Xylooligosaccharide (XOS) vs. Fructooligosaccharide (FOS)

Thank you for your question.

Based on the information available, Xylooligosaccharide (XOS) and Fructooligosaccharide (FOS) are distinct chemical compounds and therefore have different INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) names.

• Fructooligosaccharide (FOS): This is an oligosaccharide primarily composed of fructose units. Its INCI name is Fructooligosaccharides.
• Xylooligosaccharide (XOS): This is an oligosaccharide primarily composed of xylose units. It has its own specific INCI name, which is not Fructooligosaccharides.

While both are types of oligosaccharides and function as prebiotics, their structural differences mean they are classified and named separately in the INCI system.

In our product database search, we found Fructooligosaccharide (FOS, Short Chain, Non-Digestible) (Product ID 8866), which aligns with the description of FOS made of fructose units and its benefits as a non-digestible fiber supporting gut health.

However, a direct product match for Xylooligosaccharide was not found in this search.

Therefore, if you have encountered information suggesting Xylooligosaccharide has the INCI name Fructooligosaccharide, it is likely a misunderstanding. These two substances are different in structure and INCI naming.