Sauvignon blanc grapes hold a lot more secrets than just being an important ingredient for a well-known wine. Perhaps even the fountain of youth.
Preliminary results of a scientific investigation into an extract made from sauvignon blanc grape seed show it combats protein damage from UV rays on skin.
The AgResearch studylooked at an extract from sauvignon blanc grape seeds, a byproduct from wine production, manufactured by Marlborough-based company New Zealand Extracts.
"We were surprised by how effective the grape seed extracts were at combating protein damage from UV rays on skin," said AgResearch Senior Scientist Dr Jolon Dyer.
"A protective effect was observed right down at the protein level, with mitigation of oxidative damage. This significant discovery is likely to have a huge benefit."
Dr Glenn Vile, general manager of New Zealand Extracts, said scientific validation of the health benefits of their products was a cornerstone of their business.
A previous AgResearch clinical trial on Oxifend® grape seed extract noted an anti-ageing benefits to the skin.
"Marlborough's sauvignon blanc grape seeds contain some of the highest levels of bioactives in the world," said Dr Vile. "The extract has a number of important health benefits ranging from protecting athletes during exercise to providing anti-ageing benefits to the skin."
