A definition for dietary fibre

The objective of this paper is to present a definition for dietary fibre ba sed on recent advances that have taken place not only in human nutrition bu t also in plant cell-wall science and animal nutrition. We propose a physio logically;based framework definition but, recognizing the diversity of diet ary fibre, we have proposed further classifications within this framework. We also suggest that dietary fibre be removed from the carbohydrate group o f nutrients because some compounds defined as dietary fibre are not chemica lly carbohydrates. The definition and classification system clearly highlig ht areas where further studies are needed.