total fatty acids. Preferably the nutritional composition comprises DHA and EPA in a weight ratio of 1 : (0.1- 1), preferably in a weight ratio of 1 : (0.1-0.7).

[0123] The nutritional composition preferably comprises 0.8 - 2.7 g protein per 100 ml, more preferably 0.9 - 2.1 g per 100 ml, more preferably 1 .1 - 1 .6 g per 100 ml nutritional composition. Based on dry weight, the nutritional composition preferably comprises 6 - 20 g protein per 100 g, more preferably 7 - 16 g per 100 g, more preferably 8 - 12 g protein per 100 g dry weight of the nutritional composition. Based on calories, the nutritional composition preferably comprises 1.2 - 4.0 g protein per 100 kcal, more preferably 1.4 - 3.2 g per 100 kcal, more preferably 1.6 - 2.4 g protein per 100 kcal of the nutritional composition. The protein preferably provides 5 - 15%, more preferably 6 - 13% even more preferably 7 - 10% based on total calories of the composition.

[0124] Protein is to be taken as the sum of proteins, peptides, and free amino acids. The amount of protein can be calculated according to the amount of nitrogen multiplied by 6.25.

[0125] The present nutritional composition preferably comprises casein and / or whey proteins. Preferably the weight ratio casein:whey protein is 0:100 to 90:10, more preferably 20:80 to 90:10, more preferably 40:60 to 80:20.

[0126] The nutritional composition preferably comprises 4.7 - 11 .2 g digestible carbohydrate per 100 ml, more preferably 6.0 - 10.7 g per 100 ml, more preferably 7.3 - 9.3 g per 100 ml nutritional composition. Based on dry weight, the nutritional composition preferably comprises 35 - 84 g digestible carbohydrate per 100 g, more preferably 45 - 80 g per 100 g, more preferably 55 - 70 g digestible carbohydrate per 100 g dry weight of the nutritional composition. Based on calories, the nutritional composition preferably comprises 7 - 17 g digestible carbohydrate per 100 kcal, more preferably 9 - 16 g per 100 kcal, more preferably 11 - 14 g digestible carbohydrate per 100 kcal of the nutritional composition. The digestible carbohydrate preferably provides 30 - 74%, more preferably 40 - 65%, more preferably 45 - 55 % of the total calories of the present nutritional composition.

[0127] Preferably the composition comprises at least one digestible carbohydrate selected from the group consisting of lactose, maltodextrin, digestible starch, saccharose, glucose, and maltose, more preferably lactose.

[0128] Preferably the nutritional composition comprises vitamins, minerals and trace elements and other micronutrients in recommended daily amounts as known in the art and according to international guidelines. The osmolarity of the present nutritional composition is preferably between 150 and 700 mOsmol / l, more preferably 200 to 400 mOsmol / l. This osmolarity advantageously reduced gastrointestinal stress, results in an optimal balance between water and nutrient uptake, which is beneficial for children suffering from or at risk of constipation.

[0129] Nutritional supplement

[0130] In one embodiment of the present invention the combination of NDS and LAPB is in the form of a supplement. Such a supplement can be packed as such in powder form, or with a suitable carrier such as maltodextrin. The powder supplement can be packed in tins or sachets or the like. Preferably the powder is protected against water and oxygen. The supplement can be added to cow’s milk, water, yoghurt and the like.

[0131] Application

[0132] The synbiotic combination of NDS and LAPB of the present invention, or supplement or nutritional composition comprising this combination, is preferably intended for administration to children from 1 up to and including 12 years of age, more preferably young children from 1 , 2, or 3 years old, or alternatively young children from 1 to up to and including 3 years of age. Preferably the children are healthy.

[0133] In particular, the combination of NDS and LAPB of the present invention, or supplement or nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB mixture according to the present invention is beneficial for young children from 1 year up to and including 12 years of age, more preferably young children of 1 , 2 or 3 years old, that are at risk of or are suffering from constipation, in particular functional constipation. Such young children with or at risk of constipation may especially benefit.

[0134] In particular, the combination of NDS and LAPB of the present invention, or supplement or nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB of the present invention is beneficial for young children from 1 year up to and including 12 years of age, more preferably young children of 1 , 2 or 3 years old, that are or have been treated with antibiotics. Such young children that are or have been treated with antibiotics are at risk of intestinal microbial dysbiosis and may especially benefit. In particular, the combination of NDS and LAPB of the present invention, or supplement or nutritional composition comprising the combination of NDS and LAPB of the present invention is beneficial for young children from 1 year up to and including 12 years of age, more preferably young children of 1 , 2 or 3 years old, that are at risk of or are suffering from allergy, in particular atopic dermatitis. Such young children with allergy or at risk of allergy, in particular atopic dermatitis, may especially benefit.

[0135] In particular, the combination of NDS and LAPB of the present invention, or supplement or nutritional composition comprising the NDS and LAPB mixture of the present invention is beneficial for young children from 1 year up to and including 12 years of age, more preferably young children of 1 , 2 or 3 years old, that are picky eaters. Such young children that are picky eaters, may have a too low fibre intake from the remainder of their diet and may especially benefit.

[0136] It was found that the synbiotic combination of NDS and LAPB of the present invention when fermented by microbiota of young children had an intermediate effect in relation to the profile of metabolites formed and the microbiota established. This was when compared to the metabolite product profile and microbiome of infants and that of an adult. In the present context, an infant has an age of less than 12 months, and an adult has an age of 18 years and above. Unexpectedly, the combination of the NDS mixture with a specific mixture of either B. longum subsp. longum and a Lactobacillus selected from Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus paracasei and Lactobacillus plantarum, or L. acidophilus and a Bifidobacterium selected from B. longum subsp. longum, B. breve or B. bifidum, enhanced the absolute and relative amounts of butyrate formed. Of the LABP, the combination of Lactobacillus acidophilus with B. longum subsp. longum resulted in the highest level of propionate and the highest level of butyrate.

[0137] Therefore, the present synbiotic combination is beneficial for toddlers in promoting a smooth transition from infant type microbiota to adult type microbiota. This transition applies to the composition of the intestinal microbiota as well as the activity of the intestinal microbiota.

[0138] It was found that upon fermentation of the synbiotic combination of the invention the amount of propionate and the amount of butyrate was increased. Butyrate in the intestine increases the gut barrier function. Therefore, the present combination can be used to improve the intestinal barrier function. An improved gut barrier function will reduce the number of infections. Therefore, the synbiotic combination of the present invention is for use in preventing infections.

[0139] Butyrate beneficially modulates visceral sensitivity and intestinal motility, which can help in conditions like constipation. Therefore, this synbiotic combination of the invention will treat or prevent constipation. An enhanced level of intestinal butyrate in young children reduces the occurrence of allergy and / or atopic dermatitis. Therefore, the synbiotic combination of the present invention is for use in treating or preventing allergy and / or atopic dermatitis. Propionate helps regulate immune cells, which can reduce intestinal inflammation and maintain the gut barrier. This is crucial for a toddler's developing digestive system.

[0140] Thus, the synbiotic combination of NDS and LAPB of the present invention, or supplement or nutritional composition comprising this combination is for use in a method of therapy.

[0141] In one embodiment, the method of therapy is preventing or treating an intestinal disorder selected from the group consisting of microbial dysbiosis, constipation, intestinal infections, and diarrhea.

[0142] In another embodiment, the method of therapy is increasing the intestinal barrier function in a subject.

[0143] In another embodiment, the method of therapy is improving intestinal microbiota composition and activity.

[0144] Preferably the use is in a young child from 1 up to and including 12 years of age, more preferably in a young child of 1 , 2, or 3 years old.

[0145] The invention can also be worded as a method for preventing or treating an intestinal disorder selected from the group consisting of microbial dysbiosis, constipation, intestinal infections, and diarrhea in a young child; increasing the intestinal barrier function in a young child, allergy, preferably atopic dermatitis. comprising administering the synbiotic combination of NDS and LAPB of the present invention, or supplement or nutritional composition comprising this combination to the young child.

[0146] Alternatively, the invention can be worded as the use of non-digestible saccharides and lactic acid producing bacteria for the manufacture of a synbiotic composition for preventing or treating an intestinal disorder selected from the group consisting of microbial dysbiosis, constipation, intestinal infections, and diarrhea in a young child; increasing the intestinal barrier function in a young child, allergy, preferably atopic dermatitis, wherein the non-digestible saccharides is a mixture of beta-galactooligosaccharides, inulin, soy fibre and resistant starch and the lactic acid producing bacteria either is a mixture of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum and at least one Lactobacillus selected from the group consisting of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus paracasei and Lactobacillus plantarum or is a mixture of Lactobacillus acidophilus and at least one Bifidobacterium selected from the group consisting of B. breve, B. bifidum, and B. longum subsp. longum.

[0147] The invention can also be worded as a method for improving intestinal microbiota composition and activity in a young child comprising administering the synbiotic combination of NDS and LAPB of the present invention, or supplement or nutritional composition comprising this combination to the young child. The invention can be worded as the use of non-digestible saccharides and lactic acid producing bacteria for the manufacture of a synbiotic composition for improving intestinal microbiota composition and activity in a young child wherein the non-digestible saccharides is a mixture of betagalactooligosaccharides, inulin, soy fibre and resistant starch and the lactic acid producing bacteria either is a mixture of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum and at least one Lactobacillus selected from the group consisting of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus paracasei and Lactobacillus plantarum, or is a mixture of Lactobacillus acidophilus and at least one Bifidobacterium selected from the group consisting of B. breve, B. bifidum, and B. longum subsp. longum.

[0148] The invention also concerns a method for providing nutrition to a young child, comprising administering the synbiotic combination of NDS and LAPB of the present invention, or supplement or nutritional composition comprising this combination to the young child.

[0149] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURE

[0150] Figure 1 shows a principal component analysis (PCA) summarizing the impact on the gut microbial activity tested via the SIFR® technology platform, for fibre mixtures FM1 and FM4, 12 probiotic mixes (circles) and combinations thereof compared to reference products (BM1 / BM2) and a no substrate control (NSC).

[0151] Figure 2 shows the impact on butyrate levels tested via the SIFR® technology platform, for 2 fibre mixtures (FM1 / FM4), 12 probiotic mixes (circles) and combinations thereof compared to a no substrate control (NSC).

[0152] Figure 3 shows the impact on propionate levels tested via the SIFR® technology platform, for 2 fibre mixtures (FM1 / FM4), 12 probiotic mixes (circles) and combinations thereof compared to a no substrate control (NSC).

[0153] Figure 4 shows a principal component analysis (PCA) summarizing the impact on microbial composition (at OTU level) as tested via the SIFR® technology for fibre mixtures FM1 and FM4, 12 probiotic mixes (circles) and combinations thereof and a no substrate control (NSC). The ellipses represent the 95% confidence intervals for each of the fibre groups.

[0154] EXAMPLES

[0155] Materials and Methods

[0156] Different mixtures of non-digestible saccharides and twelve mixtures of lactic acid producing bacteria and their combinations were tested.

[0157] NDS mixture FM4 was designed and adapted to the specific dietary needs of young children, taking into account cereals, grains, vegetables and fruit as main dietary sources of NDS and is a mixture of the prior art. NDS mixture. FM4 is a NDS mixture adapted to be in transition to adults and the mixture is based on a standard dietary intake of adults with a normal healthy diet. NDS mixture FM1 of betagalactooligosaccharides (scGOS) and long chain fructooligosaccharides (IcFOS) and five different human milk oligosaccharides was developed as a mixture for infants.. Table 1 shows the non-digestible saccharides composition of the tested mixtures. Table 1 : Non-digestible saccharides mixtures (weight % based on total NDS) aSource of scGOS is Vivinal® GOS (FrieslandCampina, Domo-Borculo NL).bSource of IcFOS is Raftiline HP (Beneo-Orafti).

[0158] 02’-Fucosyllactose (2’-FL) and 5 HMOS are obtained from Chr Hansen. 5 HMOS contained 2’-FL, 3-FL, 6’-SL, 3’-SL and LNT in the weight ratio: 52 : 13 : 5 : 4 : 26.dSource of oat fibre for FM4 is PromOat (Lantmannen) - contains about 29 w% beta-glucan based on dry weight and about 96 wt% based on total fibre.eSource of resistant starch is Novelose®330 (Ingredion UK Ltd.).fSource of arabinoxylan PureFiber AX is used (supplier PureFiber). This is corn derived glutenfree and had about 89 wt% fibre and 79 wt% arabinoxylan.

[0159] 9Source of pectin rich soy fibre is Soyafibre-S-Ca100® (Fuji Oil Co, Ltd).

[0160] The following strains of LAPB were used:

[0161] Lactobacillus acidophilus, strain NCFM (Dupont / IFF) - also known as ATCC 700396.

[0162] Lactobacillus plantarum, 299v (Probi) DSM9843 (can also be referred to as Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 299v)

[0163] Lactobacillus paracasei Lpp1 , Danone, CNCM 1-1518

[0164] Lactobacillus helveticus R0052 (Lallemand) CNCM 1-1722

[0165] Bifidobacterium longum subspecies longum, BB536 (Morinaga) ATCC BAA-999

[0166] Bifidobacterium bifidum, (Danone) CNCM 1-4319

[0167] Bifidobacterium breve, BbC50, (Danone) CNCM 1-2219

[0168] All strains are commercially available or deposited under the Budapest treaty.

[0169] The LAPB were used in dry form and added to an end concentration of 2.5 x 108CFU / 5 mL, i.e. 5 x 107CFU / mL. Table 2 shows the combinations that were tested.

[0170] Table 2: List of strains, fibre mixtures and their combinations tested.

[0171]

[0172] Faecal slurry fermentations were performed with samples from six healthy toddlers (1 to 3 years of age).

[0173] No breastfeeding or antibiotics were used in the 90 days before sample collection. 1

[0174] Non-digestible saccharides were tested at a dose equivalent of 5 g / d and the lactic acid producing bacteria were dosed at a final concentration of 2 x 107cfu / ml.

[0175] Fermentation was performed using the SIFR technology. The method is disclosed in Van den Abbeele et al. (2023) Front. Microbiol., Volume 14 | https: / / doi.org / 10.3389 / fmicb.2023.1 131662, the SIFR technology has been validated by studying the impact of three structurally different carbohydrates (inulin, 2’-fucosyllactose and resistant dextrin). In short, individual bioreactors were processed in parallel in a bioreactor management device (Cryptobiotix, Ghent, Belgium). Each bioreactor contained 5 ml of nutritional medium-faecal inoculum blend supplemented with the mix of NDS and LAPB to be tested, then sealed individually, before being rendered anaerobic. After preparation, bioreactors were incubated under continuous agitation (140 rpm) at 37°C for 24 h (MaxQ 6,000, Thermo Scientific, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Merelbeke, Belgium). Samples were taken at t= 24 h and stored at -80°C.

[0176] Analysis of SCFA, BCFA, pH, lactate:

[0177] SCFA (acetate, propionate, butyrate and valerate) and branched chain fatty acids (bCFA; sum of isobutyrate, isocaproate and isovalerate) were determined via GC with flame ionization detection. (Trace 1300, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Merelbeke, Belgium), upon diethyl ether extraction as previously described (De Weirdt et al., 2010). pH was measured using an electrode (Hannah Instruments Edge HI2002, Temse, Belgium). Lactate was measured with an enzymatic method and quantified via spectrophotometry according to manufacturer’s instructions (EnzytecTM, R-Biopharm, Darmstadt, Germany).

[0178] Microbial composition 16S rRNA gene profiling:

[0179] Upon DNA extraction, library preparation and sequencing were performed on an Illumina MiSeq platform with v3 chemistry. The 16S rRNA gene V3-V4 hypervariable regions were amplified using primers 341 F (50 -CCT ACG GGN GGC WGC AG-30) and 785Rmod (50 -GAC TAC HVG GGT ATC TAA KCC-30 ). Results were analysed at different taxonomic levels (phylum, family, and OTU level). For taxonomic analysis, the proportional data derived from sequencing (%) were corrected for the total amount of cells present in each sample (detected via flow cytometry), allowing to obtain more representative insights in the impact of interventions on the gut microbiota.

[0180] Data analysis:

[0181] For exploratory evaluation of the obtained results, a series of principal component analyses (PCA) was performed. The two principal components with the largest eigenvalues were plotted. Statistics were performed as follows:

[0182] For the statistical evaluation of the treatment effects on fundamental fermentation parameters, cell counts, microbial diversity (4 indices) and microbial composition (phylum level) across 6 different donors, a repeated measures ANOVA analysis was performed (~ based on paired t-testing, thus accounting for fact that values are compared between samples of a given donor). The statistical significance of the potential treatment effects was determined via Benjamini-Hochberg post hoc testing. The latter involves that a correction for multiple comparisons was implemented where p-values were adjusted by multiplying them with the total amount of comparisons divided by the rank of each original p-value (across all p- values). In practice, this means that while the largest obtained p-value remained uncorrected (i.e, multiplied 1), the lowest p-value was multiplied with the number of conditions assessed, thus strongly decreasing the chance of type 1 errors (i.e. false positives). Statistical differences between treatments and the blanc are indicated with * (0.1 < p adjusted < 0.2), ** (0.05 < p adjusted < 0.1) or *** (p adjusted < 0.05). Further, differences between a synbiotic and the respective fibre (FM1 / FM3 / FM4) are indicated with “$ / $$ / $$$”, while differences with the respective LAPB (1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12) are indicated with “& / && / &&&”.

[0183] In addition, to estimate the independent effect of the treatment groups (i.e. NDS mixes and LAPB), linear mixed models, an extension of simple linear models allowing both fixed and random effects to compensate for non-independence in the data (i.e. values are compared between samples of a given donor) were used. Here, significance is indicated by * (0.05 < p), ** (p < 0.01) or *** (p < 0.001)).

[0184] For the statistical evaluation of the treatment effects on microbial composition (family and OTU level), the Benjamini-Hochberg correction was applied within each comparison, given the large number of features analysed.

[0185] Results are shown in examples example 1 and 2.

[0186] Example 1: Effect of different synbiotic combinations on the metabolites formed by the intestinal microbiota of young children

[0187] A principal component analysis (PCA) based on fundamental fermentation parameters, provided comprehensive insight in overall treatment effects since the first two components explained 97.1 % of variation of the dataset. All parameters (acetate, propionate, butyrate, gas), but not pH and bCFA, correlated positively with PC1 (~ X-axis), indicating that samples with enhanced microbial activity positioned to the right. There was a marked differential clustering of 0 h and 24 h samples. As the incubation progressed, samples moved from the left bottom to the upper and right upper side of the PCA, suggesting enhanced production of acetate, propionate, butyrate, bCFA and gasses.

[0188] PCAs were made to visualize product-specific effects, averaged across all donors, thus allowing to zoom in on consistent product effects. The following treatment effects were observed.

[0189] The blanc (No Substrate Control - NSC), and samples of the treatment with LAPB without NDS were positioned closest to 0 h samples along PC1 , suggesting that particularly the NDS mixtures and synbiotic combinations thereof boosted microbial metabolite production compared to the blanc or LAPB alone. Mixtures comprising NDS mixture FM1 and FM4 tended to be positioned as separate clusters, suggesting product-specific treatment effects.

[0190] While blanc samples were related with higher pH and bCFA levels, suggesting a higher proteolytic activity, the NDS clusters were positioned to the right relating with NDS-specific increase of acetate, propionate and butyrate: FM1 was positioned most to the right suggesting strongest overall effects. FM1 was positioned most downwards relating with butyrate. FM4 was positioned most upwards relating with propionate. The position of FM4 in the 2-dimensional space indicated to be towards adult-like.

[0191] Looking at the NDS mixtures without LAPB, FM1 resulted in highest SCFA production and FM1 in the lowest pH (highest pH reduction). On the other hand, FM4 resulted in lowest total SCFA and highest pH. Overall, NDS administration markedly boosted acetate, propionate and butyrate and reduced bCFA in a NDS-specific fashion.

[0192] Subsequently the effect of specific combinations of the NDS mixtures with LAPB was examined.

[0193] It was found that the addition of various LAPB further impacted SCFA formation, mostly stimulating propionate and butyrate, in a specific synbiotic combination-dependent way. Lactate accumulation was not observed, except for low levels in FM1 combinations with some of the LAPB (data not shown). Lactate is formed by the LAPB, but this is converted by the lactate utilizing bacteria in the microbiota into propionate and butyrate.

[0194] When looking for combinations suitable for young children that especially steers towards adult-like microbiota involving formation of propionate while also being butyrogenic, the focus was on selecting the best synbiotic combinations containing the NDS mixture FM4.

[0195] A positive effect on SCFA stimulation and in particular propionate and butyrate stimulation was observed for the LAPB mixtures that contained B. longum subsp. longum when compared to the other Bifidobacterium species. A remarkable butyrogenic effect was observed in FM4 in combinations with B. longum subsp. longum and a Lactobacillus selected from L. acidophilus, L. helveticus, L. paracasei and L. plantarum. Likewise, a remarkable butyrogenic effect was observed in FM4 in combinations with Lactobacillus acidophilus and a Bifidobacterium selected from B. breve, B. bifidum, and B. longum subsp. longum. In these combinations acetate was lowered, suggesting that a cross feeding from acetate to butyrate took place.

[0196] The highest propionate and butyrate formation was unexpectedly found with the combination of FM4 with B. longum subsp. longum and L. acidophilus. Table 3 lists the average butyrate production for the combinations of the NDS mixtures with LAPB. It shows that for FM4, the combination with either B. longum subsp. longum and any of L. acidophilus, L. helveticus, L. paracasei and L. plantarum, or L. acidophilus and any of from B. breve, B. bifidum, and B. longum subsp. longum, resulted in an unexpected remarkable increase compared to the FM4 mixture. Table 4 lists the average propionate production for the combinations of the NDS mixtures with LAPB. It shows that for FM4, the combination with either B. longum subsp. longum and any of L. acidophilus, L. helveticus, L. paracasei and L. plantarum, or L. acidophilus and any of from B. breve, B. bifidum, and B. longum subsp. longum, resulted in an unexpected remarkable increase compared to the FM4 mixture.

[0197] Such consistent stimulation of propionate and butyrate is highly remarkable as propionate and butyrate cannot be produced by the LAPB themselves, but is produced by indigenous gut microbes, which presence is highly variable among human subjects. Table 3: Increase of average butyrate production Table 4: Increase of average propionate production These results are indicative that the synbiotic combination of beta-galactooligosaccharides, inulin, soy fibre and resistant starch, either with Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum and a Lactobacillus selected from L. acidophilus, L. helveticus, L. paracasei and L. plantarum, in particular L. acidophilus, or with L. acidophilus and a Bifidobacterium selected from B. breve, B. bifidum, and B. longum subsp. longum, in particular and B. longum subsp. longum, is most suitable for young children to improve the activity of the microbiome and the transition from an infant to an adult type microbiome. In particular, the observed effects on elevated butyrate production are indicative for increased intestinal health, such as improved gut barrier function.

[0198] Example 2: Effect of different synbiotic combinations on the intestinal microbiota composition of young children: Faecal fermentation of the NDS mixture of the invention results in a microbiota intermediate between infant and adult.

[0199] Effect of the NDS

[0200] As can be expected, all tested mixtures containing NDS resulted in higher intestinal bacteria growth. While the LAPB alone generally also increased bacterial cell density, the extent of this effect was milder compared to the NDS mixtures and the synbiotic combinations. For the NDS mixtures, total bacterial cells were highest with FM4, lowest with FM1 .

[0201] A PCA was made based on the average results across donors at 24 h. The PCA was made at highest phylogenetic resolution (OTU level), with OTUs being narrowed down to those that were significantly (FDR = 0.20) or consistently affected by any of the treatments. The PCA was based on standardized values (AVG = 0; SD = 1) so that each OTU equally contributed to the PCA (independent of their abundance), allowing to relate more OTUs to treatments. PCAs were made across all samples.

[0202] FM1 positioned to the left. Positioning to the left related with, amongst others, a series of Bifidobacterium subsp. (B. pseudocatenulatum, B. longum, B. breve and B. bifidum). Further, these treatments related with several butyrate-producing species such as Anaerobutyricum hallii and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii. Several early (non-Bifidobacterium) colonizers of the infant gut such as Ruminococcus gnavus and Clostridium ramosum also positioned to the left.

[0203] FM4-containing products positioned to the right upper side relating with a series of Bacteroides spp. (8. vulgatus / dorei and 8. xylanisolvens), potent propionate producers. Further, FM4 specifically related with Blautia spp.. (8. obeum / wexlerae and B. fusiformis), and, amongst others, Eisenbergiella tayi, Ruminococcus bromii (keystone species for starch degradation), Waltera intestinalis and Hominilimicola fabiformis (keystone species for xanthan degradation), altogether revealing the effect of FM4 on the toddlers’ microbiota, resulting in a microbiota that is much more adult like.

[0204] This effect was observed on phylum level as well as on lower phylogenetic levels. The three key phyla across toddlers were Actinobacteria / Bacteroidota / Firmicutes with lower levels of Fusobacteria / Proteobacteria / Verrucomicrobiota being detected. No significant treatment effects were noted for the less abundant phyla so the focus is on effects on Actinobacteria, Bacteroidota and Firmicutes. All NDS-containing products significantly increased the phylum to which Bifidobacteriaceae belong, i.e. Actinobacteriota.

[0205] The test products also significantly increased Firmicutes. Among the NDS, the increase was most marked for FM4. The effect of FM4 on the microbiota that was observed steers towards the transition of microbiota from that of an infant and that of an adult.

[0206] Specific synbiotic interactions

[0207] Within the specific NDS mixtures different effects of the combination with LAPB were found. Significant synbiotic effects included the stimulation of Firmicutes for test products containing L. acidophilus and a Bifidobacterium along with FM4.

[0208] Altogether, marked NDS and LAPB-specific effects on microbial metabolite production and microbial composition were noted. The finding that the administration of a single bacterium can alter the overall metabolic output of a gut microbial community consisting of 100’s of species was highly remarkable (e.g. +24% butyrate production when combining L. acidophilus + B. longum subsp. longum with FM4 compared to FM4 alone).

[0209] Example 3: Nutritional composition for young children

[0210] Nutritional composition in powder form. After reconstitution of 14.8 g powder with water to 100 ml to a ready to drink formula the composition comprises per 100 ml:

[0211] - 67 kcal

[0212] 1 .0 g protein (milk protein)

[0213] 2.79 g lipids (mainly vegetable lipids)

[0214] 8.66 g digestible carbohydrates (mainly lactose)

[0215] 1 .60 g mixture of non-digestible saccharides, comprising based on total non-digestible saccharides o 38.wt% galactooligosaccharides (source VivinalGOS) o 38 wt% inulin (source RaftilinHP) o 20 wt% soy fibre (source Fibrim2000) o 4 wt% g resistant starch (source Novelose 330)

[0216] About 108cfu Lactobacillus acidophilus (NCFM)

[0217] About 108cfu Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum Bb536

[0218] About 108cfu Bifidobacterium breve M16-V Vitamins, minerals as known in the art.

[0219] Example 4: Nutritional composition

[0220] Nutritional composition in powder form, when after reconstitution with water, 12.4 g powder, reconstituted with water to 100 ml ready to drink composition comprises per 100 ml:

[0221] 59 kcal

[0222] 1 .4 g protein (milk protein) / 1 OOkcal

[0223] 3.1 g lipids (vegetable lipids) / 100 kcal 5.4 g digestible carbohydrates (mainly lactose) / 100 kcal

[0224] 1 .76 g mixture of non-digestible saccharides / 100 kcal (2 g / 100 ml) o 0.67 g galactooligosaccharides (source VivinalGOS) o 0.67 g Ic FOS (source Raftiline ST) o 0.35 g oat fibre rich in beta-glucan (source PromOat) o 0.07 g resistant starch (source C*Actistar), Cargill)

[0225] About 108cfu Lactobacillus acidophilus (NCFM)

[0226] About 108cfu Bifidobacterium longum subsp. \ongum (BAA-999)

[0227] Supplemented with vitamin A, B2, B12, D3, C, calcium, iron, zinc and iodine

[0228] Example 5: Nutritional composition

[0229] Nutritional composition in powder form, when after reconstitution with water, 12.4 g powder, reconstituted with water to 100 ml ready to drink composition comprises per 100 ml:

[0230] 59 kcal

[0231] 1 .4 g protein (milk protein) / 1 OOkcal

[0232] 3.1 g lipids (vegetable lipids) / 100 kcal

[0233] 5.4 g digestible carbohydrates (mainly lactose) / 100 kcal

[0234] 1 .76 g mixture of non-digestible saccharides / 100 kcal (2 g / 100 ml) o 0.67 g galactooligosaccharides (source VivinalGOS) o 0.67 g Ic FOS (source Raftiline ST) o 0.35 g soy fibre (source Soyafibre-S-Ca100® (Fuji Oil Co, Ltd) o 0.07 g resistant starch (source C*Actistar), Cargill)

[0235] About 108cfu Lactobacillus helveticus R0052 (Lallemand)

[0236] About 108cfu Bifidobacterium longum subsp. \ongum (BAA-999)

[0237] Supplemented with vitamin A, B2, B12, D3, C, calcium, iron, zinc and iodine.

[0238] Nutritional composition in powder form, when after reconstitution with water, 12.4 g powder, reconstituted with water to 100 ml ready to drink composition comprises per 100 ml:

[0239] 59 kcal

[0240] 1 .4 g protein (milk protein) / 1 OOkcal

[0241] 3.1 g lipids (vegetable lipids) / 100 kcal

[0242] 5.4 g digestible carbohydrates (mainly lactose) / 100 kcal

[0243] 1 .76 g mixture of non-digestible saccharides / 100 kcal (2 g / 100 ml) o 0.67 g galactooligosaccharides (source VivinalGOS) o 0.67 g Ic FOS (source Raftiline ST) o 0.35 g soy fibre (source Soyafibre-S-Ca100® (Fuji Oil Co, Ltd) o 0.07 g resistant starch (source C*Actistar), Cargill)

[0244] About 108cfu Lactobacillus plantarum 299v (Probi)

[0245] About 108cfu Bifidobacterium longum subsp. \ongum (BAA-999) Supplemented with vitamin A, B2, B12, D3, C, calcium, iron, zinc and iodine.

[0246] Example 6: Nutritional composition

[0247] A packed powder with on the package instructions to reconstitute 14.4 g of the powder with 90 ml of water to form a ready to drink formula. After reconstitution the drink has per 100 ml the following composition per 100 ml:

[0248] - 67 kcal

[0249] 2.7 g fat comprising, based on fatty acids, 0.3 wt% EPA wt% and 0.6 wt% DHA (mix of vegetable oils and fish oil)

[0250] 1 .3 g protein (casein and whey protein from cow’s milk)

[0251] 8.4 g digestible carbohydrates (mainly lactose)

[0252] 2.0 g non-digestible oligosaccharides per 100 ml: with beta-galactooligosaccharides I inulin I resistant starch I soy fibre in wt / wt ratio of about 38 / 38 / 4 / 20 wt / wt minerals, trace elements, vitamins and other micro-nutrients as known and in line with regulations.

[0253] About 107cfu Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM,

[0254] About 108cfu Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum Bb536

[0255] About 108cfu B. bifidum R0071

[0256] The formulation of such young child formula is known to the skilled person. The product is labelled to be for young children with an age of 1 to 3 years As a source of beta-galactooligosaccharides Vivinal® GOS is used (FrieslandCampina, Domo-Borculo NL), as a source of inulin Orafti® HP (Beneo-Orafti Orey) Beneo BE) is used, as a source of resistant starch Novelose®330 (Ingredion UK Ltd.) is used, and as a source of soy fibre Soyafibre-S-Ca100® (Fuji Oil Co, Ltd) is used.

[0257] Example 7: Nutritional composition

[0258] A packed powder with on the package instructions to reconstitute 14.4 g of the powder with 90 ml of water to form a ready to drink formula. After reconstitution the drink has per 100 ml the following composition per 100 ml:

[0259] - 67 kcal

[0260] 2.7 g fat (mix of vegetable oils and fish oil)

[0261] 1 .3 g protein (casein and whey protein from cow’s milk)

[0262] 8.4 g digestible carbohydrates (mainly lactose)

[0263] 2.0 g non-digestible oligosaccharides per 100 ml: with beta-galactooligosaccharides I inulin I resistant starch I oat fibre high in beta-glucan in wt / wt ratio of about 38 / 38 / 4 / 20 wt / wt minerals, trace elements, vitamins and other micro-nutrients as known and in line with regulations. About 107cfu Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM, About 108cfu B. breve Bb C50

[0264] About 108cfu B. bifidum R0071

[0265] The formulation of such young child formula is known to the skilled person. The product is labelled to be for young children with an age of 1 to 3 years As a source of beta-galactooligosaccharides Vivinal® GOS is used (FrieslandCampina, Domo-Borculo NL), as a source of inulin Orafti® HP (Beneo-Orafti Orey) Beneo BE) is used, as a source of resistant starch Novelose®330 (Ingredion UK Ltd.) is used, and as a source of oat fibre comprising beta-glucan PromOat is used.

[0266] Example 8 Supplement to be added to milk, yoghurt, porridge and the like.

[0267] Sachet comprising per pack:

[0268] 4 g fibre: 1 g galactooligosaccharides (VivinalGOS powder), 1 g inulin (Raftiline HP), 1 g resistant starch (Novelose330), 1 g soy fibre (Fibrim2000) and about 109cfu of each L. acidophilus La5 and B. longum subsp. longum BAA999. Maltodextrin to make total content of 10 grams.

Claims

CLAIMS1 A combination of a mixture of non-digestible saccharides and a mixture of lactic acid producing bacteria comprising- as non-digestible saccharides a mixture of arabinoxylan, cereal fibre comprising beta-glucan, soy fibre and resistant starch, and as lactic acid producing bacteria- either a mixture of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum and at least one Lactobacillus selected from the group consisting of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus paracasei and Lactobacillus plantarum.- or a mixture of Lactobacillus acidophilus and at least one Bifidobacterium selected from the group consisting of B. breve, B. bifidum, and B. longum subsp. longum.2 The combination according to claim 1 , wherein the mixture of lactic acid producing bacteria is a mixture of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum and Lactobacillus acidophilus.3 The combination according to claim 2, wherein the mixture of lactic acid producing bacteria further comprises B. breve.4 The combination according to claim 1 , wherein the mixture of lactic acid producing bacteria is a mixture of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum and Lactobacillus helveticus.5 The combination according to claim 1 , wherein the mixture of lactic acid producing bacteria is a mixture of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum and Lactobacillus plantarum.6 The combination according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cereal fibre comprising beta-glucan is cereal fibre comprising at least 30 wt% beta-glucan based on total cereal fibre.7 The combination according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cereal fibre comprising beta-glucan is provided as oat fibre, preferably oat fibre comprising at least 30 wt% beta-glucan based on total oat fibre.8 The combination according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mixture of non- digestible saccharides comprises arabinoxylan : cereal fibre comprising beta-glucan : soy fibre : resistant starch in a weight ratio of 4-6 : 1-3 : 1-3 : 0.5-2.5, preferably 4.5-5.5 : 1.5-2.5 : 1 .5-2.5: 0.5-1 .5, more preferably about 5 : 2 : 2 : 1 .9 A supplement comprising the combination of a mixture of non-digestible saccharides and a mixture of lactic acid producing bacteria according to any one of claims 1-8.10 A nutritional composition comprising digestible carbohydrates, lipids and proteins and the combination of a mixture of non-digestible saccharides and a mixture of lactic acid producing bacteria according to any one of claims 1-8.11 The nutritional composition according to claim 10 comprising 3 to 45 g of the mixture of non- digestible saccharides based on 100 g dry weight of the total composition.12 The nutritional composition according to claim 10 or 11 , that- either comprises at least 103cfu per g dry weight Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum and at least 103cfu per g dry weight Lactobacillus selected from the group consisting of L. acidophilus, L. helveticus, L. paracasei and L. plantarum,- or comprises at least 103cfu per g dry weight L. acidophilus and at least 103cfu per g dry weight Bifidobacterium selected from the group consisting of B. breve, B. bifidum, and B. longum subsp. longum.13 The nutritional composition according to any one of claims 10-12 which is a young child formula.14 The nutritional composition according to any one of claims 10-12 which is for use in providing nutrition to a young child, wherein the young child is treated with or has been treated with antibiotics, is at risk of or suffering from atopic dermatitis, or is a picky eater, preferably is treated with or has been treated with antibiotics.15 The combination or nutritional composition according to any one of claims 1 -13 for use in preventing or treating intestinal disorders selected from the group consisting of microbial dysbiosis, constipation, intestinal infections, and diarrhea.16 The combination or nutritional composition according to any one of claims 1 -13 for use in preventing or treating intestinal inflammation and / or increasing the intestinal barrier function in a subject.17 The combination or nutritional composition according to any one of claims 1 -13 for use improving intestinal microbiota composition and activity.

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