Green Tea Extract From Tea Leaves

Green tea extract is a concentrated form of compounds found in green tea leaves. It is produced by extracting beneficial compounds from dried green tea leaves using water or solvents. The extract is then concentrated and dried to create a powder or liquid.

Manufacturers add green tea extract for its antioxidant properties and to impart a green tea flavor. It is often found in beverages like iced tea, energy drinks, and flavored waters. It can also be used in some supplements and functional foods.

Green tea extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. It is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG, which have been studied for potential health benefits. Regulatory bodies like EFSA have evaluated green tea extracts, noting their antioxidant capacity. While generally considered safe, very high doses of concentrated green tea extract have been linked to liver issues in rare cases, though this is not typically seen with consumption from foods and beverages.