Nectarine Powder
Also known as: Nectarine, stone fruit, Nectarine powder, powdered fruit extract, Prunus persica
Overview
Nectarine powder is a botanical supplement derived from dried and ground nectarines, which are a smooth-skinned variety of peach (Prunus persica). It is characterized by its composition of carbohydrates (~86%), protein (~2%), fiber (~2%), and lipids (~0.25%), along with bioactive phytochemicals such as polyphenols and flavonoids. Primarily, it is recognized for its in vitro antioxidant activity, suggesting a potential role in scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. While its physicochemical and phytochemical profiles have been characterized, clinical evidence supporting specific health benefits in humans is currently limited, with most available research focusing on compositional analysis and in vitro studies rather than randomized controlled trials.
Benefits
Nectarine powder exhibits primary benefits related to its antioxidant activity, as demonstrated by multiple in vitro assays (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, CUPRAC). These assays indicate its potential to scavenge free radicals and mitigate oxidative stress, a key factor in various chronic diseases. The presence of polyphenols, including chlorogenic acid, neochlorogenic acid, quercetin glycosides, and kaempferol, contributes to these antioxidant properties. Broader literature on stone fruits suggests that these compounds may also offer anti-inflammatory and cardiometabolic benefits. However, it is crucial to note that no high-quality randomized controlled trials or meta-analyses specifically on nectarine powder supplementation and clinical outcomes have been conducted. Therefore, population-specific benefits, effect sizes, and clinical significance remain unverified, and the time course of potential benefits is unknown.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for nectarine powder's observed benefits is attributed to its rich content of polyphenolic compounds. These compounds function as antioxidants by neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and modulating oxidative pathways within the body. Beyond direct free radical scavenging, polyphenols may also influence inflammatory pathways and support vascular function, as indicated by research on related stone fruits. The absorption and bioavailability of these beneficial compounds, such as flavonoids and hydroxycinnamic acids, are generally moderate and can be influenced by the food matrix and individual metabolic factors.
Side effects
No specific safety data or adverse effects directly linked to nectarine powder consumption have been identified in the reviewed literature. As a fruit-derived powder, it is generally considered likely safe for consumption in amounts typical of a dietary ingredient. There are no documented reports of common, uncommon, or rare side effects. Furthermore, no known drug interactions or contraindications specific to nectarine powder have been reported. However, it is important to note that specific studies on special populations, such as pregnant or lactating individuals, or children, have not been conducted. Individuals with known allergies to nectarines or peaches should exercise caution.
Dosage
Currently, there are no established dosing guidelines or clinically validated dosages for nectarine powder due to the lack of human clinical trials. Its typical use would be as a food supplement or an ingredient in various food products. The appropriate dose would likely depend on the desired antioxidant activity or the specific polyphenol content of the powder. While absorption of some compounds may be enhanced by co-ingestion with fats or other nutrients, there is no specific data regarding this for nectarine powder. Without clinical research, upper limits and safety thresholds for concentrated forms of nectarine powder remain undefined, and users should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional.
FAQs
Is nectarine powder effective as an antioxidant supplement?
In vitro laboratory assays confirm that nectarine powder possesses antioxidant potential. However, its clinical efficacy in humans as an antioxidant supplement is currently unproven due to a lack of human trials.
Is nectarine powder safe to consume?
As a product derived from fruit, nectarine powder is generally considered likely safe for consumption in typical dietary amounts. No adverse effects have been reported in the limited research available.
How much nectarine powder should I take?
There are no established clinical dosing guidelines for nectarine powder. Its use is typically culinary or as a general food supplement, and specific dosages for health benefits are not yet determined.
Will nectarine powder improve my health outcomes?
While nectarine powder contains beneficial compounds, there is currently no direct evidence from randomized controlled trials or meta-analyses to confirm its ability to improve specific health outcomes in humans.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10806340/ – This peer-reviewed laboratory study characterized the physicochemical properties and in vitro antioxidant activity of Bulgarian nectarine powder. It found high carbohydrate content, moderate protein and fiber, and confirmed antioxidant activity through multiple assays, while also confirming microbiological safety. The study's limitation is its in vitro nature, lacking clinical data.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8306427/ – This analytical chemistry study utilized liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to profile polyphenols in peaches and nectarines. It provided detailed quantification of various flavonoids and hydroxycinnamic acids, establishing strong correlations between these polyphenols and antioxidant capacity. The research focused on chemical composition rather than clinical outcomes.
- https://www.nutricargo.com/nectarine – This source provides general information about nectarine, likely from a commercial or informational perspective. It may cover basic nutritional facts or common uses, but it is not a peer-reviewed scientific study.
- https://cancersupportphiladelphia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Enhancing-Wellness_Dr.Wright_COH2025.pdf – This document appears to be a presentation or handout related to enhancing wellness, possibly from a cancer support organization. While it might mention dietary components, it is unlikely to contain specific research on nectarine powder or be a primary research source.