Abstract: A method used for synthesizing intermediates for use in the synthesis of carotenoids and carotenoid analogs, and/or carotenoid derivatives. In some embodiments, the invention includes methods for synthesizing optically active intermediates useful for the synthesis of optically active carotenoids. Synthesis of optically active carotenoids, in one embodiment, may be accomplished by forming an optically active dihydroxy intermediate from ketoisopherone. The optically active dihydroxy intermediate may be converted into optically active zeaxanthin.

Abstract: A process is provided for making (?)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) by subjecting a green tea extract to chromatography on a macroporous polar resin, eluting EGCG from the resin with a polar elution solvent, optionally concentrating the eluate, optionally regenerating the resin by desorbing the remaining catechins, and optionally concentrating the desorbed catechins.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a phytosterol and/or a phytostanol ester compound produced from the reaction of a phytosterol and/or a phytostanol with a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), wherein the polyunsaturated fatty acid has from 18 to 22 carbon atoms and at least three carbon-carbon double bonds. Processes for producing and compositions and a process for using such compositions are also provided.

Abstract: A process for the manufacture of (all-rac)-?-tocopherol comprises submitting isolated, purified phytyltrimethylhydroquinone to acid catalysis, thereby promoting ring closure to (all-rac)-?-t-tocopherol. The process can be conducted in the absence or presence of an added solvent, and when a solvent or solvent mixture is used the solvent or at least one solvent component of the solvent mixture is preferably one with a dipole moment greater than 9×10+C-m (or 2.7 D). The nature of the catalyst is immaterial, but the catalyst is preferably sulphuric acid, phosphoric acid, a polyperfluoroalkylenesulphonic acid, a “NH-acid”, a heteropoly acid, zinc chloride, boron trifluoride, aluminium trichloride, or a mixture of any f the aforementioned Brönsted acids with any of the aforementioned Lewis acids. The product of the process is the most active an industrially most important member of the vitamin E group.