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Subchronic toxicity study in rats fed gum karaya
Summary
This study found that karaya gum, a dietary fiber, increased fecal bulk in rats at all tested doses. The highest dose showed a slight decrease in weight gain and food efficiency, particularly in females, but was deemed safe.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Gastroenterology
- Food Science
Background:
- Karaya gum is a natural polysaccharide used as a food additive and laxative.
- Understanding its safety profile and physiological effects is crucial for its application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the subchronic toxicity and physiological effects of dietary karaya gum in rats.
- To determine the no-untoward-effect level (NOEL) of karaya gum.
Main Methods:
- Rats of both sexes were fed diets containing 0%, 0.2%, 1%, or 5% karaya gum for 13 weeks.
- Parameters monitored included fecal bulk, body weight, food consumption, food-conversion efficiency, and water intake.
Main Results:
- Karaya gum administration consistently increased fecal bulk across all treated groups.
- A dose-dependent decrease in weight gain and food-conversion efficiency was observed at the highest dose (5%), primarily in female rats.
- Increased water intake was noted in males at 1% and 5% and in females at 5%.
Conclusions:
- The no-untoward-effect level (NOEL) for dietary karaya gum was determined to be 5% (w/w), equivalent to approximately 4 g/kg body weight/day.
- Karaya gum demonstrates a favorable safety profile for subchronic oral exposure in rats, with beneficial effects on fecal output.