Dietary fibers are carbohydrates in the feed that are not or partially digestible but play an important role in gut health. In ruminants, fibers are largely fermented in the rumen, while in monogastric animals, fibers mainly affect gastrointestinal function, microbiota, and passage.

In animal feed, a distinction is made between structural fibers, which stimulate chewing activity and rumen function, and fermentable fibers, which support short-chain fatty acids and a favorable intestinal environment. A well-thought-out use of dietary fibers contributes to feed intake, well-being, and resistance.