Development of a plant-based functional dietary supplement containing sprouted oats, barley, licorice root, and Jerusalem artichoke: Justification of raw materials and optimization of dosage

Background: The global rise in diabetes mellitus highlights the urgent need for functional dietary supplements with proven bioactivity. Jerusalem artichoke, germinated oats, germinated barley, and licorice root are natural sources of prebiotic fibers and bioactive compounds with synergistic metabolic benefits. Objective: This study aimed to develop a plant-based functional dietary supplement for individuals with impaired carbohydrate metabolism, optimize its composition, and evaluate its technological, sensory, and functional properties. Methods: Four formulations with varying proportions of Jerusalem artichoke, germinated oats, germinated barley, and licorice root were prepared. Water-holding capacity (WHC), bulk density, and flowability were determined according to adapted national standards. Inulin content was estimated using a validated calculation model based on published compositional data for each ingredient, followed by Pearson’s correlation and one-way ANOVA to determine optimal composition. All measurements were performed in triplicate, and results were expressed as mean ± standard deviation (SD). Results: The formulation containing 60% Jerusalem artichoke, 12.5% germinated oats, 12.5% germinated barley, and 15% licorice root demonstrated balanced inulin content (10.88%), optimal WHC (0.701 g/g), good flowability (34°), and favorable sensory properties. Pearson’s correlation showed the strongest positive association between Jerusalem artichoke content and inulin level (r = 0.670), while ANOVA revealed no significant differences in inulin content between 50–70 g Jerusalem artichoke (p = 0.61). Conclusion: The optimized formulation is technologically feasible for encapsulation and offers functional benefits for individuals with diabetes. This study introduces a novel synergistic blend of germinated cereals and medicinal plant material, emphasizing reproducibility through transparent methodology and statistical validation. Keywords: functional dietary supplement, Jerusalem artichoke, germinated oats, germinated barley, licorice root, inulin, diabetes