Product Introduction
Stachyose Tetrahydrate (CAS No. 10094-58-3) is a naturally occurring tetrasaccharide (four-sugar oligosaccharide) and one of the most potent prebiotic dietary fibers available on the global nutraceutical market.
Originally isolated from the seeds of Stachys sieboldii (Chinese Artichoke / Crosne), Stachyose is also naturally present in numerous legumes including soybeans, white beans, lentils, peas, and chickpeas. As a prebiotic, Stachyose selectively stimulates the growth and activity of beneficial gut microorganisms — particularly Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species — while resisting digestion by human digestive enzymes in the small intestine, making it a true bifidogenic and prebiotic functional ingredient.
At Xi’an Taima Biological Co., Ltd., we produce high-purity Stachyose Tetrahydrate through advanced extraction and purification technologies that ensure exceptional quality, consistency, and safety. Our product is certified ISO 9001, KOSHER, and HALAL, and is available in multiple grades for dietary supplement, infant nutrition, functional food, and pharmaceutical applications.
Product Identification
| Product Name | Stachyose Tetrahydrate |
| Synonym | Stachyose, Lupeose, Manneotetrose, D-Stachyose, Stachyose 4-hydrate |
| CAS Number | 10094-58-3 |
| CAS (Anhydrous form) | 470-55-3 |
| Molecular Formula | C24H42O21 · 4H2O |
| Molecular Weight | 738.59 g/mol (tetrahydrate); 666.58 g/mol (anhydrous) |
| IUPAC Name | O-α-D-Galactopyranosyl-(1→6)-O-α-D-galactopyranosyl-(1→6)-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→2)-β-D-fructofuranoside |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Taste | Mildly sweet, approximately 28% the sweetness of sucrose |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Source | Extracted from soybeans, Chinese artichoke (Stachys sieboldii) seeds, legumes |
| Type | Prebiotic tetrasaccharide / Bifidogenic oligosaccharide |
| Grades Available | Food Grade, Pharmaceutical Grade, Infant Nutrition Grade, Research Grade |
Applications
- Prebiotic Capsules & Tablets: Stand-alone prebiotic supplements for gut health
- Probiotic + Prebiotic (Synbiotic) Combinations: Stachyose paired with Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains for synergistic gut health benefits
- Digestive Health Powders: Prebiotic fiber blends for mixing into beverages
- Fiber Supplements: Daily fiber intake support for digestive regularity
- Immune Support Formulas: Gut-immunity axis products targeting immune modulation
- Elderly Health Supplements: Targeting age-related decline in Bifidobacterium populations
- Colon Health: Prebiotic support for colorectal wellness
FAQ
Q1: What is Stachyose Tetrahydrate and why is it called a “tetrahydrate”?
Stachyose Tetrahydrate (CAS 10094-58-3) is the crystalline hydrated form of Stachyose, a naturally occurring tetrasaccharide found in soybeans and other legumes. The “tetrahydrate” designation means that four molecules of water are incorporated into the crystal structure of the compound. This is its naturally occurring and most stable crystalline form. The anhydrous (water-free) form has CAS number 470-55-3. Both forms are biologically equivalent in terms of prebiotic activity.
Q2: How does Stachyose work as a prebiotic?
Stachyose passes through the stomach and small intestine undigested because humans lack the α-galactosidase enzyme needed to break down its glycosidic bonds. When it reaches the large intestine (colon), it is selectively fermented by beneficial bacteria — particularly Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species — which use it as a preferred carbon and energy source. This selective fermentation rapidly increases populations of beneficial bacteria, produces health-promoting short-chain fatty acids (butyrate, propionate, acetate), lowers colonic pH, and inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria.
Q3: What is the recommended daily dosage of Stachyose?
Typical recommended dosages vary by application and target population: For adults (dietary supplements): 3–10g per day, divided into 2–3 doses taken with meals or beverages. For infants (formula supplementation): 0.5–1.0g per 100mL of formula, contributing to a total oligosaccharide content of 0.6–0.8g/100mL. For functional foods: 1–3g per serving. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing is recommended to minimize potential digestive discomfort (bloating, flatulence) during the initial adaptation period.
Q4: Can Stachyose cause any side effects?
Stachyose is generally very well tolerated at recommended dosages. However, as with all fermentable dietary fibers, some individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort, bloating, or increased flatulence during the first 1–2 weeks of use. These effects typically subside as the gut microbiome adapts to the increased prebiotic intake. Starting with a smaller dose (1–2g/day) and gradually increasing over 2–4 weeks is recommended for sensitive individuals.
Q5: What is the difference between Stachyose, Raffinose, and Inulin?
Stachyose, Raffinose, and Inulin are all prebiotic dietary fibers, but they differ in structure and activity: Stachyose is a tetrasaccharide (4 sugars) from the raffinose family, highly selective for Bifidobacterium, found in legumes. Raffinose is a trisaccharide (3 sugars), also from legumes, less selective than Stachyose, often co-occurring with Stachyose in soy. Inulin is a long-chain polysaccharide from chicory root, less selective, broader fermentation profile. For applications requiring highly selective Bifidobacterium stimulation (infant formula, synbiotics, elderly health), Stachyose is often the preferred choice.
Q6: Is Stachyose suitable for vegan and allergen-sensitive consumers?
Yes. Stachyose is 100% plant-derived (from soybeans or Chinese artichoke seeds) and is suitable for vegan and vegetarian consumers. Our product is KOSHER and HALAL certified. However, please note that Stachyose derived from soybeans may be a concern for individuals with soy allergies. For allergen-sensitive applications, we recommend our Stachyose products derived from non-soy sources (Chinese artichoke). Please contact us to confirm the raw material source for specific batches.
