ADM study shows postbiotic supplement reduces blood sugar in dogs, advancing pet health innovation

USA – A clinical trial by global nutrition leader ADM has found that its heat-treated postbiotic supplement, PRIOME® MH, significantly supports metabolic health in dogs, particularly by reducing post-meal blood sugar levels. 

The results could reshape approaches to pet nutrition, especially in managing obesity and related health concerns.

The randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involved 45 healthy adult dogs.

Over several weeks, researchers evaluated the effects of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CECT 8145, ADM’s proprietary strain, administered in both probiotic and postbiotic forms. 

Each dog received either 5 billion CFU of the live probiotic, the same dose of its heat-treated postbiotic version, or a placebo alongside a regular kibble diet.

The trial consisted of two distinct phases: first, a weight-gain phase during which dogs consumed 200% of their daily energy needs, followed by a weight-loss phase with caloric intake adjusted to support optimal body weight. 

Throughout both stages, researchers tracked changes in blood glucose, body composition, hormone levels, and liver health indicators.

The standout finding came during the weight-loss phase. Dogs supplemented with the postbiotic version of PRIOME MH exhibited a significantly lower postprandial blood glucose response, meaning their blood sugar levels rose less dramatically after eating, compared to placebo-fed dogs. 

This suggests a valuable new tool for managing blood sugar in overweight or obese pets.

“These results mark an important step in advancing our understanding of the potential for postbiotics in metabolic health for pets, a health area that historically has been underserved by biotic ingredients,” said Sophie Nixon, Ph.D., Head of R&D Clinical Research for Pet & Animal Wellbeing at ADM, who led the trial.

Additional improvements were seen in liver function. During the weight gain phase, dogs receiving the postbiotic supplement had reduced levels of gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), a biochemical marker commonly elevated in obese dogs, compared to those in the placebo group. 

The study also examined gastrointestinal hormones, such as GLP-1 and glucagon, which play key roles in regulating appetite and metabolism, with varying responses observed between male and female dogs.

Postbiotics vs probiotics

The study’s implications extend beyond efficacy. Unlike live probiotics, postbiotics are inanimate, meaning they retain their beneficial effects even after exposure to high heat, such as during extrusion or baking processes typical in commercial pet food manufacturing. This makes them a practical and reliable option for pet food formulations.

“While postbiotics have long been recognised for their role in gut health, postbiotics like our strain PRIOME MH are emerging as innovative tools to support metabolic function and overall well-being in companion animals,” said Peter Jüsten, ADM’s Global Vice President, R&D Health & Wellness. 

“These findings add to a growing body of research showing that postbiotics can have targeted physiological effects.”

PRIOME MH has already shown positive impacts on gut health in previous ADM-sponsored studies, including enhanced short-chain fatty acid production and beneficial microbiome shifts.

This latest research strengthens its credentials as a multifunctional ingredient for pet wellness.

With 55% of U.S. pet owners reportedly purchasing biotics annually based on professional recommendations, ADM sees rising interest in science-backed functional pet nutrition. 

The company has confirmed that further clinical studies are underway to expand understanding of postbiotics’ role in metabolic and overall health.

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