Exploring Two Newly Approved Plant Polyphenol Ingredients for Food and Beverage Innovation

Hubei Shengmei Kang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. | Enshi, China

China’s food ingredient landscape is opening new opportunities for plant-based innovation. In 2026, Cyclocarya paliurus leaf polyphenols and Nekemias grossedentata leaf polyphenols, commonly known as vine tea polyphenols, were approved as new food raw materials in China.

For food and beverage developers, these ingredients offer new options to explore in product formulation. At Hubei Shengmei Kang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., we are developing both materials for qualified food ingredient applications and welcome communication with companies interested in evaluating them.

Two plant sources from Enshi

Cyclocarya paliurus leaf polyphenols are derived from the leaves of Cyclocarya paliurus. The approved material is produced through hot-water extraction, filtration, concentration, and drying.

Nekemias grossedentata leaf polyphenols, also known as vine tea polyphenols, are derived from the leaves of Nekemias grossedentata—formerly known by the botanical name Ampelopsis grossedentata. The approved material is produced through ethanol extraction, decolorization, concentration, filtration, and drying.

Both plants are associated with the Enshi region, where our company is based. We are working to develop a reliable supply of these ingredients for food industry partners.

China’s regulatory progress

The National Health Commission of China approved both ingredients as new food raw materials in 2026. The announcement specifies the permitted food categories, product requirements, recommended daily intake limits, and other conditions for use.

These conditions vary by ingredient and food category. Product developers should review the official requirements and assess each proposed formulation accordingly. The approval does not mean that the ingredients can be used without limits or in every type of food.

Working with food and beverage developers

We welcome food manufacturers, beverage companies, product developers, and research teams to discuss potential applications. Depending on the project, the ingredients may be evaluated in beverage and dairy formulations, as well as other food categories permitted under the applicable requirements.

Our team is open to technical discussions on product specifications, formulation goals, testing plans, and quality documentation. Samples can be provided to qualified partners for laboratory testing and application evaluation, subject to project needs and sample arrangements.

Let’s explore an application together

If your team is interested in these ingredients, we would be glad to learn more about your product concept and evaluation plan. We welcome early-stage discussions and will work with partners to support a practical assessment of ingredient suitability.

Have you started exploring Cyclocarya paliurus leaf polyphenols or vine tea polyphenols for a food or beverage project? Contact Hubei Shengmei Kang to discuss your application and sample requirements.