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Galacto-Oligosaccharides

Low concern

GOS is well-established as a safe prebiotic and is widely used in infant formulas. FDA has acknowledged GRAS notices for GOS.

Found in

166 products

What it is

Short-chain carbohydrates (GOS) produced enzymatically from lactose, used as prebiotic fibers.

Prebiotic fiber; common in infant formulas, dietary fiber-enriched foods.

Why it's flagged

may cause GI discomfort at high doses
contains residual lactose (relevant to severe lactose intolerance)

What regulators actually say

"FDA had no questions regarding the conclusion that galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) are GRAS for the intended uses."

FDA GRAS Notice 285 — Galacto-oligosaccharides — cfsanappsexternal.fda.gov

"The Panel concluded that the addition of galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) to infant and follow-on formula at the proposed levels is safe."

EFSA — GOS in infant formula — efsa.europa.eu

Regulatory status

United States — FDA

GRAS via notice (e.g., GRN 285, 334, 484).

European Union — EFSA

Authorized for use in infant and follow-on formula.

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