Feed · Technical Articles
Xylanase vs beta-glucanase: choosing by substrate
Xylanase targets xylan, while beta-glucanase targets beta-glucan. Both can be relevant to plant-based feed ingredients, but their roles are not interchangeable simply because both relate to non-starch polysaccharides.
Educational guide · 2026-10-04 · Product-specific conditions require confirmation.
In this guide
Understand the mechanism and the process
Begin with the ingredient profile and the constraint you are investigating. Identify whether the candidate activity matches the material of interest, then consider a single activity or a blend. A blend should have a reason for each included activity.
- Xylan / beta-glucan
- Match the activity
- Evaluate the feed
Plan a useful evaluation
- Map the cereal and other ingredient sources in the diet.
- Request the individual activity declarations and assay methods for a blend.
- Review animal category, feed manufacture and addition point.
- Define how the proposed preparation will be evaluated against the current feed.
What needs confirmation?
Activity units from different enzymes cannot be compared as if they were one scale. A higher number for one activity does not make it more suitable for another substrate.
Should I always choose a blend containing both?
No. The decision should follow the formulation and supporting application evidence, not the number of activities listed.
Reference and scope
This educational guide explains selection and evaluation considerations. It does not replace a product-specific TDS, SDS or an agreed trial protocol.