Important impact of water-based enzyme-assisted extracts on gut microbial ecology.

All extracts influenced gut microbiota numbers and activity albeit at distinct levels.

Stimulatory effect on Bifidobacterium spp by Pholiota nameko and Osmundea pinnatifida extracts at 1%.

No significant changes on lactobacilli by the four extracts tested at 1%.

Selective increase in bifidobacteria, total short chain fatty acids and lactic acid uphold prebiotic activity.