An Overview of Non Starch Polysaccharide

Abstract Polysaccharides are macromolecules of monosaccharides linked by glycosidic bonds. Polysaccharides are widespread biopolymers, which quantitatively represent the most important group of nutrients in feed. These are major components of plant materials used in rations for monogastrics. Non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) contain ß-glucans, cellulose, pectin and hemicellulose. NSP consist of both soluble and insoluble fractions. Soluble NSP of cereals such as wheat, barley and rye increases intestinal viscosity there by interfere with the digestive processes and exert strong negative effects on net utilisation of energy. NSP cannot be degraded by endogeneous enzymes and therefore reach the colon almost indigested. Insoluble NSP make up the bulk in the diets. NSP are known to posses anti-nutritional properties by either encapsulating nutrients and/or depressing overall nutrient digestibility through gastro-intestinal modifications