Challenges and trends in the industrial production and application of cellooligosaccharides

Cellooligosaccharides (COS) are emerging oligomers formed by short glucose chains that provide health benefits to consumers in addition to other important industrial applications. COS can be obtained by synthesis or derived from the conversion of cellulose from plant cell walls using physicochemical and enzymatic methods. There are many challenges related to increasing the yields of COS production processes and controlling the degree of polymerization. Recently, these oligomers are being explored for their role in the beneficial modulation of the intestinal microbiota in animals and for their possible use as nutraceutical ingredients in functional foods. In vitro studies indicate that COS provides potential health benefits, including prebiotic, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects. This review article presents the main advances, challenges, and trends, some related to the production and industrial applications of COS.