inulin

noun

in·​u·​lin ˈin-yə-lən 

: a white, mildly sweet, indigestible polysaccharide that occurs chiefly in the roots or tubers of various plants (such as chicory or Jerusalem artichoke), that on hydrolysis yields levulose, and that is used as an additive in low-fat and low-sugar foods to improve the flavor and texture, and as a diagnostic agent in a test for kidney function

Examples of inulin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Also made with hyaluronic acid, arnica flower extract, and inulin, the formula improves the skin’s hydration levels and floods it with antioxidant protection. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 15 Apr. 2025

Gut experts warn about the risks of consuming inulin, the fiber typically found in prebiotic sodas. —Laura Barrero, Axios, 3 Apr. 2025

The formula also features inulin (a prebiotic humectant), arginine (an amino acid), oat extract, and soothing aloe vera to round things out and keep moisture locked in. —Annie Blackman, Allure, 20 Mar. 2025

Once there, the inulin helps nourish the good bacteria that make up your gut microbiome. —Caroline Hopkins Legaspi, New York Times, 14 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

probably from German Inulin, from Latin inula elecampane

First Known Use

1813, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for inulin

• calmodulin

Medical Definition

inulin

noun

in·​u·​lin ˈin-yə-lən 

: a white mildly sweet plant polysaccharide that resists digestion in the stomach and small intestine, is extracted commercially especially from the roots and rhizomes of composite plants (as chicory), and is used as a source of levulose, as a diagnostic agent in a test for kidney function, and as a food additive to improve the flavor and texture of low-fat and low-sugar processed foods see oligofructose