Perceived awareness, objective nutrition knowledge, and health beliefs about probiotics and prebiotics among adults in the United Arab Emirates: a cross-sectional study

Background Probiotics and prebiotics are increasingly promoted as functional food components. This growing visibility has not been matched by consistent public understanding of their definitions, dietary sources, and scientifically supported health claims. Against this background, this study assessed perceived awareness, objective knowledge, information sources, and health beliefs related to probiotics and prebiotics among adults in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It also examined factors associated with adequate objective knowledge. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 744 adult UAE residents between April and May 2026. Perceived awareness was measured using a 10-point scale. Objective knowledge was assessed using four items on definitions and natural dietary sources, and adequate knowledge was defined as at least three correct answers. In addition, information sources and health beliefs were assessed, and multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with adequate objective knowledge. Results Mean perceived awareness was 4.6 ± 2.8, and 18.0% of participants reported high awareness. Mean objective knowledge was 1.9 ± 1.6, with 39.9% demonstrating adequate knowledge. Correct responses were highest for the probiotic definition (55.8%) and lowest for natural prebiotic sources (37.0%). High perceived awareness and high objective knowledge overlapped in only 10.1% of participants. In the multivariable model, internet/websites (90.3%) and social media (84.9%) were the most frequently reported information sources, but neither was independently associated with adequate knowledge. By contrast, receiving information from healthcare professionals was positively associated with adequate knowledge [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.83, p = 0.009]. Health beliefs were strongest for gut health and immunity and less certain for detoxification, obesity, stress, and mental health. Conclusion Perceived awareness did not consistently correspond to objective knowledge. These findings indicate a nutrition-related knowledge gap, particularly for prebiotics and their natural dietary sources. Digital nutrition communication should be strengthened by professional guidance and clearer messages that distinguish probiotic and prebiotic concepts, dietary sources, and scientifically supported health claims.