Simulated gastrointestinal digestion of two convenience meals using fungal enzyme formulations

Dietary supplements containing microbial enzymes are widely used to support digestion and optimize nutrient absorption, particularly in individuals with functional dyspepsia characterized by impaired gastric emptying and endogenous enzyme secretion. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro digestive performance of two fungal-derived enzyme blends, Poolzyme® MULTI and Poolzyme® DAIRY, on representative convenience meals using the standardized INFOGEST static digestion protocol. Simulated oral, gastric, and intestinal phases of digestion were conducted according to the INFOGEST model. Two food matrices, a fast-food hamburger with fries and a multi-cheese frozen pizza, were incubated under enzyme-free control conditions or with Poolzyme® MULTI or Poolzyme® DAIRY at manufacturer-recommended doses. At the end of the intestinal phase, digesta were collected and analyzed for total free amino acids, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), residual lactose, glucose release, and free fatty acids (FFAs) using validated analytical assays. Both enzyme blends significantly enhanced proteolysis compared to controls, as evidenced by increased total free amino acids and BCAA liberation. Poolzyme® DAIRY yielded a dose-dependent reduction in residual lactose in the cheese-based matrix. Poolzyme® MULTI's amylolytic and cellulolytic activities augmented glucose release from carbohydrate-rich foods, while lipolytic activity in both formulations markedly increased FFA liberation. Kinetic profiles indicated accelerated substrate hydrolysis and elevated nutrient bioaccessibility across both meal types. Fungal-derived enzyme blends effectively complement endogenous digestive enzymes, improving macronutrient hydrolysis and bioaccessibility in diverse dietary contexts. These mechanistic insights support clinical observations of symptom alleviation in functional dyspepsia and underscore the potential of targeted enzyme supplementation to optimize digestion of processed convenience foods.