The Rising Popularity of the 'Longevity Vitamin' - Ergothioneine


In this era characterized by a pursuit of self-improvement, health optimization, and the enhancement of beauty, a compound known as ergothioneine, often referred to as the "longevity vitamin," is gaining substantial traction in both China's and the global raw materials market. According to statistics and projections from QYR (QYResearch）, the global market sales of ergothioneine reached 463 million yuan (approximately 63.52 million US dollars) in 2022, with an estimated growth to 893 million yuan (approximately 134 million US dollars）by 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.46% (2023-2029). Notably, the exceptional antioxidant attributes of ergothioneine have positioned it as a sought-after ingredient in the realm of high-end skincare products.

Beyond its role in skincare, ergothioneine has captured significant interest in the functional food sector due to its robust biological activity. Ergothioneine safeguards our cells against damage and anti-oxidation. Bruce Ames, an esteemed Honorary Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of California, Berkeley, even refers to it as the "longevity vitamin.

What is ergothioneine?

Ergothioneine, also known as EGT, is a rare sulfur-containing amino acid. Discovered by Charles Tanret in 1909 while researching ergot fungus, it was named ergothioneine [1]. Subsequently, it was found to be widely present in various organs of animals, including blood, liver, kidneys, brain, and skin. It serves as a natural cellular protector and antioxidant in the human body, exhibiting potent antioxidant activity, cell protection, and anti-inflammatory properties. It can eliminate free radicals, protect DNA, mitigate oxidative damage, and maintain normal cell growth.

The antioxidant capacity of ergothioneine is beyond your imagination!

In 1911, Barger and Ewins successfully elucidated the structure of ergothioneine. It is a substance capable of tautomeric isomerization between thiol and thione forms. Under physiological pH, the thione tautomeric form predominates, giving ergothioneine extremely potent and stable antioxidant capabilities. Research indicates that the antioxidant efficacy of EGT is 7,000 times higher than that of vitamin E [2], and its removal rate of peroxides is higher than coenzyme Q10 [3]. Ergothioneine is currently the only known compound that can enter mitochondria through the transport protein OCTN-1, functioning as a super antioxidant to clear free radicals and protect mitochondria.

Ergothioneine is incredible and powerful. How can we obtain it?

Pleurotus citrinopileatus Singer: Natural Depository of Ergothioneine

When discussing how to obtain ergothioneine, one cannot overlook its natural source — the Pleurotus citrinopileatus Singer. Ergothioneine plays a crucial role in human health, and it can only be synthesized by microorganisms such as edible fungi, blue-green algae, mycobacterium, and non-yeast fungi. Humans and other species cannot synthesize ergothioneine and must obtain it through dietary intake. While ergothioneine is found in a variety of foods, most contain only trace amounts. Edible fungi have the highest ergothioneine content, with significant variations based on the region of growth. Among them, Pleurotus citrinopileatus Singer is one of the highest sources of ergothioneine [4].

Pleurotus citrinopileatus Singer, is a relatively rare edible mushroom primarily found in Japan's Hokkaido and China's northeastern regions. Its exquisite taste and unique aroma make it widely used in the food industry. Due to its short harvesting season, this rare mushroom holds significant value. It is an ideal health food for elderly individuals with cardiovascular diseases and obesity. In recent years, with the popularity of Pleurotus citrinopileatus Singer in Japan and increased consumer awareness of ergothioneine's activity, the demand for ergothioneine sourced from these mushrooms has been steadily rising in the Japanese market.

Pleurotus citrinopileatus Singer is nutritionally rich, containing not only ergothioneine but also proteins, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and polysaccharides. Their amino acid content is particularly abundant, making them a highly nutritious, low-calorie food. Prolonged consumption can reduce blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels.

After delving into the rich nutritional value and diverse applications of Pleurotus citrinopileatus Singer, let's explore their use in products. This precious fungus not only delights our palates but also serves as a "secret weapon" in various products, infusing them with a high concentration of ergothioneine and providing meticulous care for our bodies.

In the markets, functional foods containing ergothioneine have garnered high praise from consumers. These products primarily tout benefits such as anti-aging and beauty enhancement, improved cognitive function, and memory enhancement.

Reference：

[1] Tanret MC. Sur une base nouvelle retiree du siegle ergote, l’ ergothioneine. Compt Rende 1909; 49: 22–224.

[2] Beelman et al. USE OF ERGOTHIONEINE AS A PRESERVATIVE IN FOODS AND BEVERAGES. United States, Patent Application Publication.

[3] Dong, K. K. , Damaghi, N. , Kibitel, J. , Canning, M. T. , & Yarosh, D. B. . (2010). A comparison of the relative antioxidant potency of l-ergothioneine and idebenone. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 6(3), 183-188.

[4] 周波. "麦角硫因的营养学研究概述." 沈阳医学院学报 23.3(2021):5.