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Antioxidants Excel as Consumers Recognize them as Allies in Everyday Health Goals

The antioxidant market is branching out in new directions, offering more innovative, research-backed applications.

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Oxidative stress, defined as an overabundance of free radicals and not enough antioxidant molecules to neutralize them, poses a constant threat to the body. As consumers continue to double down on proactive approaches to health, managing oxidative stress is a big part of the picture. 

A consumer shift to proactive health management “is driving interest in day-to-day wellness routines, which is evidenced by the projected growth data we’re seeing for this category,” said Sara Zoet, director of activation marketing and communications for OmniActive Health Technologies. “In January, OpenPR reported that the global natural antioxidants market is expected to grow at an impressive CAGR of 11% from now until the end of the decade, an estimated $2.98 billion in 2025 to an estimated $4.53 billion by 2029.”

Since oxidative stress became a hot research topic a few decades ago, it’s been implicated in a wide range of health outcomes. But most shoppers don’t have a deep knowledge of this field. The dietary supplement industry is attempting to bridge that knowledge gap, by spotlighting breakthroughs on precise, targeted antioxidant formulations.

“Antioxidants are no longer considered simply good for general health as they now have their place as vital support for healthy aging and, in particular, skin health, cognitive function, and even heart health,” said Ron Martin, vice president, Nutrients Division, Kaneka North America. “The terms ‘free radicals’ and ‘oxidative damage’ are slowly being thrown around by the average person on the street.”

The War On Oxidative Stress

“The modern lifestyle, with its emphasis on high levels of environmental stressors like pollution, UV exposure, smoking, poor diet, and mental stress, is thought to exacerbate oxidative damage,” said Susan Hamrahi, ND, scientific communications specialist at AstaReal, Inc. “Consumers are turning to antioxidant supplements as a protective measure.”

Most health and wellness shoppers in the post-pandemic world have been taking a closer look at the interactions between lifestyle choices, oxidative stress, and immunity, noted Maria Stanieich, senior marketing manager at Kyowa Hakko USA.

“The distilled concept consumers understand is that free radicals impair immune function and antioxidants arrest free radicals, therefore antioxidants protect immune function,” concurred Annie Eng, founder and CEO of HP Ingredients. “Although the COVID-19 pandemic is now approaching a 5-year mark, its effects on health consciousness endure, thus creating a sustained demand for antioxidants that support and improve overall resilience and vitality.”

Antioxidants are generally perceived by consumers as a “good idea” for a healthy aging protocol and for the prevention of chronic health issues, said Steve Fink, vice president of marketing for PLT Health Solutions.

Where consumers tend to split is on whether they opt for antioxidant supplements with more generic ingredients for all-purpose applications, or premium, branded ingredients validated for a more specific health condition. “Both segments hold strong positions in the market, reflecting diverse consumer priorities,” said Ido Kretchmer, vice president of strategy and corporate development at TopGum

“Branded ingredients offer the transparency consumers seek, from structure-function claims backed by science to websites and a social media presence that helps establish trust and credibility, and educates consumers on the quality of the ingredients,” said Stanieich. 

Commodity ingredients have stronger footing within the fortified food and drink space, to keep products meant to be taken multiple times per day or week affordable, noted Chris Lenderink, botanical research scientist at Verdure Sciences. “The beauty of this industry is that there is something out there for everyone … [a consumer’s] stack containing branded ingredients might be reserved for very specific activities they have going on in a particular day or week.”

Antonio King, digital marketing specialist at Verdure Sciences, noted that more savvy consumers can be motivated by front-and-center claims related to performance. The company tested the effect of its Pomella pomegranate extract on antioxidant capacity, as measured by ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) testing, finding that the supplement increased this measure by 32% in 30 minutes.1

While ORAC scores can be valuable, it’s important to then translate findings to real-world clinical outcomes, “and show how antioxidant combinations work together for tangible results for consumers,” said Alex Glover, head of product formulation, Europe, at TSI Group Ltd. “Tangible results are also easier to demonstrate to consumers when there is direct clinical evidence for some selected ingredients.”

“In general, we are in an exciting place in the nutraceutical space as individuals are approaching their health in a more educated and intentional way … Branded ingredients such as Kaneka Ubiquinol (an antioxidant form of CoQ10) have created a unique space within the market by initially focusing on bioavailability, efficacy, and targeted areas of health, such as mitochondrial health and oxidative stress and how it affects healthy aging, heart health, etc.,” said Martin.

The broad desire for personalized products will continue to drive more targeted antioxidant formulations, said Ariati Aris, PhD, scientific affairs specialist at PhytoGaia. “This has led to rising demand for targeted formulations such as tocotrienols for brain and heart health, plant squalene for skin health, or lutein and zeaxanthin for enhanced eye health protection … These formulations often combine antioxidants with other complementary ingredients, such as TocoGaia with omega-3 for cognitive support or STGaia (a combination of tocotrienols and squalene) with collagen for skin health, maximizing their effectiveness and distinguishing them from generic antioxidant products.”

“Credibility is built through clinical studies, third-party certifications, and endorsements from healthcare professionals or influencers,” said Kretchmer. “The industry can generate more nuanced discussions by promoting diverse antioxidant sources, collaborating with experts, and educating consumers about the wide-ranging health benefits antioxidants offer beyond generic claims.”

According to Lenderink, it’s time to move past simplistic “antioxidant” claims. “Moving forward, there should be a nuanced discussion of clinical research at the mechanistic level. It’s an exciting area of exploration and discussion and with consumers becoming more educated about these mechanisms every day, this creates an incredible opportunity for product developers to engage in meaningful, informed conversations with their audience.”

“Antioxidant activity itself is the means to an end,” concurred Rafal Pietruszynski, CEO of Greenvit, so focus on differentiation and clinical research is warranted.

The industry would do well to highlight different mechanisms “such as free radical scavenging versus inflammation reduction, and by educating consumers about specific compounds like polyphenols, carotenoids, and flavonoids, emphasizing their distinct roles in health. Greater transparency in ingredient sourcing and clinical validation also boosts credibility,” said Hamrahi.

“Antioxidants are hard to connect with, but anyone can relate to a story about a college student that finds a naturally-derived brain boost without the jittery effects which make it hard to sit still and focus,” said Brian Zapp, director of marketing at Applied Food Sciences, “or about a mom who has to power through cold seasons by powering up her immune system around her young children, or an athlete striving to increase reaction times and push their mind and muscles to their personal best.”

Martin noted that the recent groundswell of interest in longevity and healthy aging has been a major growth source for specialty ingredients, like NAD+ boosters. “NAD+ boosters have become popular for their association with longevity, metabolism, and DNA repair, which have been turbo-charged by celebrity endorsements and a burgeoning anti-aging industry.”

“Longevity is an increasingly prominent trend across global markets, with antioxidants playing a key role in mitigating age-related diseases,” concurred Glover, with targeted botanical solutions playing a big part. “Carotenoids are gaining traction in skin care, anthocyanin-rich berry extracts are being explored for cognitive support, and cocoa flavanols are emerging as a key ingredient for cardiovascular health.” The new concept of ‘inflammaging’ is leading more products to place cellular health claims front and center, he noted.

Some recent antioxidant launches with longevity claims include Bayer’s One A Day Cell Defense, which features olive polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, resveratrol, astaxanthin, vitamins C and D, and niacin; Longevity By Nature’s antioxidant-heavy portfolio of specialized longevity supplements; and AX3, an astaxanthin supplement which was found to extend the median lifespan of male mice by 12% in an NIH-funded study.

Specialty antioxidant formulations for longevity don’t just appeal to those who are already over the hill, Zoet said, but include parents and caregivers who want to give children a strong foundation early on, working-age adults who want to feel and perform their best, and older adults contending with concerns related to vision, mobility, and independence.

Researchers are uncovering new benefits associated with high-antioxidant diets. A higher dietary antioxidant index may be associated with a reduced risk of high cholesterol, per a study published in Scientific Reports in January. Researchers evaluated the antioxidant index from 27,493 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), and found that the top quartile had a 15% lower prevalence of hyperlipidemia than those at the bottom quartile.2

“There has been limited literature on the cumulative impact of diverse dietary antioxidants, as quantified by the Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI), specifically on hyperlipidemia,” the authors wrote, noting that endogenous antioxidant defenses have previously been linked to improved lipid profiles. “The present investigation unequivocally reveals a pronounced inverse correlation between the CDAI and the prevalence of hyperlipidemia within a substantial, demographically representative cohort of adults residing in the United States.”

Photo: Okrasiuk/shutterstock.com

Beauty from Within

Well-established antioxidants have been studied extensively for their role in mitigating UV damage, collagen degradation, and the slowdown of skin repair mechanisms, at deeper layers of the skin than where topical products reach. “Decades of focus on these ingredients in cosmetics have laid the foundation for this growing trend,” said Kretchmer.

Squalene, a lipid produced by the body, has been heralded in the cosmetics industry for its ability to hydrate the skin and scavenge free radicals. After years of topical use, it’s now common in beauty-from-within supplements, noted Aris. “Beyond skin care, squalene’s ability to support immune health is gaining recognition, as it helps protect cells from oxidative damage and enhances the body’s natural defenses … Plant-based squalene is emerging as a preferred choice for consumers who want effective and
ethical solutions.”

Many common supplement ingredients have a long history of topical use, but others, such as lycopene, resveratrol, and astaxanthin are showing unique roles in supplements to support skin health, barrier function, and UV defense, Glover noted.

Antioxidants are often featured in combination formulas with collagen. These include Thorne’s Collagen Plus, a collagen formula which features nicotinamide riboside for antioxidant support, as well as Reserveage Beauty’s Collagen Booster, which combines BioCell Collagen with antioxidants from Japanese knotweed extract, organic French whole red grape, and organic muscadine whole red grape.

Photo: Jacob Lund/shutterstock.com

The Essentials and The Endogenous

Glutathione has stood out as a “primary” antioxidant for years due to its wide-ranging roles in regulating immune function, cellular health, DNA repair, liver detoxification, synergistic effects with other antioxidants, and more.

“By binding to heavy metals and toxins, glutathione and its associated enzymes help the blood carry these compounds to the kidneys where they are then excreted from the body. Maintaining adequate glutathione levels is associated with optimal health and immune function,” Stanieich said. “Glutathione is notable for its powerful antioxidant and detoxification effects, and its capability to boost the effectiveness of other antioxidants,” like vitamins C and E, which can be “reactivated” by glutathione after neutralizing free radicals.

Similarly, “ubiquinol recycles vitamin E from its oxidized state back to its active form, allowing vitamin E to effectively generate antioxidants within the body,” Martin noted.

Conveying the advantages of specific forms of common antioxidants can be a strong selling point.

“Tocotrienols, a highly potent form of vitamin E, are gaining traction for their superior antioxidant capabilities compared to tocopherols, the more common form of vitamin E,” noted Aris. “Unlike tocopherols, tocotrienols have an unsaturated tail allowing them to move more efficiently within cell membranes. This unique structure advantage enhances their antioxidant activity, making them 40-60 times more potent than tocopherols, and also enables deeper tissue penetration, particularly in organs with high fat content such as the brain. Remarkably, studies have shown that tocotrienols are up to 1,000 times more effective than tocopherols in protecting neurons from oxidative stress, highlighting its critical role in brain health.”3-4

Clinical studies provide evidence that these mechanisms translate to improved measures of cognition. “Beyond the brain and cognitive health, tocotrienols offer additional benefits including cardiovascular support by reducing LDL cholesterol and arterial plaque formation, enhancing liver function, and promoting healthy skin and hair growth, delivering holistic benefits that meet today’s wellness demands,” Aris said.5-8

Photo: Olena Rudo/shutterstock.com

Botanicals and Specialty Ingredients

According to Glover, plant-derived antioxidants are appealing to consumers because of strong scientific backing demonstrating their effectiveness, versatility across a range of health applications, and that they offer natural, clean-label ingredients.

Plant-based products that more closely resemble whole foods are perceived by some consumers as more effective and safer, said Hamrahi, which has led to resveratrol, curcumin, astaxanthin, and green tea extract becoming more popular in antioxidant formulas.

“From a broad perspective, polyphenols are starting to take center stage in discussions about antioxidants and savvy consumers are beginning to look beyond these primary compounds in their products,” said Lenderink.

There are over 8,000 types of polyphenols found in nature, and a diverse mixture of polyphenols can offer far-reaching benefits. This class of antioxidants, which includes flavonoids, flavanols, anthocyanins, and others, has unique beneficial effects on the gut, particularly with markers of inflammation, barrier function, and changes to the microbiome. Verdure Sciences’ Pomella pomegranate extract, Restoridyn polyphenol blend, and Longvida curcumin have witnessed growth in tandem with the broader gut health market, noted King.

“Super berries” are of strong intrigue to consumers today, thanks in large part to consumer familiarity. Aronia is a potent fruit in terms of antioxidant activity, positioning Greenvit’s Aronvit ingredient for the immune support segment, along with emerging benefits such as cardiometabolic protection through impacts on blood lipids, said Pietruszynski. “Additionally, by reducing the action of enzymes active in lipid metabolism, anthocyanins inhibit their oxidation and the immunological response to LDLox and their capture by macrophages. The findings from studies conducted to analyze the protective effect of anthocyanins in insulin resistance and obesity showed that anthocyanins are effective in increasing tissue responsiveness to insulin, in reducing weight gain and lipid accumulation.”

Eng noted that maqui berry ingredients have been surging in popularity, thanks to findings on delphinidin, which comprises up to 80% of the anthocyanins in the fruit. “In one study, maqui berry juice was found to exhibit strong anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting NFkappaB (NFkB), a key regulator of the immune and inflammatory response systems. In addition, maqui berry juice reduces COX-2 expression, an enzyme responsible for inflammation. Researchers have shown that the activation of PPAR gamma leads to the inhibition of NFkB as well as reduction of COX-2 and prostaglandins … Our ingredient (MaquiCare) has been shown through published studies to support several label claims, including promoting healthy cholesterol and healthy blood sugar.”9

TopGum has been highlighting the flavonoid and polyphenolic content of honey, which it uses to sweeten its HoneyGum line of products, which are formulated to support healthy immune, inflammatory, and oxidative stress responses, said Kretchmer.

Grape seed proanthocyanidins have been of significant intrigue lately, Fink said, thanks in large part to research on cardiovascular benefits. “They have been shown to inhibit lipid peroxidation, platelet aggregation, capillary permeability and fragility, and modulate the activity of enzyme systems including cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase. The availability of the phenolic hydrogens to act as hydrogen donating radical scavengers and singlet oxygen quenchers predicts the antioxidant activity of the bioflavonoids.”

PLT distributes MegaNatural-BP, a grape seed extract sourced from California red and white varietal grape seeds. A patented extraction process reduces the molecular size of polyphenols to improve bioavailability and absorption rates compared to conventional standardized extracts, Fink said. The ingredient has been clinically studied to support the maintenance of healthy blood pressure when taken at daily dosages of 150-300 mg per day, he added.

Consumers are experiencing a heightened awareness of their chronic stress issues, Kretchmer said, and how these interplay with oxidative stress. As a result, botanicals with antioxidant and stress benefits are in vogue. “Antioxidants such as ashwagandha and polyphenols are now favored for their dual benefits in reducing oxidative damage and supporting stress management,” he said.

Curcumin has been a breakout star with an estimated global market size of $93.24 million in 2024 (per Fortune Business Insights), thanks in part to its far-ranging activities, noted Rory Coleman, assistant director of scientific, regulatory, and advocacy at OmniActive Health Technologies. “Curcumin’s antioxidant properties are associated with several mechanisms including direct scavenging of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, and metal chelation, which helps prevent the formation of free radicals.”

Botanical antioxidants can also help supplement brands tap into performance-based cognitive benefits like clarity and energy, noted Zapp. “Our AmaTea Max organic guayusa extract offers a unique combination of chlorogenic acids and caffeine to provide a more balanced energy and focus,” he said.

OmniActive’s enXtra, an Alpinia galanga extract formulated to support mental energy, attention, and focus, is becoming popular as a caffeine alternative in energy beverages and other products, and new research has demonstrated its antioxidant properties from secondary metabolites, noted Coleman.10

Antioxidant-rich mushroom extracts are a popular way to bridge cognitive support and oxidative stress benefits. “MycoThrive functional mushrooms, depending on the variety, can have a high amount of antioxidants, along with other benefits such as immune support and mood enhancement,” Zapp said. AFS’s lion’s mane extract, for instance, is an antioxidant-rich extract formulated to support cognition, neuroprotection, and immune function. 

Carotenoids have been central to the eye health supplements market, noted Coleman. “The macular carotenoids — lutein, RR-zeaxanthin, and RS (meso)zeaxanthin — are also potent antioxidants which have been shown to help support eye and cognitive health, as well as skin health benefits across all ages. These three macular carotenoids have been shown to neutralize reactive oxygen species, free radicals, and hydroxyl radicals.11

The nutraceutical industry is branching out and exploring the potential of other carotenoids, following the foundational findings on lutein and zeaxanthin, noted Aris. PhytoGaia’s offering in this space is CaroGaia, a blend of alpha- and beta-carotene, lycopene from tomatoes, and lutein and zeaxanthin sourced from marigold flowers.

Compared to synthetic vitamins, botanical antioxidants offer an appealing option for those seeking natural, clean-label products, with options for strong sustainability and fair trade credentials. Consumers indicate a strong preference for botanically-sourced vitamins over synthetic alternatives, said Zapp. “Our PurC Organic vitamin C, derived from organic acerola cherries, delivers powerful antioxidant benefits while aligning with clean-label and organic trends,” he offered. “Especially in today’s political climate, consumers want to know where ingredients come from and how they’re sourced.”

“Products featuring recognizable, natural ingredients with clear and ethical sourcing are highly favored. Label claims like ‘non-GMO,’ ‘plant-based,’ and ‘sustainably sourced’ resonate strongly, reflecting the growing consumer demand for trust and eco-conscious choices in purchasing decisions,” said Aris. “Traditionally sourced from shark liver oil, squalene has found a sustainable and ethical alternative in plant-based sources like palm fruit, driving its resurgence in the market.”

An ingredient which has an ethical story to tell is highly appealing, as well.

“According to 18th century Spanish documents, maqui berry has been consumed by the only unconquered indigenous people in the Americas, the Mapuche, for health and well-being,” said Eng. “Mapuche warriors consumed a fermented beverage made from this indigenous berry called chicha that they claim contributed to their extraordinary strength and stamina during battle. Our MaquiCare, which contains 7% delphinidins and 10% anthocyanins, is wild harvested by the Mapuche in a certified organic native forest in Chile. They collect the berries without machines and use pruned branches as fertilizer for the plants. MaquiCare is 100% certified organic by both U.S. NOP and the E.U.”

Solvent-free extraction processes are a big draw for clean-label consumers, according to Pietruszynski. “For example, our PureGreenLine technology is utilized to produce Greenvit’s purified prebiotic berry extracts: tart cherry, elderberry, aronia, black currant, bilberry, and blueberry. They are all maltodextrin- and silicone dioxide-free and are 100% water-soluble with no added sugars. These characteristics coalesce to create a unique identity for our branded berry ingredients.”

Sourcing botanicals from indigenous areas is of growing importance in the market, Pietruszynski noted. “All aronia berries are not grown equally. We are able to source all our berries from the regions in which they are indigenous; this is important as indigenous plants have the ratio of actives desired and previously studied … The ability to quantify anthocyanins and related actives underscores the transparency that consumers seek.”

Greenvit conducts UPLC and HPLC with DAD detection and UV-VIS spectrophotometers in-house. “This allows our analysts to develop and implement methods of determining biologically active substances in raw materials and plant extracts based on current pharmacopeias or available scientific literature.”

“Let’s face it, functional beverages are just way more fun than supplements. Consumers would much rather reach for a flashy can than a pill bottle, making it an ideal platform for antioxidants. Antioxidants in beverages are no longer just about vitamin C and juice blends.” — Brian Zapp, Applied Food Sciences

Astaxanthin in the Spotlight

Astaxanthin, a carotenoid commonly sourced from the Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae species, “has gained significant attention for its superior antioxidant capacity, surpassing other carotenoids like beta-carotene and lutein as one of the strongest antioxidants found in nature,” said Harmahi. AstaReal Astaxanthin has been subject to over 160 studies, more than 80 of which were human clinical trials. Emerging hot topics are healthy aging and sports/active nutrition.

“Astaxanthin has been linked to improved skin health, including reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promoting skin elasticity, and protecting against UV-induced damage … Astaxanthin is frequently included in both topical skin care products and oral supplements,” she added.

On the sports nutrition side, astaxanthin is associated with enhanced recovery following athletic performance. “One study found improvements in fatty acid oxidation and time trial performance among cyclists consuming 12 mg per day of astaxanthin for 7 days. Similarly, there has been increased antioxidant levels and decreased inflammatory markers in soccer players supplemented with 4 mg per day of astaxanthin over 90 days. In addition, research further demonstrated post-exercise oxygen uptake in individuals receiving 12 mg per day of astaxanthin, suggesting enhanced oxidative metabolism to incremental maximal exercise and improved exercise recovery.”12-15

Amid other signs that the industry is bracing for a surge in demand for this antioxidant, astaxanthin supplier BGG World doubled the capacity of its photobioreactor microalgae farm twice since 2021. Meanwhile, Algalif Iceland recently invested $30 million into expanding its astaxanthin production facility, increasing output by over threefold. 

According to Grand View Research, astaxanthin nutraceuticals represent approximately one-quarter of the $1.7 billion global astaxanthin market, and will dramatically outpace astaxanthin products as a whole in growth, even though the market at large is anticipated by the firm to grow at a 14.74% CAGR from 2025 to 2030.

Pressed Juicery recently launched a new juice cleanse protocol, available exclusively online and in-store at Target. 

Delivery Innovation

Younger generations demand convenience and they are more likely to comply with health regimens that include drinks compared to pills or powders, said Hamrahi. “However, one challenge is to fit enough active ingredients into a single serving. Energy gels are becoming more common as they offer an innovative solution; they are easier to consume, digest, and absorb, while providing the necessary dosage for efficacy in a portable, convenient format.”

“Emerging delivery formats, including gummies, sachets, and chews cater to convenience and lifestyle preferences,” Martin noted. “This generally means smarter, more targeted formulations.”

The beverage format has been especially popular for antioxidant supplementation, with whole-food ingredients taking center stage. Mainstream retailers are partnering with premium antioxidant beverage brands, suggesting that this is a major white space.

For example, Target has partnered with Pressed Juicery, a brand of antioxidant-fortified juices and wellness shots, to launch a store-exclusive Express Cleanse of four beverages.

“Powders dissolved in water or smoothies are gaining traction as a versatile delivery format. These products often include a blend of other superfoods like acai berry, spirulina, ashwagandha, and antioxidant-rich fruits,” said Aris.

“Let’s face it, functional beverages are just way more fun than supplements,” said Zapp. “Consumers would much rather reach for a flashy can than a pill bottle, making it an ideal platform for antioxidants.” Zapp noted especially strong interest in beverages positioned for cognition, performance, immunity, and recovery, and mushroom infusions continue to win big as well. “Antioxidants in beverages are no longer just about vitamin C and juice blends,” he noted. 

Novel delivery formats that are rapidly gaining traction, include “liposomal and nano-encapsulated antioxidants to improve the absorption of ingredients like curcumin, quercetin, and resveratrol, making them more effective in liquid formats,” said Glover. “Fermented antioxidants are also an emerging trend as the fermentation improves bioavailability, seen in drinks featuring fermented berries or green tea polyphenols.”

Glover also noted that, with many adults struggling to maintain an adequate intake of leafy greens, greens powders with blends of antioxidant-rich ingredients like spirulina, chlorella, and more represent a key innovation area.

PLT Health Solutions has been focused on growing its portfolio of neutral-tasting, water-dispersible ingredients formulated specifically for beverage-friendliness, with options for sports nutrition, weight management, healthy aging, joint health, and skin health. “Consumers are demanding more function from their functional beverages,” said Fink. “What has been lacking, however, are ingredients that are backed by solid clinical evidence, don’t affect organoleptics, and, at the same time, are easy to formulate. All that is changing now.” 

OmniActive’s Curcuwin Ultra+ is formulated with a proprietary delivery system that can protect and maintain similar curcuminoid profiles as those naturally found in turmeric, while enabling water dispersibility and extended solubility, noted Coleman.

In response to overwhelming demand for innovation on the sensory front, Verdure Sciences launched an in-house insights lab to collaborate with companies on the feasibility of product concepts that include its botanical ingredients, King noted. “Verdure Sciences recently showcased a functional beverage product concept with our Guavella pomegranate and guava leaf blend that exemplifies this approach to palatability for antioxidant supplementation and beverage formulation.”

Aris noted that more formulators have been using its STGaia in antioxidant beverages that support beauty benefits, in unique combinations such as with collagen or probiotics and postbiotics. “This hybrid approach not only maximizes health benefits but also appeals to multi-purpose solutions,” she said.

References

1. Mertens-Telcott et al. (2006). Absorption, metabolism, and antioxidant effects of pomegranate (Punica granatum l.) polyphenols after ingestion of a standardized extract in healthy human volunteers. J Agric Food Chem. 54(23):8956-61. doi: 10.1021/jf061674h.

2. Nie K. et al. (2025). Association between composite dietary antioxidant index and hyperlipidemia in adults based on the NHANES. Sci Rep. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-86223-4 

3. Suzuki Y. et al (1993). Structural and dynamic membrane properties of alpha-tocopherol and alpha-tocotrienol: implication to the molecular mechanism of their antioxidant potency. Biochemistry. 32(40):10692-9. doi: 10.1021/bi00091a020.

4. Sen C. et al (2000). Molecular basis of vitamin E action. Tocotrienol potently inhibits glutamate-induced pp60(c-Src) kinase activation and death of HT4 neuronal cells. J Biol Chem. 275(17):13049-55. doi: 10.1074/jbc.275.17.13049.

5. Chin S. et al (2011). Tocotrienol rich fraction supplementation improved lipid profile and oxidative status in healthy older adults: A randomized controlled study. Nutr Metab. 8(1):42. doi: 10.1186/1743-7075-8-42..

6. Magosso E. et al (2013). Tocotrienols for normalization of hepatic echogenic response in nonalcoholic fatty liver: a randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Nutr J. 12(1):166. doi: 10.1186/1475-2891-12-166.

7. Yamashita E. et al (2002). Cosmetic benefit of dietary supplements including astaxanthin and tocotrienol on human skin. Food. 6(6), 112-117. https://res.mindbodygreen.com/doc/Yamashita_2002_Food_Style_21_English-Translation.pdf

8. Beoy L. et al (2010). Effects of Tocotrienol Supplementation on Hair Growth in Human Volunteers. Trop Life Sci Res. 21(2):91-99. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3819075/

9. Ortiz-Cerda T. et al (2024). Effects of polyphenolic maqui (Aristotelia chilensis) extract on the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome and activation of mast cells in a mouse model of Crohn’s disease-like colitis. Front Immunol. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1229767

10. Priyono Q. et al (2024). Ethnomedical Potentials, Phytochemicals, and Medicinal Profile of Alpinia galanga L.: A Comprehensive Review. Bio Integration. https://www.scienceopen.com/hosted-document?doi=10.15212/bioi-2024-0032

11. Roberts J. et al (2015). The Photobiology of Lutein and Zeaxanthin in the Eye. Journal of Ophthalmology. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/687173

12. Tominaga K. et al (2017). Protective effects of astaxanthin on skin deterioration. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 61(1):33-39. doi: 10.3164/jcbn.17-35.

13. Brown D. et al (2021). The effect of astaxanthin supplementation on performance and fat oxidation during a 40 km cycling time trial. J Sci Med Sport 24(1):92-97. doi: 10.1016/j.jsams.2020.06.017.

14. Baralic I. et al (2013). Effect of astaxanthin supplementation on paraoxonase 1 activities and oxidative stress status in young soccer players. Phytother Res. 27(10):1536-42. doi: 10.1002/ptr.4898.

15. Wika A. et al (2023). Astaxanthin Reduces Heart Rate and Carbohydrate Oxidation Rates During Exercise in Overweight Individuals. Int J Exerc Sci. 16(2):252-266. doi: 10.70252/FPGA5839.

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