Aspergillus Oryza
Also known as: Koji mold, yellow koji mold, A. oryzae, Aspergillus oryzae
Overview
Aspergillus oryzae is a filamentous fungus widely utilized in traditional Asian fermentation processes, such as the production of sake, miso, and soy sauce. It is recognized for its ability to produce a variety of enzymes, including amylases, proteases, and cellulases, which are crucial for breaking down complex carbohydrates and proteins into simpler, more digestible forms. As a supplement ingredient, A. oryzae is often incorporated for its potential prebiotic effects and its capacity to enhance nutrient absorption, particularly when individuals consume high-fiber diets. While its use in food fermentation is well-established, research specifically on A. oryzae as a human dietary supplement is still emerging. Current studies primarily focus on its enzymatic activity and its impact on nutrient digestibility in animal models and industrial fermentation processes. High-quality human clinical trials, such as systematic reviews or meta-analyses, are limited, indicating that the evidence base for its direct human supplementation benefits is still developing.
Benefits
Supplementation with *Aspergillus oryzae* prebiotic (AOP) has demonstrated significant benefits in animal models, primarily by enhancing nutrient digestibility. In growing pigs fed high-fiber diets, AOP supplementation increased the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of dry matter, gross energy, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, and ash. This led to a statistically significant increase of 35 kcal/kg in diet digestible energy (p < 0.05), suggesting improved nutrient utilization and energy extraction from fiber-rich feeds. Beyond direct digestibility, *A. oryzae* has shown potential for enhanced biomass production and enzyme activity under optimized conditions, which implies broader applications in improving fermentation processes and nutrient bioavailability. While these findings are robust in animal studies, particularly in pigs and poultry feed, there is currently a lack of high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in humans. Therefore, while promising, the direct benefits for human populations require further clinical investigation.
How it works
*Aspergillus oryzae* primarily exerts its effects through the production of a diverse array of extracellular enzymes. These include amylases, which break down complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars; proteases, which degrade proteins into amino acids; and cellulases, which break down dietary fibers. By secreting these enzymes, *A. oryzae* facilitates the degradation of otherwise poorly digestible dietary components into more absorbable forms. This enzymatic activity directly enhances nutrient digestibility and improves the extraction of energy from food. While not a direct probiotic, its enzymatic action can indirectly act as a prebiotic by providing more accessible substrates for beneficial gut microbiota, thereby modifying gut microbial activity. The improvements in nutrient absorption are a consequence of this enzymatic breakdown rather than direct absorption of the fungal components themselves.
Side effects
*Aspergillus oryzae* is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food fermentation, a status supported by its extensive traditional use in Asian cuisines. In animal studies, no significant adverse effects have been reported at the tested supplementation levels. However, it is important to note that there is a lack of high-quality human safety data from randomized controlled trials specifically on *A. oryzae* as a dietary supplement. While the risk of allergenicity or mycotoxin production from industrial strains used in supplements and food is considered minimal, individuals with severe mold allergies should exercise caution. Based on the available research, there are no documented drug interactions or contraindications. Despite its GRAS status in food, comprehensive human clinical trials are needed to fully establish its safety profile, potential side effects, and interactions when consumed as a concentrated supplement.
Dosage
Currently, there are no established human dosing guidelines for *Aspergillus oryzae* as a dietary supplement due to the limited number of human clinical trials. Animal studies, particularly in growing pigs, have utilized supplementation levels around 0.05% of the diet (w/w) to achieve prebiotic effects and improve nutrient digestibility. The optimal dosage for humans would likely depend on the specific formulation, the intended purpose (e.g., digestive aid, general wellness), and individual physiological factors. Information regarding timing considerations for consumption (e.g., with meals) and absorption cofactors is also not well-defined in the existing research. Without human clinical data, upper limits and safety thresholds for human consumption as a supplement remain unestablished. Consumers should exercise caution and consult healthcare professionals before using *A. oryzae* supplements, especially given the lack of specific human dosage recommendations.
FAQs
Is Aspergillus oryzae safe for human consumption?
Generally, yes, as it's widely used in traditional food fermentation. However, specific human clinical safety data for its use as a dietary supplement are limited, so caution is advised.
Does it improve digestion?
In animal models, *A. oryzae* significantly improves the digestibility of fiber and protein by producing enzymes that break down complex nutrients, suggesting potential digestive benefits.
Can it be used as a probiotic?
*A. oryzae* functions more as a source of digestive enzymes (prebiotic-like effect) rather than a live probiotic microorganism that directly colonizes the gut.
What are the expected benefits?
Based on animal studies, the primary expected benefits include improved nutrient absorption and enhanced energy extraction, particularly from high-fiber dietary components.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9930732/ – This study investigated the effects of *Aspergillus oryzae* prebiotic (AOP) on nutrient digestibility in growing pigs fed high-fiber diets. It found that AOP supplementation significantly increased the apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter, gross energy, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, and ash, leading to a 35 kcal/kg increase in digestible energy. The study suggests AOP can improve nutrient utilization in high-fiber diets, though it was conducted on animals and had partial industry funding.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12113082/ – This research focused on optimizing the production of biomass and enzymes by *Aspergillus oryzae* in vitro. It demonstrated that adjusting pH and supplementing nutrients could enhance sugar consumption and fungal biomass. This study provides mechanistic support for *A. oryzae*'s ability to produce enzymes and utilize substrates, but it is an in vitro study and not a clinical trial on living organisms.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1155/sci5/4315411 – This study explored the optimization of solid-state fermentation using *Aspergillus oryzae* to enhance the nutritional value and digestibility of feed substrates for poultry. The findings indicate that *A. oryzae* can improve feed efficiency by breaking down complex components. This research highlights the applied potential of *A. oryzae* in animal feed, but it is an applied microbiology study rather than a human clinical trial.
Supplements Containing Aspergillus Oryza
Activite Sport
MHP Maximum Human Performance
Cholesta-Lo
Bronson
Pressur-Lo
Bronson
Male Super Pack
Douglas Laboratories
Female Super Pack
Douglas Laboratories
Nutritional Management Pack
Douglas Laboratories
Power Dairy-Zyme Caps
Country Life
Heprenew
Physician's Signature
Cleansing Formula
GNC Preventive Nutrition