Short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) production is considered as (part of) the mechanism by which prebiotics exert beneficial effects on gut health, systemic physiological effects, and metabolic function. Increasing SCFA production and a more saccharolytic fermentation have thus been widely considered as a health benefit. Nevertheless, academic and commercial researchers are seeking consensus on the health benefits of colonic SCFA production. Achieving more clarity on this subject will also support policymakers in assessing the benefits of prebiotics and dietary fibre consumption for the consumer.

Objectives
An expert group set up by ILSI Europe’s Prebiotics Task Force investigates and evaluates the current scientific knowledge on SCFAs as a health benefit/biomarker by providing coherent evidence of their beneficial action(s). Consequently, the focus of this workshop will be on the refinement of the drafted manuscript and the conclusion on SCFA production in relation to health.

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