Oligonol Lychee Fruit Polyphenols Attains Self-Affirmed GRAS Status

Oligonol is a unique, proprietary form of lychee fruit extract with significantly improved bioavailability. For centuries, lychee fruit has been a well-known beauty remedy throughout Asia.

09/04/09 Oligonol Lychee Fruit Polyphenols has attained self-affirmed GRAS status. An independent panel of scientists declared Oligonol GRAS after a comprehensive evaluation of research and toxicology data. Oligonol was found to be safe for use in food products and supplements. Oligonol, which features low-molecular weight polyphenols, is manufactured by Amino Up Chemical Co., Ltd., headquartered in Sapporo, Japan and available in the United States from Maypro.

"We're very excited that Oligonol has achieved GRAS status," said Steve Yamada, president of Maypro Industries. "Food products in Japan ranging from functional drinks to cookies have included Oligonol based on its beneficial properties and we're excited to now offer it to food companies in the United States."

Oligonol is a unique, proprietary form of lychee fruit extract with significantly improved bioavailability. For centuries, lychee fruit has been a well-known beauty remedy throughout Asia. Lychee was the favored fruit among the Tang Dynasty in China where it was utilized by the Emperor and his concubines for longevity and beauty. With a polyphenol concentration second only to strawberry, lychee fruit is a potent antioxidant that has proven beneficial for a number of health conditions. Clinical studies with Oligonol have demonstrated benefits for skin health through improving blood flow to the subdermal layer protecting it from damage caused by UV light and free radicals. Other studies with Oligonol have shown improved cardiovascular function, reduction of visceral fat as well as reduction of exercise fatigue.

Oligonol has been successfully marketed in Japan as a functional ingredient for supplements, cosmetics and food. In 2007, Oligonol was approved as a New Dietary Ingredient by the FDA where it was launched as a nutritional supplement soon after.