More than just a trend: the potential benefits of cider

Those of you who struggle to get through their five-a-day will be delighted to hear that a pint of cider may have the same health benefits as eating an apple a day

Researchers at the University of Glasgow have discovered that English cider apples have high levels of phenolics and are looking into whether these antioxidants, which are said to ward off strokes, heart disease and cancer, can be passed onto cider drinkers.

Scientists, led by Sernea Marks, have found that phenolic levels vary according to the type of apple or cider tested. These variations are thought to be due to a series of factors including the age of the fruit, light exposure, growing region and storage conditions.

The next stage of the research is to analyze how human beings absorb these phenolics. Over the next few weeks, 12 volunteers will each drink a pint of cider in a controlled environment while avoiding all other dietary sources of antioxidants.
Marks hopes that the research findings may allow cider production methods to be adapted so that phenolic levels remain high, even after fermentation. The research is part of a project funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and the National Association of Cider Makers.

© db 24th August 2006