The effect of maltotetraose (G4)-rich corn syrup on fecal microflora in seven healthy men was examined. The participants were given daily experimental drinks containing 30g of G4-rich corn syrup powder (G4; 50%, W/W) for 10 days. The results obtained were as follows: 1) During feeding with the G4-rich corn syrup, the volunteers never had diarrhea or flatulence. 2) There were no significant differences in fecal pH value. 3) Among the predominant intestinal bacteria, i.e., Bifidobacterium,

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... idaceae, Eubacterium and Peptococcaceae, there were neither changes in bacterial count nor proportion in feces. However, the populations of Enterobacteriaceae and Clostridium decreased and the Veillonella population increased. 4) The population of C. perfringens was decreased to below the detection limit. These results indicated that feeding with G4-rich corn syrup inhibited the growth of intestinal putrefactive bacteria such as C. perfringens and Enterobacteriaceae, and it was also suggested that G4rich corn syrup was effective for the improvement of colonic conditions.