News & Events

15/12/25

The FIBRE-MATCH project, launched in September 2024, is tackling one of the most prevalent nutrition challenges in developed countries: the fibre gap. Adequate dietary fibre intake is essential for health and prevention of chronic diseases, yet most Europeans consume far less than recommended. One major barrier is the digestive discomfort caused by fibre-rich foods, especially for sensitive individuals such as those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Our vision is clear: match dietary fibre types to gut microbiome subtypes to optimize health benefits without compromising digestive comfort. In its first year, FIBRE-MATCH has made significant strides toward this goal.

Key achievements in year one

• Mapping gut microbiome diversity:
  We processed approximately 1,700 human gut metagenome samples to identify and quantify fibre-degrading enzymes. Early analyses revealed a striking bimodal distribution of fibre degradation potential, suggesting distinct microbiome subtypes across individuals.
• Predicting digestive comfort:
  A novel computational pipeline was developed to estimate intestinal gas production based on metagenomic data. This is a critical step toward predicting which fibres may cause discomfort for specific microbiome profiles.
• In vitro screening of dietary fibres:
  Using optimized microplate and test-tube experiments, we assessed how different gut microbiota communities metabolize eight common dietary fibres. Results show that metabolite patterns depend strongly on both the microbiome and fibre type, with pH playing a key role.
• Selection of fibre sources for food prototypes:
  Rye bran, oat bran, and faba bean emerged as promising candidates for our upcoming clinical trials. Detailed chemical analyses of these fibres—before and after processing—are informing the design of fibre-rich food prototypes such as smoothie powders, snacks, and breads.
• Clinical trial preparations:
  Planning and method development for the proof-of-concept trial are underway, including staff recruitment and validation of protocols.

Why this matters

By enabling microbiome-tailored fibre intake, FIBRE-MATCH aims to make high-fibre diets more accessible and comfortable for everyone. In the long run, this approach could help close the fibre gap, reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases, and deliver substantial healthcare savings—cardiovascular disease alone costs the EU nearly €300 billion annually.

Stay tuned for updates as we move into the next phase: clinical trials and food prototype development!

 

31/10/25

The FIBRE-MATCH project gathered for an inspiring consortium meeting at the University of Helsinki on 29.-30.9.2025. We reviewed our first-year achievements and planned the next steps for our mission to close the fibre gap. The meeting combined strategic discussions with hands-on insights during a tour of the food science labs, where fibre-rich food prototype products are being developed for upcoming human trials.

18/04/25

Our consortium meeting was held in Tallinn University of Technology on 15.-16.4.2025. It included two days of good conversation and bright ideas with the FIBRE-MATCH project partners from University of Helsinki, Tallinn University of Technology and Örebro University. Inspired by this meeting, we continue making strides towards increasing fibre intake and health using gut microbiota-matched sustainable fibre sources!

07/04/25

Helsingin yliopistossa on aloittanut FIBRE-MATCH-konsortiohanke, joka sai 3,4 miljoonan euron rahoituksen Euroopan innovaationeuvoston (EIC) Pathfinder Challenges –ohjelmasta. Hanke selvittää, voiko suolistomikrobiston yksilöllisyyttä huomioimalla vähentää runsaskuituiseen ravintoon liittyviä vatsavaivoja, lisätä kuidun saantia ja siten edistää terveyttä. Lue lisää klikkaamalla tätä .

11/12/24

The call has closed. We have started to review the applications and aim to send the invitations before the Christmas.

31/10/24

The two-day face-to-face kick-off meeting on 18.-19.9.2024 for the FIBRE-MATCH project, hosted by the coordinator in Helsinki seaside, brought together project partners to align on objectives, timelines, and responsibilities. Many practical aspects of the research were effectively discussed, fostering collaboration and ensuring all members are well-prepared for the project’s next steps. Complemented with administrative and financial instructions, the meeting set a strong foundation for effective teamwork and project execution during the next four years.