9/13/2016
3
Background on the Analyte (continued)
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Cranberries containing proanthocyanidins are typically not consumed “as is” due
to their naturally low sugar content and high acid content, compared to common
fruits such as apples and grapes, and instead are used in a wide variety or ways
or products such as beverages, sauces and relishes, dried cranberries, snacks,
ingredients (juice concentrate, dried powders, extracts) and dietary supplements
▪
In addition to urinary tract health, proanthocyanidins contribute to the antioxidant
activity exhibited by cranberry and other fruits rich in polyphenolic compounds
Significance (or implications)
▪
Companies want to market products (foods, dietary supplements, medical foods
and botanical drugs) that can be formulated to deliver effective and consistent
concentrations of proanthocyanidins to consumers
▪
Need to standardize products used by researchers for clinical studies
▪
Companies need to evaluate the impact of processing on and the shelf-life of
proanthocyanidins in various products