Using an in vitro colonic digestion model, we explored the prebiotic potential of dietary fibre concentrates (DFCs) derived from artichoke, red pepper, cucumber, and carrot byproducts. In vitro colonic digestions were carried out for up to 48 hours to simulate colonic digestion. Gut microbiota were assessed at 24 and 48 hours using quantitative PCR targeting key microbial taxa, including Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Clostridium, Bifidobacterium, Enterococcus, Lactobacillus, Bacteroidaceae, and Enterobacteriaceae. DNA was extracted using the QIAamp Fast DNA Stool Mini Kit and quantified using a NanoDrop spectrophotometer. Microbial abundance was normalized to total Eubacteria and calculated using the 2^ÐDelta-Delta Ct method. In parallel, Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs) productions (acetic, propionic, and butyric acids) were assed at 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, and 48 hours using gas chromatography coupled with flame ionization. Total SCFA concentrations and SCFA profiles were calculated to evaluate microbial metabolic activity in response to the different DFCs. Additionally, pH values were also recorded over time, using a pH meter.

DFC: Dietary Fibre Concentrates SCFAs: Short Chain Catty Acids