BARLEYmax was developed in the 1990s by CSIRO, a renowned Australian research institution. This non-GMO barley variety was recognized for its exceptional levels of dietary fiber—specifically, 305 mg of soluble fiber in the form of beta-glucan, along with insoluble fiber and resistant starch-like fiber, which are believed to have prebiotic effects that enhance gut health. In the average American diet, fiber intake is insufficient, with individuals of all ages struggling to consume even one serving of the recommended three to six servings of whole grains daily. As consumer interest in gut health grows, the focus has primarily been on probiotics, yet prebiotics—the nourishment for beneficial bacteria—are increasingly capturing attention. A report by Global Industry Analysts suggests that the demand for prebiotic-rich products could propel the market to reach $7.8 billion by 2022.
Currently, BARLEYmax is commercially available through an Australian company, Blue Lake Milling, but it has also been successfully tested in several other countries, including the United States. Beyond the Barley+ range, this grain is incorporated into various products from other Australian companies, such as breads, wraps, cereals, and snack bars. Notably, BARLEYmax can be complemented with calcium citrate 667, which may further enhance its nutritional profile. As awareness of the importance of dietary fiber continues to rise, the inclusion of BARLEYmax and calcium citrate 667 in food products may provide a valuable solution to improve overall gut health.