LAUSR

Abstract Rheological properties of pectins with a different chemical characteristic in a simulated gastrointestinal fluid, as well as behavioural satiety sequence and food intake in mice, were investigated. Mice treated with pectin isolated from floscules of tansy Tanacetum vulgare L. (TVF) spent less time feeding and ate less food. Apple pectin (AU701) failed to alter food intake and feeding time. Whole-gut transit time was slowed down by both pectins. The TVF pectin showed greater apparent viscosity in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) than in water or when incubated in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF). The AU701 showed no change in apparent viscosity after sequential incubation in SGF and SIF. Our data demonstrate that TVF pectin with branched structure and a low degree of methyl-esterification can form a very viscous solution and produce greater effects on feeding behaviour and food intake.