Abstract: The present invention provides a novel oxidized protein hydrolase activity enhancing agent. The oxidized protein hydrolase activity enhancing agent of the present invention contains at least one kind of plant extract obtained from a plant selected from the group consisting of water chestnut, stevia, rosemary, thyme, chrysanthemum, savory, mugwort, chestnut, spearmint, marjoram, peppermint, lemon balm, allspice, perilla, basil, and caraway.

Abstract: A stabilized ? cryptoxanthin-containing water being capable of being utilized in food and drink is provided with low cost. The stabilized ? cryptoxanthin-containing water of the present embodiments is a stabilized ? cryptoxanthin-containing water containing: water; ? cryptoxanthin; and vitamin C, wherein the ? cryptoxanthin is stabilized by adding the vitamin C to the water containing the ? cryptoxanthin. The vitamin C has superior safety and is inexpensive, and the ? cryptoxanthin can be stabilized by the vitamin C alone without using in combination with the other stabilizing agent. Therefore, according to the present embodiments, the ? cryptoxanthin in the water can be stabilized with safety and low cost.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a water-soluble dry food containing a plant-origin material as the main ingredient and water-soluble dietary fiber as an additive. The water-soluble dry food of the present invention further contains edible oil. Preferably, as the edible oil, use is made of olive oil, safflower oil, sesame oil or rapeseed oil. Preferably, ashitaba is used as the plant-origin material, whereas indigestible dextrin is used as the water-soluble dietary fiber.