OPC Grape Seed Extract
OPCs (Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins) are a group of substances belonging to the flavonols, which consist of polymers of catechins and epicatechins. Proanthocyanidins are the most powerful antioxidants in nature and are several times more powerful than other nutritional antioxidants such as vitamins C and E.
The various proanthocynidins are categorised by their number of units (e.g. monomer for one unit, dimer for two). The exact definition of OPC is unclear and may include only di- to tetramers, di- to pentamers, di- to hexamers, or even all proanthocyanidins except monomers.
For a long time, the only oligomeric proanthocyanidins that were considered to be bioactive were di- to pentamers, i.e. oligomers consisting of 2-5 subunits, due to their ability to be taken up by the blood. However, new studies show that polymeric proanthocyanidins (those comprising 7 or more units) are partially broken down during digestion and have a highly beneficial effect on intestinal flora and the immune system. Consequently, OPC should be considered an active complex in which all components contribute towards its overall effect.
HPLC-guaranteed Pure OPC Content
In addition to ensuring the greatest possible purity of our products, we strive to have the highest possible OPC content for our raw materials in order to ensure a sufficient dose of active ingredients. Our grape seed extract derived from Spanish white grapes has a total polyphenol content corresponding to at least 95%. The total polyphenol content is, however, not to be confused with the actual OPC content of a product. Information regarding the OPC content of our product was ascertained via an HPLC laboratory test (the most reliable measuring method) on mono-, di-, tri-, tetra-, penta-, and polymers,that was conducted by the Technical University of Braunschweig. Excluding the monomers which do not belong to the OPCs, the pure OPC content is estimated at 77.5%. According to a stricter definition including only di- to pentamers, this percentage is 12.7%.
Optimised Extraction Process Without Chemical Additives
OPC extracts can be produced using controversial solvents such as n-hexane, acetone, and methanol. However, we utilise the purest possible extraction methods, using only water and edible ethanol, thereby avoiding the potential for harmful chemical residues.
High Quality Standards
This product was produced according to the highest quality and purity standards in an HAACP-certified facility in the EU. Our in-house production site in the EU allows us to completely avoid the use of chemical additives such as magnesium stearate. This product is gluten-, fructose-, and lactose-free, non-GMO, and vegan, and is produced without additives.