Chlorogenic Acid: Nature’s Potent Antioxidant | Premium Supplier Spotlight

1. What is Chlorogenic Acid (CGA)?

Chlorogenic Acid (CGA), chemically known as 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid (5-CQA), is a pivotal bioactive polyphenol and ester formed between caffeic acid and quinic acid. Functioning as a major secondary plant metabolite, it acts as a robust antioxidant and plays significant roles in plant defense mechanisms. Its prominence lies in its abundance within specific botanicals and its wide-ranging physiological effects in humans, making it a focal point in nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic research.

2. Product Source, Chemical Properties & Key Identifiers

• Primary Natural Sources: Green coffee beans (Coffea spp.) are the richest natural reservoir, especially before roasting which degrades CGA. Fruit and vegetable Significant quantities are also found in sunflower seeds, artichokes, eucommia bark, apples, pears, berries (like blueberries), potatoes, and tobacco leaves.

• Chemical Properties:

  • Appearance: Typically a white to light yellow crystalline powder.

  • Solubility: Soluble in polar solvents like ethanol, methanol, acetone, and hot water; slightly soluble in cold water; insoluble in non-polar solvents.

  • Stability: Sensitive to heat, light, alkaline conditions, and oxidation. Optimal storage requires cool, dark, dry conditions.

• Key Identifiers:

  • CAS Number: 327-97-9 (common for 5-CQA, the predominant isomer)

  • Molecular Formula (MF): C₁₆H₁₈O₉

  • Molecular Weight (MW): 354.31 g/mol

  • EINECS Number: 206-325-6

    

3. Potency, Health Benefits, Dosage & Safety

• “Best” Source & Highest Concentration: Unroasted green coffee beans (Coffea arabica / Coffea canephora) are unequivocally the richest natural source, typically containing 5-12% chlorogenic acids by dry weight, with 5-CQA being the dominant isomer (often 40-60% of total CGAs). Specialty extracts can concentrate CGA levels significantly higher (e.g., 40%, 50%, 70%+).

• Health Benefits & Physiological Effects:

  • Potent Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals (ROS/RNS), reducing oxidative stress linked to chronic diseases and aging. Modulates Nrf2 pathway.

  • Metabolic Health: Influences glucose metabolism by inhibiting glucose-6-phosphatase and modulating glucose absorption; improves insulin sensitivity. Linked to weight management support.

  • Cardiovascular Support: May help lower blood pressure (ACE inhibition), improve endothelial function, and positively impact lipid profiles.

  • Neuroprotective Potential: Crosses BBB; exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in neural tissues; potential in mitigating neurodegenerative processes.

  • Hepatoprotective Effects: Supports liver health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

  • Anti-inflammatory Action: Modulates NF-κB and other inflammatory signaling pathways.

• Daily Intake: No universally established RDI. Common supplemental doses range from 120mg to 300mg of CGA, often derived from 300mg to 600mg of green coffee bean extract (standardized to 40-50% CGA). Always consult a healthcare provider before starting supplementation.

• Precautions & Side Effects:

  • Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) at typical dietary/supplemental levels.

  • Potential mild side effects: Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea), jitteriness (especially if sensitive to caffeine, though CGA itself is not a stimulant, green coffee extracts contain low caffeine).

  • Important Interactions: May potentiate blood pressure medications (risk of hypotension) and diabetes medications (risk of hypoglycemia). Consult doctor if taking these.

  • Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Safety not fully established; avoid supplementation unless advised by physician.

4. Premium Source: Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd.

As a leader in bioactive compound innovation for 28 years, Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd. stands at the forefront of the natural extract industry. This high-tech enterprise integrates agile R&D, collaborative innovation, precision manufacturing, and global distribution, specializing in the advanced extraction, purification, and application of potent plant constituents.

• Core Expertise: Advanced processing of Natural Plant Extracts, Cosmetic Actives, Nutraceutical & Pharmaceutical Ingredients, Natural Pigments, and Plant-Based Sweeteners.

• Scientific Prowess: 5 university-affiliated joint laboratories foster cutting-edge research. Proprietary methodologies protected by 20+ patents and a globally exclusive compound library ensure technological superiority.

• Unmatched Quality Infrastructure: Investment in HPLC, UPLC, GC-MS, and Superconducting NMR guarantees analytical precision. Our stringent protocols enforce purity standards exceeding industry norms by 20%+.

• Global Supply Chain: Trusted partner providing bespoke ingredient solutions to multinational pharmaceutical corporations, research institutions, and manufacturers across 80+ countries in Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

5. Chlorogenic Acid Benefits: Deep Dive into Health Impacts

Beyond its foundational antioxidant role, CGA exerts multifaceted biological effects:

• Glucose Homeostasis: Inhibits alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase enzymes in the gut, slowing carbohydrate breakdown and glucose absorption. Enhances AMPK activation and GLUT4 translocation in peripheral tissues, improving glucose uptake. Modulates hepatic gluconeogenesis.

• Lipid Metabolism: May reduce hepatic triglyceride synthesis and enhance fatty acid beta-oxidation, contributing to improved lipid profiles.

• Vascular Health: Promotes nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, leading to vasodilation and reduced peripheral resistance. Exhibits anti-atherogenic properties.

• Mitochondrial Biogenesis: Emerging evidence suggests CGA may activate PGC-1α, enhancing mitochondrial function and cellular energy metabolism.

• Gut Microbiota Modulation: Serves as a substrate for beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a healthier microbiome profile and production of bioactive metabolites like butyrate.

6. Chlorogenic Acid: Usage Guidelines

• Timing: Often taken 30-60 minutes before main meals to modulate glucose and fat absorption.

• Bioavailability Enhancement: Combining with piperine (black pepper extract) may improve absorption, although research is ongoing. Formulations utilizing phospholipids or cyclodextrins are also explored.

• Synergistic Formulations: Frequently combined with other bioactive compounds like chromium picolinate, berberine, or gymnema sylvestre for enhanced metabolic support.

7. Chlorogenic Acid Product Specifications (Exemplary)

Shaanxi Zhonghong adheres to the strictest international quality standards for Chlorogenic Acid.

Note: Specifications are subject to customization per customer requirements and regulatory jurisdiction (FDA, EFSA, JP, etc.).

8. Advanced Production Process

Shaanxi Zhonghong employs a sophisticated, vertically integrated production chain:

1. Sourcing: Global procurement of premium, non-GMO green coffee beans.

2. Pre-treatment: Cleaning, milling, and defatting (using supercritical CO₂ or food-grade solvents).

3. Extraction: Multi-stage counter-current extraction using hydro-ethanolic solutions under optimized temperature/pH control. Alternative methods include ultrasonic or microwave-assisted extraction (UAE/MAE).

4. Primary Purification: Macroporous resin adsorption/desorption for gross impurity removal and initial concentration.

5. High-Resolution Chromatography: Proprietary preparative HPLC or simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatography for precise isolation of 5-CQA and other isomers, achieving ultra-high purity (>98%).

6. Concentration: Low-temperature vacuum evaporation.

7. Crystallization & Isolation: Controlled crystallization processes.

8. Drying: Lyophilization (freeze-drying) or gentle spray drying to preserve stability.

9. Blending & Standardization: Precise adjustment to guaranteed potency specifications.

9. Diverse Application Scenarios

• Nutraceuticals & Dietary Supplements: Weight management formulas, blood sugar support complexes, antioxidant blends, energy/metabolism boosters (capsules, tablets, powders).

• Functional Foods & Beverages: Fortified juices, energy drinks, sports nutrition bars, healthy snacks, baked goods (requires stability solutions).

• Cosmeceuticals: Anti-aging serums/creams (combats oxidative stress & photoaging), brightening products (inhibits tyrosinase), soothing lotions (anti-inflammatory).

• Pharmaceuticals: Research into formulations for metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular support, and neuroprotection.

• Animal Nutrition: Pet health supplements, livestock performance enhancers (antioxidant support).

10. Rigorous Quality Control (QC)

Quality is paramount at Shaanxi Zhonghong. Our QC system implements cGMP and ISO standards:

• Incoming Raw Material Inspection: Full identity, purity, and contaminant testing against strict specifications.

• In-Process Controls (IPC): Real-time monitoring of critical parameters (pH, temp, concentration, solvent residues) at every production stage using validated methods.

• Stability Studies: Accelerated and long-term stability testing (ICH Q1A(R2)) to determine shelf-life and optimal storage conditions.

• Advanced Analytical Testing: State-of-the-art instrumentation (HPLC-DAD/ELSD/CAD, UPLC-QTOF-MS, GC-MS, ICP-MS, NMR) for comprehensive characterization (assay, impurities, isomers), heavy metals, pesticide residues, and microbiological safety.

• Method Validation: All analytical methods undergo full validation per ICH Q2(R1) guidelines (specificity, accuracy, precision, linearity, range, LOD/LOQ, robustness).

• Traceability & Documentation: Full batch traceability from raw material to finished product. Comprehensive documentation ensuring data integrity (ALCOA+ principles).

• Third-Party Verification: Regular audits and collaborative testing with accredited independent laboratories.

11. Secure Packaging & Global Logistics

• Primary Packaging: Food-grade polyethylene liners within multi-wall kraft paper bags (25kg). Options include vacuum-sealed foil bags (1kg, 5kg) or HDPE drums for enhanced moisture/oxygen barrier.

• Secondary Packaging: Robust corrugated export cartons or fiber drums.

• Storage: Strictly in a cool (<25°C), dry (RH<60%), dark, well-ventilated warehouse.

• Logistics: Expertise in global shipping via air, sea, or land freight. Comprehensive documentation (CoA, CoC, MSDS, Certificate of Origin). Compliance with international regulations (REACH, FDA, FSSAI, etc.). Temperature-controlled options available.

12. Research Frontiers & Innovation

• Health Mechanisms: Elucidating precise molecular targets (e.g., specific kinases, transcription factors), epigenetic effects, and interactions with the gut-brain axis.

• Bioavailability Enhancement: Developing novel delivery systems: phospholipid complexes, cyclodextrin inclusion complexes, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), nanoemulsions, self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS).

• Clinical Applications: Robust human trials exploring efficacy in NAFLD, neurodegenerative disorders, and as an adjuvant therapy in metabolic diseases.

• Synthetic Biology: Exploring microbial production pathways (e.g., engineered E. coli, S. cerevisiae) for sustainable, high-yield CGA production.

• New Isomers & Derivatives: Investigating the bioactivity and applications of less common CGA isomers and semi-synthetic derivatives.

13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: Is Chlorogenic Acid the same as Green Coffee Bean Extract?

  • A: No. Green Coffee Bean Extract (GCBE) contains Chlorogenic Acids (CGAs), primarily 5-CQA. CGA is the specific active compound, while GCBE is the source extract standardized to a certain CGA percentage (e.g., 45%, 50%).

• Q: Does Chlorogenic Acid contain caffeine?

  • A: Pure Chlorogenic Acid powder (like ours, >98%) contains virtually no caffeine. However, green coffee bean extracts standardized to CGA will contain low levels of caffeine (typically 1-4% or less).

• Q: What’s the best time to take Chlorogenic Acid?

  • A: For metabolic/glucose benefits, taking it 30-60 minutes before meals is commonly recommended. For general antioxidant support, timing is less critical.

• Q: Are there any major drug interactions?

  • A: Yes. Exercise caution if taking blood pressure medication (risk of additive hypotension) or diabetes medication (risk of additive hypoglycemia). Always consult your doctor before use.

• Q: What is the typical shelf life?

  • A: When stored properly (cool, dry, dark place in sealed containers), high-purity CGA powder typically has a shelf life of 24-36 months.

• Q: Is your Chlorogenic Acid suitable for vegan/vegetarian products?

  • A: Yes, our Chlorogenic Acid is 100% plant-derived and suitable for vegan and vegetarian formulations.

14. Where to Buy Premium Chlorogenic Acid?

Source high-purity, reliably manufactured Chlorogenic Acid (5-CQA) directly from the expert:

• Contact: Mr. Liao Daohai

• Email: liaodaohai@gmail.com

• Website: https://www.aiherba.com (Explore our full catalog of premium botanical extracts)

• Inquire Today: Request a comprehensive Certificate of Analysis (CoA), technical dossier, and competitive quotation for your specific application needs (research, nutraceutical, cosmetic, food).

15. Conclusion

Chlorogenic Acid (5-CQA) stands as a scientifically validated, multi-functional phytochemical with profound antioxidant, metabolic, and health-promoting properties. Its applications span nutraceuticals, functional foods, advanced cosmetics, and pharmaceutical research. Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd. leverages 28 years of expertise, cutting-edge technology (patented chromatography, HPLC/SMB purification), and uncompromising quality control (purity >98%, contaminants below stringent limits) to deliver premium-grade Chlorogenic Acid to the global market. Backed by university partnerships, a vast compound library, and a worldwide distribution network, we provide tailored, reliable solutions for industry leaders seeking the finest bioactive ingredients. Partner with us for your Chlorogenic Acid requirements.

16. References

1. Clifford, M. N. (1999). Chlorogenic acids and other cinnamates – nature, occurrence and dietary burden. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 79(3), 362-372.

2. Tajik, N., Tajik, M., Mack, I., & Enck, P. (2017). The potential effects of chlorogenic acid, the main phenolic components in coffee, on health: a comprehensive review of the literature. European Journal of Nutrition, 56(7), 2215-2244.

3. Meng, S., et al. (2013). Roles of chlorogenic Acid on regulating glucose and lipids metabolism: a review. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013.

4. European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). (2011). Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to chlorogenic acids from green coffee… EFSA Journal, 9(4), 2034.

5. International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) Guidelines: Q1A(R2) Stability Testing, Q2(R1) Validation of Analytical Procedures.

6. United States Pharmacopeia (USP) General Chapters: <61> Microbiological Examination, <62> Microbiological Tests, <731> Loss on Drying, <781> Optical Rotation, <281> Residue on Ignition.

7. ISO Standards (e.g., ISO 17025 for laboratory competence, ISO 22000 for food safety management). Specific methods (e.g., ISO methods for pesticides, heavy metals). (Note: Specific method numbers depend on the analyte).