Abstract: Subject of the invention is a method for enantioselective production of an isoflavane from an isoflavone, comprising the steps: (a) selectively reducing the isoflavone, such that the 4-keto group of the isoflavone is converted to a 4-hydroxy group, and the 2,3-double bond of the isoflavone is converted to a 2,3-single bond, thereby obtaining a 4-hydroxy intermediate, and (b) reacting the 4-hydroxy intermediate with a chiral reagent, such that a chiral group is covalently attached to the C4-position of the 4-hydroxy intermediate, thereby obtaining a chiral intermediate. The invention also relates to intermediates of formulae (IV), (V), (VI) and (VII) obtainable in the inventive process.

Abstract: Subject of the invention is a test strip for the detection of equol by a color change. Subject of the invention are also methods for producing the test strip, methods for using the test strip, and uses of the test strip.