Ferulic acid: extraction, estimation, bioactivity and applications for human health and food

Kumar M., Kaushik D., Shubham S., Kumar A., Kumar V., Oz E., ...More

Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, vol.105, no.8, pp.4168-4177, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Review
  • Volume: 105 Issue: 8
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1002/jsfa.13931
  • Journal Name: Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, Periodicals Index Online, Aerospace Database, Agricultural & Environmental Science Database, Analytical Abstracts, Aquatic Science & Fisheries Abstracts (ASFA), BIOSIS, CAB Abstracts, Chemical Abstracts Core, Communication Abstracts, Food Science & Technology Abstracts, INSPEC, Metadex, Pollution Abstracts, Veterinary Science Database, DIALNET, Civil Engineering Abstracts
  • Page Numbers: pp.4168-4177
  • Keywords: anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, antifibrosis, antioxidant, bioactive component, ferulic acid
  • Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Ferulic acid ((E)-3-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-phenyl) prop-2-enoic acid) is a derivative of caffeic acid found in most plants. This abundant phenolic compound exhibits significant antioxidant capacity and a broad spectrum of therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic, cardiovascular and neuroprotective activities. It is absorbed more quickly by the body and stays in the bloodstream for a longer period compared with other phenolic acids. It is widely used in the food (namely whole grains, fruits, vegetables and coffee), pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries. The current review highlights ferulic acid and its pharmacological activities, reported mechanisms of action, food applications (food preservative, food additive, food processing, food supplements and in food packaging in the form of edible films) and role in human health. In the future, the demand for ferulic acid in the food and pharmaceutical industries will increase. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.