Ergothioneine (EGT) is a rare natural amino acid discovered by a French scientist in the ergot fungus in 1909. This substance can be found in foods such as mushrooms, black beans, and oats, and is particularly abundant in edible fungi like shiitake and cow's liver fungus.
Powerful efficacy
Melatonin possesses outstanding antioxidant capabilities. Its efficiency in eliminating free radicals is 6,000 times that of vitamin E and 40 times that of coenzyme Q10. This characteristic has made it highly regarded in the field of anti-aging.
In addition to its antioxidant properties, ergothioneine can also protect mitochondrial function, enhance cellular energy metabolism, and has positive effects on alleviating fatigue and improving sleep quality. Research has also found that it has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, which may be helpful in delaying cognitive decline.
Application forms
With the advancement of synthetic biology technology, the production cost of ergothioneine has significantly decreased, which has promoted its application in the fields of food and health products. Currently, the main product forms include:
Oral capsules: The most common form of supplementation, often combined with other ingredients to enhance the effect.
Functional beverages: Combined with various beneficial ingredients, they are convenient for daily consumption.
Composite product: When combined with other antioxidant components, it offers comprehensive protection.
Market Prospects
The market for ergothioneine has witnessed an explosive growth in recent years. In 2024, the sales of related products on Tmall International increased by 6000% compared to the previous year. It is estimated that by 2031, the global market size of ergothioneine raw materials will reach 161 million US dollars.
The target consumer group is mainly composed of women aged 20 to 45, with the 25-35 age group accounting for the largest proportion. Among the online sales channels, Tmall accounts for 45%, Douyin for 35%, and JD for 15%.
Recommendations for Selection
When consumers choose ergothioneine products, they should pay attention to:
Pay attention to the purity of the product and the content of active ingredients.
Understand the technical capabilities of the manufacturing enterprises
Check whether the component combination is scientifically reasonable.
View the price rationally. A very low price might indicate insufficient content.
Currently, ergothioneine has not been approved as a new food ingredient in China. Products in the domestic market are mainly sold through cross-border e-commerce channels. With the continuous advancement of technology and the gradual improvement of regulations, this "antioxidant gold" is expected to bring health benefits to more people and become an important part of the health industry.
