NEWS

26 June 2009

Oxanti is a new antioxidant-rich dark chocolate from Belcolade, which delivers higher and longer-lasting antioxidant levels than standard chocolate and its antioxidant power remains effective for longer. Also in taste tests against other antioxidant chocolate in the market, 2 out of 3 consumers expressed a clear preference for Oxanti*.

It is made using a patent-pending conching process that preserves the maximum amount of the cocoa bean's antioxidant content, which would otherwise be destroyed by the heat and rigours of conventional processing.

This means that the high level of antioxidants in Oxanti comes entirely from the cocoa beans used. No additives or cocoa powder are added to the recipe. Oxanti dark chocolate contains 65% cocoa and is made using only single origin Ecuadorian beans.

The new conching process has also been specifically designed to help develop Oxanti's taste profile, to meet the demands of today's consumers for healthier, better quality food, and deliver the taste which they prefer.

Additionally, Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity testing (the definitive measure of a food's antioxidant activity) shows that Oxanti possesses far higher antioxidant activity than other well-known antioxidant-rich foods such as standard dark chocolate, red wine and green tea.

Tests also show that the antioxidants in Oxanti remain active for longer. An independent clinical study found that with standard chocolate there is no antioxidant activity remaining in the body 5 hours after consumption, whereas the antioxidants in Oxanti are still fully active†.

 Scientific studies have shown that antioxidants are powerful molecules that protect against cancer, heart disease, degenerative illnesses and the effects of ageing. Studies have also shown that flavanols, the antioxidants present in cocoa, are efficient in helping to reduce the risk of cardio vascular disease by improving blood vessel function. Cocoa flavanols are also effective reducing blood pressure and glycemic blood concentration, as well as staving off fatigue.

Although the body produces its own antioxidants, their effectiveness, type and quantity is insufficient to fully protect against stress and illness. A diet complemented with antioxidants can help to top up our defences and keep us in good health.

For more information visit www.oxanti.com

* Puratos Sensobus consumer panel. N=289, Bruges, Belgium. March 2009
† Food & Nutrition Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy. October 2008 - February 2009.