About
Pomegranate extract is a concentrated, polyphenol-rich powder derived from the whole fruit of Punica granatum L., typically containing ≥50% total polyphenols including punicalagins. It is used as a functional food ingredient and nutraceutical for its antioxidant properties in dairy products, beverages, and confectionery.
Safety summary
No adverse events were reported in human studies with orally administered whole fruit pomegranate extract, and no treatment-related adverse effects were observed at the highest doses in subchronic animal studies. Allergic reactions to pomegranate are rare and it is not classified as a major allergen. The ingredient is not intended for use in infant formula or foods for infants and young children, and typical dietary exposure is estimated at 60–130 mg/person/day at mean to 90th percentile in the US population aged 2 and older.
Regulatory landscape
| Jurisdiction | Status | Note |
|---|---|---|
| EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) (European Union) | Approved | Pomegranate extract does not carry a dedicated E-number as a food additive. It may be used as a food ingredient or novel food in the EU under applicable regulations (Regulation (EU) 2015/2283 for novel foods); no specific EFSA opinion restricting or banning it for general use has been identified. Use for specific health claims requires EFSA authorisation.source |
| FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) (India) | Approved | Fruits and vegetables listed in Indian Food Composition Tables (NIN/ICMR) may be used as processed ingredients including extracts in supplements or nutraceuticals per FSSAI Health Supplement Regulations 2017. Specific health benefit claims require prior FSSAI approval. Pomegranate infusion (a related form) received product-level approval under FSS (NSF & FI) Reg. 2017.source |
| FDA (Food and Drug Administration) (United States) | Approved | GRAS Notice GRN 001064 filed by Verdure Sciences; approved for use in dairy products, non-alcoholic beverages, and chocolate candy at 50 mg per serving. Not intended for infant formula, foods for infants/young children, or USDA-regulated meat and poultry products.source |
Who should approach with care
Research citations
- 1EFSA. Food Additives – EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings (FAF) Overview. efsa.europa.eu
- 2FDA. GRAS Notice No. GRN 001064 – Whole Fruit Pomegranate Extract (Verdure Sciences / Pomella®), 2023. fda.gov
- 3FSSAI. List of Product(s)/Ingredient(s) Applications Approved under FSS (NSF & FI) Regulations, 2017 – FSSAI Product Approval List, 2022. fssai.gov.in
- 4FDA. Pomella® Pomegranate Extract GRAS Notification – Verdure Sciences Submission Dossier, 2022. fda.gov
- 5FSSAI. Implementation of Health Supplements and Nutraceuticals Regulations – FSSAI Advisory (2017/2018), 2018. fssai.gov.in
