Esterified Catechins, Processes for Producing the Same, and Foods and Beverages as well as Cosmetics Containing Such Esterified Catechins

摘要

The present invention provides substances having sufficiently antibacterial activity against heat-resistant spore-forming bacteria that they can be used to improve the shelf life of beverages and processed foods, as well as to control the growth of microorganisms in cosmetics. The present invention provides a catechin ester in which at least one of the hydroxyl groups of a catechin is esterified with a medium-chain fatty acid. This medium-chain fatty acid ester of a catechin, which may be used either alone or as a composition, shows a strong growth suppressing effect on heat-resistant spore-forming bacteria and, if added to foods or beverages, can prevent them from rotting or deterioration and, if added to cosmetics, can prevent their rotting or deterioration.