The Top 100 Foods High In Polyphenols

Polyphenols are bioactive compounds that we can find in a wide range of plant-based foods.

If you ever wanted to know which foods have the most polyphenols, then you now can.

Recently, researchers compiled a database of foods high in polyphenols.

According to their research, here are the results of the top 100 dietary sources alongside a brief summary of each food (1).

1. Cloves (15,188 mg per 100g)

A Picture of Polyphenol-rich Cloves.

Cloves represent the highest dietary food source of polyphenols in the world.

Appearance wise, cloves look like little brown wooden sticks and they don’t appear particularly appetizing.

However, cloves pack a powerful punch in the health—and taste—department.

In fact, their taste is as confusing as it is strong, and features contrasting warm, spicy, bitter, and even slightly sweet flavors.

2. Dried Peppermint (11,960 mg per 100g)

In second place comes dried peppermint.

You may not know this, but peppermint is actually a hybrid of spearmint and watermint.

This popular herb is popular throughout the world, and it contains scores of phenolic acids, flavones, and flavanones (2).

People enjoy peppermint in all kind of ways, and we can find its strong flavor in everything from chewing gum to herbal tea.

Due to its strong scent, it is also common to find in personal hygiene products such as shampoo and toothpaste.

3. Star Anise (5,460 mg per 100g)

There’s quite a large gap between the first two foods and star anise, but this spice still contains a very large amount of polyphenols.

Star anise contains phenolic acids and a group of compounds known as hydroxyphenylpropenes (3).

You may also know star anise by its popular alternate name of ‘aniseed’.

Star anise tea is a popular way of consuming the spice and we can also find it in various candy/sweets.

Interestingly, star anise has a slight licorice flavor—a sweet and spicy taste—and its one that many people enjoy.

4. Cocoa Powder (3.448 mg per 100g)

Although it isn’t higher in absolute polyphenols, the larger typical serving size of cocoa makes it the biggest dietary source so far.

Cocoa contains a whole host of polyphenolic compounds which include flavonoid, phenolic acid, and other groups (4).

Interestingly, controlled trials suggest that the compounds in cocoa may potentially help to protect against age-related diseases such as cardiovascular heart disease and dementia. This may be due to the polyphenols having a positive impact on blood pressure and insulin sensitivity (5, 6).

Cocoa has an incredibly bitter taste, so people tend to consume it with sugar.

5. Mexican Oregano (2,319 mg per 100g)

Picture of Mexican Oregano Herb on a White Surface.

Oregano is a delicious herb that boosts the flavor of any dish.

It’s also one of the best food sources of polyphenols, and it offers a variety of flavanones, flavones, and flavonols (7).

However, there are some differences between Mediterranean and Mexican oregano, which are actually slightly different botanically.

Firstly, oregano hailing from Mexico has a robust, deep and fuller taste, and a slightly citrusy flavor.

Mediterranean varieties, although different from country to country, tend to have a milder taste.

6. Celery Seed (2.094 mg per 100g)

Celery seed has a long history of use for its purported health properties.

First of all, celery seed is full of flavonoids. Current research from animal studies also suggests that it may have anti-inflammatory and blood-pressure-lowering properties (8, 9).

However, little research is available from human studies at this time.

People tend to consume these seeds in the form of celery seed tea, and it is also available in a supplement form.

It’s also possible to eat the seeds raw, but they are not particularly tasty.

7. Black Chokeberry (1,756 mg per 100g)

The black chokeberry represents the first fruit—or even the first non-spice/herb—on this list.

These berries are incredibly high in polyphenols, and they are full of compounds called anthocyanins (10).

Anthocyanins are common in blue to dark purple/black plant foods, and they are what give blueberries, blackberries, and black chokeberries their color.

For those with a sweet tooth, it might be better to steer clear of this one. Black chokeberries have a very bitter taste.

8. Dark Chocolate (1,664 mg per 100g)

Dark chocolate is certainly the tastiest food so far, and it’s extremely rich in polyphenols too.

Containing the same compounds as cocoa, dark chocolate may also provide many of the same potential benefits.

While cocoa use dates back to the pre-Olmec people of Mexico, the modern adaptation into chocolate bars didn’t happen until the mid-19th century.

One thing to watch out for, though: not all dark chocolate is created equally.

Look for a minimum of 70% cocoa (preferably 85% +) for the full benefits; more polyphenols, and less sugar.

9. Flaxseed Meal (1,528 mg per 100g)

Fllaxseed Meal in a Serving Size Scoop Spoon.

Flaxseed meal simply refers to ground flaxseeds.

These seeds are full of fiber, and they are particularly high in the nutrients thiamin, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, and copper (11).

Their phytonutrient count doesn’t disappoint either, and flax seeds offer a wealth of lignans and phenolic acids (12).

Flaxseeds have a certain nutty taste about them, and although you can eat them whole, they are not particularly tasty.

As a result, people usually mix them into drinks or meals.

10. Black Elderberries (1,359 mg per 100g)

With a long and ancient history, black elderberries scrape into the top 10 polyphenol foods.

These little black berries grow around the world and are most common in the United States and Europe.

With a substantial anthocyanin and flavonol content, black elderberries have an incredibly tart and bitter taste to them (13).

From personal experience, it can be quite difficult to eat them, which is why most people use them for various recipes.

Elderberries are versatile, and people enjoy making them into jelly, wine, tea, syrup, and even elderberry pie.

11. Chestnut (1,215 mg per 100g)

Warm chestnuts on a cold winter day taste delicious.

They also offer quite a few nutritional benefits too. For example, chestnuts are high in gallic and ellagic acids, which are both types of phenolic acids (14).

Although it is technically a nut, don’t expect chestnuts to taste anything like the rest of their family.

In fact, chestnuts taste somewhat sweet and powdery like a sweet potato.

Considering that chestnuts are the only nut to contain starchy carbohydrates, this makes sense.

12. Dried Sage (1,207 mg per 100g)

Another dried herb, and another polyphenol-rich food.

Sage (salvia officinalis) grows in the Mediterranean region, and it is a member of the mint family.

It is an incredibly flavorful herb, and it is popular throughout the world.

Perhaps sage is most well known for its use in sage and onion stuffing, a typical condiment for roast chicken or turkey.

The herb contains a wealth of phenolic acids. Most notably, it supplies a significant amount of carnosic acid, a polyphenolic compound believed to have neuroprotective effects (15, 16).

13. Dried Rosemary (1,018 mg per 100g)

Picture of Rosemary - a Food High in Polyphenols.

Rosemary is a very strong herb, and it imparts a delicious flavor when we use it in various dishes.

This particular herb is most often used in Italian cooking, and it makes a tasty combination as part of tomato-based dishes.

Turning to Rosemary’s nutritional properties, it is packed with polyphenolic compounds such as flavonoids.

The most prevalent of these flavonoids is rosmarinic acid, which is a polyphenol very similar in structure to coffee’s caffeic acid.

14. Dried Spearmint (956 mg per 100g)

As the name suggests, spearmint is another species from the mint family of plants.

Spearmint has a substantial polyphenol content, and it contains various hydroxycinnamic acids, which are a class of phenolic acids (17).

Similar to peppermint, it is popular in dental hygiene products for its refreshing and pleasant taste.

Spearmint also works well for culinary purposes, and it forms a delicious combination with lamb in various dishes.

15. Dried Thyme (878 mg per 100g)

Thyme is another of the popular Italian herbs, and just like the others, it contains a variety of phenols.

In particular, these include hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acids (18).

The deep flavor means that you only need a small amount, and both dry and fresh thyme help to improve the taste of most dishes.

16. Wild Lowbush Blueberries (836 mg per 100g)

Wild Lowbush Blueberries on a Vine With a Green Leaf.

If you’ve never tried wild blueberries, they’re definitely worth a try.

“Lowbush” simply means that they have not been planted by humans, and spread through the ground.

They are smaller in size and their taste isn’t as sweet as typical grocery store varieties.

On the positive side, they offer deeper flavor and higher nutrient value.

They are also one of the best sources of polyphenols and contain dozens of anthocyanins (19).

17. Blackcurrant (758 mg per 100g)

Compared to blueberries, the blackcurrant offers a flavor that is more tart/sour in nature.

Similar to elderberries, blackcurrants have a wide variety of uses, and they are popular as jam, jelly, tea, and even candy.

The flavor is very popular, and a wide variety of blackcurrant-flavored goods are available in stores.

However, most of these products are just processed sugar, and it is better to stick to the real thing.

Blackcurrants provide a range of phenolic acids and flavonoids (20).

18. Capers (654 mg per 100g)

Capers are delicious, and they’re also a top source of flavonoid polyphenols (21).

Botanically known as capparis spinosa, capers are a pea-sized popular condiment that offer big flavor in a small package.

The taste is intriguing, and they’re somewhat sweet, but rather salty too.

Capers frequently accompany salmon dishes, and if you like raw fish then they’re a default side-serving for salmon sashimi.

19. Black Olives (569 mg per 100g)

Black Olives: a Fruit Very High in Polyphenols.

Black olives are packed with flavor.

They also provide us with nutritional value from their monounsaturated fat content and the polyphenols they contain.

To be specific, black olives provide a source of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and tyrosols.

One polyphenol in the tyrosol family of compounds is oleuropein.

Notably, this compound has compelling research behind it showing beneficial effects on blood pressure and inflammation (22, 23)

20. Highbush Blueberries (560 mg per 100g)

In contrast to the lowbush variety, highbush blueberries are those planted and cultivated by humans.

The berries these shrubs provide are larger, juicier, and sweeter than wild lowbush varieties.

However, their depth of flavor is not quite the same, and they are slightly lower in nutrients.

Despite this, highbush blueberries are available in almost all food stores, so they’re one of the best ways to get polyphenols into our diet.

Among other benefits, daily blueberry consumption appears to improve cognition and blood pressure (24, 25).

21. Hazelnuts (495 mg per 100g)

The hazelnut is the first nut to make the list, and this food contains a significant amount of flavonoids (26).

Hazelnuts have a unique taste which goes well with a variety of flavors.

As a result, we can find all sorts of hazelnut dishes and products. Some popular choices include hazelnut soup, hazelnut coffee, and hazelnut syrup.

Together with its flavor, the hazelnut also brings health benefits to the table. Randomized, controlled trials show that hazelnuts positively impact the lipid (cholesterol) profile (27, 28).

22. Pecan Nut (493 mg per 100g)

Hot on the heels of hazelnuts is the pecan nut.

Not only is this one of the best nut sources of polyphenols, but it’s also one of the most loved nuts.

Popular in desserts such as pecan pie, pecans also make a tasty (and healthier) option as a breadcrumb replacement.

Pecans are crammed full of various flavonoids and they are extremely nutrient-dense (29).

That said, pecans are very energy-dense too, so be careful not to overdo it.

The Yellowy Brown Soybean Flour on a White Surface.

23. Soy Flour (466 mg per 100g)

Soy flour provides a range of polyphenolic compounds known as isoflavonoids (30).

However, these compounds are also available in most whole soy-based products.

For instance, traditional Japanese foods like miso and natto are also good sources.

24. Plum (377 mg per 100g)

Plums are a small, dark purple fruit that contains numerous polyphenols.

Like all purple plant foods, plums provide a range of anthocyanin flavonoids in addition to flavanols, flavonols, and phenolic acids (31).

This little purple fruit has a decent nutrient profile, and it supplies particularly significant amounts of vitamin C.

25. Green Olives (346 mg per 100g)

Like their black older sibling, green olives provide a range of healthy compounds.

In the same fashion as black olives, the standout here is oleuropein, which has a range of benefits.

However, oleuropein is far from the only healthful compound in green olives, and they are full of flavonoids, phenolic acids and tyrosols (32).

26. Dried Basil (322 mg per 100g)

Similar to the other herbs in the mint family, basil has some great nutritional properties.

For one thing, dried basil contains significant amounts of polyphenols, and an especially high phenolic acid content (33).

Some people call basil “the king of herbs”, and when we consider how good it tastes, perhaps they are right.

Of course, basil is the main ingredient in pesto, which is a condiment that makes just about anything taste good.

Long celebrated as a medical herb in India, randomized studies show that basil may help to normalize blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol profiles (34).

A Serving of Curry Powder on a White Surface.

27. Curry Powder (285 mg per 100g)

First of all, curry powder isn’t really a single ingredient.

In fact, it is a blend of herbs and spices which all contain beneficial compounds.

Curry powder tends to contain ingredients such as coriander, cumin, ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, cardamom, and black pepper.

Due to all these different herbs and spices, curry powder provides a wide range of nutrients.

A randomized, controlled trial shows that curry powder induces improvements in endothelial flow-mediated vasodilation after eating a meal (35).

28. Sweet Cherry (274 mg per 100g)

Sweet cherries are one of the world’s most popular fruits due to their juicy, refreshing taste.

This little fruit has a deep and intense red/purple color that is almost blood-like in shade.

Like other dark red/blue fruit, cherries offer a large source of polyphenols from anthocyanins (36).

Interestingly, there are many different kinds of sweet cherries, all of which have a slightly differing taste.

29. Artichoke Heads (260 mg per 100g)

Artichokes are among the best-tasting vegetables.

In addition to a variety of flavones, they contain a compound called caffeoylquinic acid (37).

Caffeoylquinic acid (CQA) is purported to have various antibacterial, anticancer and antihistaminic biological actions (38).

Although boiling seems to be a popular method of cooking this vegetable, roasted artichoke tastes delicious.

30. Blackberry (260 mg per 100g)

As you may guess from their color, blackberries are a fruit rich in anthocyanin polyphenols.

In addition, they also contain various flavanols, flavonols, and phenolic acids (39).

Blackberries make an irresistible combination with some heavy cream, and they are one of the tastiest polyphenol sources.

Roasted Soybeans on a Wooden Bowl.

31. Roasted Soybean (246 mg per 100g)

Otherwise known as dry roasted soybeans, people make this variety of soybeans by roasting them in the oven until they are golden on the outside.

Like all soy products, roasted soybeans are a big source of isoflavonoids (40).

While I’m personally not a fan of soy, these are a better option than heavily processed soy meats and soy milk.

32. Milk Chocolate (236 mg per 100g)

Why is milk chocolate here?

Well, despite being full of sugar, it still contains a fair amount of polyphenols due to its cocoa content.

Despite this, it isn’t really a healthy option.

For the full benefits of cocoa, it is better to stick to chocolate of the darker variety.

33. Strawberry (235 mg per 100g)

Strawberries are one of the most beloved fruits, and they grow around much of the world.

As well as having a delicious taste, strawberries can claim to be a healthy berry. First of all, this bright red fruit supplies a source of flavonoids and phenolic acids (41).

Additionally, strawberries provide a significant amount of vitamin C.

Some evidence-based reviews on the health benefits of strawberries found that they may help to downregulate inflammation and improve cardiovascular risk factors (42, 43).

34. Red Chicory (235 mg per 100g)

Red chicory is a popular vegetable in the Mediterranean region of Europe, and it has a slightly bitter and peppery taste.

Otherwise known as radicchio, this vegetable commonly features in salads for the flavor and color it brings.

Red chicory has a decent polyphenol content too and supplies a large amount of caffeoylquinic acid and other phenolic acids (44).

Pair it with some leafy greens, olives, cherry tomatoes, vinegar and olive oil for a tasty salad.

A Clump of Fresh Raspberries,

35. Raspberries (215 mg per 100g)

Raspberries are an extremely tasty berry.

They are relatively sweet in taste with a very soft texture.

These delicious berries are full of anthocyanins, flavanols, flavonols and phenolic acids.

While there are limited human trials on raspberries, existing preclinical research “suggests a key role for raspberries in reducing the risk for metabolically based chronic diseases, particularly CVD, T2DM, and Alzheimer’s disease” (45).

36. Filtered Coffee (214 mg per 100g)

Drinks can be a rich source of polyphenols of polyphenols too, and coffee is a great example of that.

There are various ways to make this drink, and you can use paper filters, French press, or filter coffee makers.

Coffee contains large amounts of hydroxycinnamic acids and alkylphenols (46).

We can see and taste the flavors of these compounds through the dark, black appearance and bitter taste that coffee exhibits.

37. Dried Ginger (202 mg per 100g)

With ginger, it seems that people either love it or hate it.

Dried ginger has a pale yellow appearance with a strong and spicy aroma. The taste follows a similar pattern, and it has a strong, spicy and somewhat warming flavor.

Chemically, ginger is very high in caffeic acid, and it contains the compound ‘gingerol’, which belongs to a class of polyphenols known as hydroxyphenylpropenes (47).

Notably, gingerols appear to exhibit anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects in the body (48).

38. Wholegrain Hard Wheat Flour (201 mg per 100g)

Wholegrain hard wheat flour is simply flour made from ‘hard wheat’.

Hard wheat has an extremely high protein (and thus: gluten) content, and bakers use it when they want a soft, sticky texture.

As a result of the gluten content, anyone with any sensitivities should avoid it.

Wholegrain hard wheat flour contains a reasonable amount of polyphenols, and these include phenolic acids and alkylphenols (49).

Picture of Flavonol-rich Prunes (Dried Plums).

39. Prunes (194 mg per 100g)

Prunes are simply dried plums.

As a result, they offer much of the same health benefits as fresh plums.

However, since they are missing the water content, they are much more concentrated source of polyphenols. In the same manner, they also contain more nutrients (and sugars) per gram.

Prunes contain a flavonol known as quercetin and a range of hydroxycinnamic acids (50).

40. Almonds (187 mg per 100g)

The taste of almonds is quite interesting, and people seem to either love them or hate them.

Containing a decent supply of polyphenolic compounds, almonds are particularly high in hydroxybenzoic acid.

Researchers believe hydroxybenzoic acids may potentially have beneficial effects for cardiovascular health (51).

41. Black Grape (169 mg per 100g)

Black grapes contain a range of compounds including anthocyanins, flavanols, phenolic acids, and stilbenes (52).

Perhaps the most famous among these is resveratrol, which has received considerable media attention as the “healthy” compound in red wine.

The black color of grapes is due to a higher concentration of polyphenolic compounds compared to green/red grapes.

42. Red Onion (168 mg per 100g)

Despite the name, red onions tend to be more of a purple color in appearance.

As colorful produce tends to be highest in polyphenols, red beats yellow onions on this list.

The particular compounds we can find in red onions include anthocyanins, flavonols, and phenolic acids (53).

Red onions have a slightly sweet taste when cooked, and they taste a little strong and spicy in their raw state.

Picture of Green Chicory Leaves and Flowers.

43. Green Chicory (166 mg per 100g)

Green chicory contains a good source of phenolic acids, notably cichoric acid and caffeoylquinic acid (54).

As a green leafy plant, it usually plays a part in salads.

However, there is an interesting alternative use of chicory– coffee.

To make this drink, the producers roast the plant and then mix it with roasted coffee for a slightly milder, less bitter drink.

Green chicory also contains a substantial amount of beta-carotene and vitamin K1, but be sure to eat it with a source of fat as these are fat-soluble vitamins.

44. Fresh Thyme (163 mg per 100g)

Fresh thyme marks the first fresh version of a herb to make it onto the list.

This polyphenol-rich herb has an even more delicious flavor in its fresh state, and it works amazingly well to flavor recipes.

Similar to dried thyme, the herb contains flavonoids and phenolic acids (55).

45. Maize Flour (153 mg per 100g)

Maize flour represents another grain on the list, and it contains several phenolic acids — namely trans-ferulic acid and p-coumaric acid (56).

Made from ground corn, it is a common staple food in several countries, with Mexico being a particularly notable example.

Maize is one of the most prevalent crops in the world.

46. Tempeh (148 mg per 100g)

Tempeh is a traditional fermented soy-based food that hails from Indonesia.

However, it is now popular throughout the world – especially in Asia.

Tempeh is a good provider of polyphenols, and it contains a wide range of isoflavonoids (57).

Compared to refined soy products, tempeh has a much better nutritional profile as the nutrients are more bio-available.

Additionally, the fermentation process breaks down anti-nutrients in soy and adds various beneficial bacterias.

Studies also suggest that traditional whole, fermented soy products could be healthier than Western-style ultra-processed soy products (58).

Whole Grain Rye and its Seeds.

47. Whole Grain Rye Flour (143 mg per 100g)

Rye is a kind of grass, and it grows all around the world.

It is an alternative grain to wheat for making bread, and it provides various polyphenolic acids and alkylphenols (59).

While rye is not as popular as wheat, it generally contains more nutrients and less gluten, which might be an important factor for some people.

48. Apple (136 mg per 100g)

Does an apple a day really keep the doctor away?

No, probably not… but it is a fruit with a reasonable amount of polyphenols in the form of flavonoids (60).

Apples are a very popular staple fruit, and they appear in all sorts of desserts.

However, nutritionally speaking they aren’t quite as impressive as other fruits. For instance, a medium apple’s major nutrient is vitamin C – and it offers only about 14% of the daily value (61).

49. Spinach (119 mg per 100g)

Spinach is one of the most nutrient-dense green vegetables in the world, and it contains substantial amounts of vitamins and minerals.

This leafy green also provides a significant amount of flavonoids such as spinacetin and patuletin (62).

As a result of the popular cartoon Popeye, spinach is famous for its (non-heme) iron content.

50.Shallot (113 mg per 100g)

Shallots are part of the onion family, and they are from a species of flowering plants known as Allium.

Personally, I love using shallots (and garlic) in cooking as they seem to upgrade the taste of pretty much everything.

Shallots are one of the most polyphenol-rich root vegetables, and they supply flavonoids such as quercetin and phenolic (hydroxybenzoic) acids (63).

Dried Lemon Verbena Leaves,

51. Dried Lemon Verbena (106 mg per 100g)

Otherwise known as vervain, lemon verbena provides a range of flavonoids and the hydroxycinnamic acid verbascoside (64).

Lemon verbena is a plant native to South America, and it has a unique strong scent which has made it popular in perfume, toiletries and for flavoring dishes.

However, the most popular use of the plant is a flavone-rich herbal tea.

Despite its origins, the plant is now prevalent throughout the world.

52. Black Tea (102 mg per 100g)

All tea generally contains a decent amount of polyphenols, and black tea is no exception.

In particular, black tea contains a wide range of flavonoids—particularly catechins, flavonols, and phenolic acids (65).

Perhaps black tea is most famous in the United Kingdom, where people tend to drink it with a small amount of added milk.

Rather impressively, the British drink 165 million cups of tea per day.

53. Red Wine (101 mg per 100g)

Red wine contains an array of various flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes, and various other polyphenols (66).

Numerous studies also show that red wine may have health benefits.

For example, one systematic review demonstrates that red wine independently improves the LDL/HDL ratio of heart patients (67).

54. Green Tea (89 mg per 100g)

Green tea is popular throughout the world, but especially so in China and Japan.

While green tea doesn’t have the highest polyphenol content around, it still provides a decent range of these compounds.

Similar to black tea, green tea provides an assortment of flavonoids and phenolic acids (68).

Soy Yogurt: Rich is Isoflavonones.

55. Soy Yogurt (84 mg per 100g)

Soy yogurts are an alternative to dairy for vegans and those with lactose intolerance issues.

However, these products tend to be highly processed so tread carefully.

As with all soy products, soy yogurts provide a range of isoflavonoids such as genistin (69).

56. Yellow Onion (74 mg per 100g)

Onions add a lot of flavor to virtually any dish, so it’s understandable that they’re one of the most popular vegetables.

Despite the ‘yellow onion’ name, these root vegetables are actually a pale green to white color, and light brown skin surrounds the edible parts.

Known botanically as Allium cepa L, they contain varieties of quercetin, polyphenols belonging to the flavonoids subclass (70).

57. Soy Meat (73 mg per 100g)

Known alternatively as texturized vegetable protein (TVP), soy meat provides a range of isoflavonoids (71).

However, soy meat is actually a by-product of the soybean oil extraction process. Unless flavorings are used, it also tastes relatively bland.

58. Whole Grain Wheat Flour (71 mg per 100g)

Whole grain flour is the powder from processing the whole wheat kernel.

This means that the whole of the wheatberry is present, including the bran, germ, and the endosperm.

In contrast, white (refined) flour contains only the endosperm.

Whole grain wheat flour offers a source of polyphenols from the alkylphenol class of compounds (72).

Glass of Apple Juice Next To An Apple.59. Pure Apple Juice (68 mg per 100g)

Pure apple juice comes at number 59, and this is just fruit juice made by pressing an apple.

Similar to whole apples, apple juice contains a range of flavonoids and phenolic acids (73).

However, it is better to stick to whole fruit rather than juice.

One reason for this is because apple juice doesn’t contain the fiber content of the whole fruit.

60. Pure Pomegranate Juice (66 mg per 100g)

Many juices contain polyphenols and pomegranate juice is no different.

To be specific, it contains various flavonoids and phenolic acids – most notably a compound known as punicalagin (74).

Interestingly, this polyphenol is unique to pomegranates, and cell line and animal studies suggest it may have anticancer properties. However, no research has demonstrated these effects in human participants (75).

As with apple juice, it is generally better to opt for whole fruit rather than just the juice.

61. Extra Virgin Olive Oil (62 mg per 100g)

Similar to red wine, extra virgin olive oil offers an extensive range of polyphenols.

Namely, EVOO provides numerous different flavonoids, lignans, phenolic acids and tyrosols (76).

When buying olive oil, look for one which leaves you with a slight peppery/spicy taste at the back of your throat.

The cause of this taste is oleocanthal, which is a polyphenolic compound contained within olives.

62. Black Beans (59 mg per 100g)

Black beans are a small legume that is especially popular throughout South America.

Nutrition-wise, they provide both carbohydrate and protein, and they’re particularly high in fiber, iron, and magnesium.

Similar to other plant foods with a purple/black color, black beans supply various anthocyanin flavonoids (77).

Picture of Two Peaches: The Sweet Fruit Rich in Flavonoids.

63. Peach (59 mg per 100g)

The peach (Prunus persica) is a stone fruit with a juicy flesh and soft, smooth surrounding skin.

Peaches are native to China but now grow throughout the world, and they tend to bloom in spring and ripen in summer.

Alongside a reasonable dose of vitamin C, peaches also provide flavanols and phenolic acids (78).

64. Pure Blood Orange Juice (56 mg per 100g)

Another juice high in polyphenols, blood oranges are native to China and the Southern Mediterranean region.

With a visually unique look, the fruit is a very distinct blood-red in color, with an extremely juicy flesh surrounded by a thick skin.

The juice of these oranges provides large amounts of vitamin C alongside a range of flavonoids and phenolic acids (79).

Blood oranges are particularly high in a compound named hesperidin, which is believed to be behind many of the benefits of citrus fruit.

65. Cumin (55 mg per 100g)

As one of the most common spices in the world, cumin plays a role in both European and Southern Asian cuisine.

Cumin is a flowering plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family, and ground cumin seeds produce the spice we recognize.

In like manner to various other spices, cumin has a deep, slightly spicy, and warming taste.

Regarding the spice’s health properties, it is rich in various minerals—especially iron, and it contains a large amount of kaempferol, a flavonol also present in cruciferous vegetables (80).

66. Pure Grapefruit Juice (53 mg per 100g)

Grapefruit juice is yet another polyphenol-rich drink, but again – it is better to stick with whole fruit.

Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) is a medium to large sized fruit originating from the Caribbean region.

The taste of this fruit is somewhat sweet, sour, and also slightly bitter, which the polyphenolic compounds it contains may explain.

In particular, grapefruit is a provider of hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acids (81).

Dried White Beans in a Bowl.

67. White Bean (51 mg per 100g)

White beans are a legume native to the Americas.

First of all, there are many different types of white bean such as cannellini, lima (butterbean) and navy beans.

These beans are a good source of vitamin C, magnesium, and contain catechin and kaempferol from the flavonoid class of polyphenols (82).

68. Chinese Cinnamon (48 mg per 100g)

In the first place, there are four main varieties of cinnamon;

  • Cassia
  • Ceylon
  • Korintje
  • Saigon

Known as ‘Chinese cinnamon’, cassia contains large amounts of cinnamic acid and a phytochemical called coumarin (83).

Unfortunately, coumarin may cause liver damage at high doses, so cassia cinnamon requires moderate usage (84).

Ceylon cinnamon does not have this health concern, so it may be a better option.

69. Pure Orange Juice (46 mg per 100g)

Orange juice is high in the flavonoid and phenolic acid classes of polyphenols, and in particular ferulic acid (85).

It also provides a decent amount of vitamin C and potassium.

However, compared to whole fruit, it has less fiber and it is a more concentrated source of fructose.

70. Broccoli (45 mg per 100g)

Broccoli is a green plant in the family of cruciferous vegetables.

Believed to have originated from Italy, it now grows around the world, particularly in China and India.

Broccoli is an impressive source of vitamin C, and it also contains decent amounts of flavonoids and phenolic acids (86).

A Box of Fresh Redcurrants.

71. Redcurrant (43 mg per 100g)

Redcurrants (Ribes rubrum) are part of the gooseberry family of plants and they grow natively in Western Europe.

These small berries are bright red and shiny in appearance, and this certainly makes them look attractive.

Similar to most berries, redcurrants supply a reasonable amount of vitamin C.

Due to their wide-ranging polyphenol content, they have a slightly tart and bitter taste.

Specifically, redcurrants contain dozens of polyphenols from flavonoid, phenolic acid, and stilbenes (87).

72. Soy Tofu (42 mg per 100g)

While not as polyphenol-rich as tempeh, tofu is a similar food – at least in terms of appearance.

Like all soy products, tofu provides a range of isoflavonoids (88).

73. Pure Lemon Juice (42 mg per 100g)

Similar to all citrus fruits, pure lemon juice provides a large amount of vitamin C.

Thanks to the sour nature of lemons, lemon juice is a very tart drink which some people find hard to drink.

In the same fashion as orange juice, lemon is also full of flavonoid compounds, and it contains an additional polyphenol called phlorin (89).

74. Whole Grain Oats (37 mg per 100g)

Oats are a cereal grain and the edible part is actually the oat seed.

This grain is commonly consumed by humans as breakfast cereal, and it’s a typical ingredient in feedlots for animal feed.

Believed to originate in Europe, oats now grow around the world, and Russia is the largest producer.

Nutritionally speaking, oats provide magnesium and iron, and they also contain the flavonoids apigenin and quercetin (90).

Apricots: a Delicious Fruit Full of Phytonutrients.

75. Apricot (34 mg per 100g)

With a bright and beautiful yellowy-orange color, apricots are small in size with a smooth, sometimes furry skin.

Their interior is soft and juicy, like a slightly firmer version of a peach.

Apricots are popular in their fresh and dried forms, and apricot tea is a popular drink too.

Apricots are full of phytonutrients from flavonoids and phenolic acids (91).

Additionally, apricots have high amounts of vitamins A and C.

76. Caraway Seeds (33 mg per 100g)

Otherwise known as meridian fennel, caraway is a spice originating from Italy in times of Ancient Rome.

The spice is often used to flavor recipes, and it is a common ingredient in bread and casseroles.

Caraway seeds contain relatively high amounts of two polyphenols; the flavonoid kaempferol and the phenolic acid called caffeic acid (92).

Randomized studies suggest that caraway may have value for use in treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (93).

77. Refined Rye Flour (31 mg per 100g)

Refined rye flour contains the same polyphenols as rye—alkylphenols and phenolic acids—just in a smaller amount (94).

However, it is generally better to limit refined carbohydrate intake – whether they contain polyphenols or not.

78. Asparagus (29 mg per 100g)

The vegetable asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) is a flowering plant that produces long, edible stems.

Asparagus is delicious, and nothing beats it as a side vegetable to steak.

This stem vegetable provides a wide range of vitamins and minerals, and it contains a large amount of the flavonol quercetin (95).

Walnuts Are High in Phenolic Acids.

79. Walnut (28 mg per 100g)

Walnuts are a nutritious nut that is rich in minerals, protein, and healthy fats.

While not as polyphenol-rich as its almond and pecan siblings, walnuts contain a high amount of ellagic acid, which is a type of phenolic acid (96).

Taste-wise, walnuts are a little bit dry with an earthy taste and a hint of bitterness.

80. Potato (28 mg per 100g)

At number 80 comes the humble potato.

Especially popular with people of the English speaking world (and hobbits), potatoes are a starchy root vegetable.

Although there is a popular belief that potatoes contain little nutritional value, they are a really good source of many vitamins and minerals (97).

Potatoes contain the polyphenols caffeic acid and caffeoylquinic acid (98).

81. Ceylon Cinnamon (27 mg per 100g)

As mentioned earlier, ceylon is one of the four varieties of cinnamon.

Although it may be lower in polyphenols than cassia (Chinese) cinnamon, it doesn’t contain the same amount of—potentially toxic—courmarin.

Ceylon cinnamon tends to grow in Sri Lanka, and it contains a range of polyphenols from phenolic acids (99).

82. Dried Parsley (25 mg per 100g)

Parsley is a type of flowering plant originating in the Mediterranean region of Europe, and it is used as a herb for flavor in various recipes, and also as a vegetable.

Nutritionally, parsley is a powerhouse and provides large amounts of vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium.

It also contains a class of polyphenol called furanocoumarins (100).

Parsley is slightly bitter and grassy in taste and adds a herbal flavor to dishes. It makes a particularly good combination with fish and cream sauce.

Whole and Half Nectarine Next to a Leaf.

83. Nectarine (25 mg per 100g)

Sharing a similar appearance to peaches, the nectarine is almost identical in taste and image except for a slight genetic difference.

As a result, nectarines have a smooth skin and lack the furry skin that peaches have. They also have a slightly firmer texture and mildly sweeter taste.

Nectarines contain (relatively small) amounts of vitamins A and C, and a range of flavonoids and phenolic acids (101).

84. Curly Endive (24 mg per 100g)

Curly endive (var crispum) is a small, wispy green vegetable with curly leaves.

Endive provides large amounts of vitamin K1 and the mineral manganese, and it is high in polyphenols from the flavonoids class (kaempferol) (102).

Endive is a bitter tasting vegetable but becomes somewhat sweeter—and more pleasant—after cooking.

85. Dried Marjoram (23 mg per 100g)

Marjoram is dried herb originating from Cyprus and Turkey, and it is slightly similar in taste to oregano.

Consumed either fresh or dry, marjoram adds a herbal and citrus-sweet depth of flavor to various dishes.

Marjoram is also extremely nutrient-dense and contains huge amounts of vitamins A, C, calcium, iron, magnesium, and many other micronutrients.

The herb contains various phenolic acids and flavonoids, with a particularly high amount of ferulic acid (103).

86. Red Lettuce (23 mg per 100g)

Red lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is just one of the many different types of lettuce.

Like many vegetables, red lettuce provides a good source of beta-carotene and vitamin K1.

Regarding the polyphenol content, red lettuce provides a range of flavonoid compounds including anthocyanins, flavones, and flavonols (104).

Red lettuce is almost always eaten in its raw state, and it is a common ingredient in salads.

A Glass of Chocolate Milk.

87. Chocolate Milk (21 mg per 100g) 

Owing to the huge amount of polyphenols in cocoa, chocolate milk somehow manages to make this list.

However, in addition to polyphenols, this drink contains large amounts of sugar.

88. Quince (19 mg per 100g)

Quince (Cydonia oblonga) is a fruit native to South-West Asia and Eastern Europe that resembles a cross between an apple and a pear.

However, unlike pears and apples, there is no sweet taste and the quince is a very bitter and tart flavor.

For this reason, the fruit is rarely eaten in its raw state and tends to be used for jams and various other preserves.

Quince contains a range of polyphenols from flavanols, flavonols, and hydroxycinnamic acids (105).

89. Escarole (18 mg per 100g)

Escarole is part of the chicory group of vegetables, but it is slightly different in appearance to curly endive.

For one thing, it has broader, thicker leaves and lacks the ‘curlyness’.

However, both of these green vegetables are generally used in the same way.

Escarole contains several kaempferol flavonols (106).

90. Soy Milk (18 mg per 100g)

Soy milk is a processed soy product designed to emultate the appearance of regular dairy milk.

Similar to other soy-based food products, soy milk contains isoflavonoids (107).

Pomelo: Their Juice Contains a Variety of Polyphenols.

91. Pomelo Juice (18 mg per 100g)

The pomelo (Citrus maxima) is a very large citrus fruit which looks similar to a large grapefruit.

It has a sweet taste and a thick rind reminiscent of grapefruit, but the taste does not have the bitterness that grapefruits do.

Pomelo juice contains the polyphenolic compounds naringin and phlorin (108).

92. Rapeseed Oil (17 mg per 100g)

Rapeseed/canola is a highly-processed vegetable oil, and it is far better to stick to naturally-occurring fats.

However, the oil contains small amounts of polyphenols, namely phenolic acids and alkylmethoxyphenols (109).

93. Pear (17 mg per 100g)

Pears are one of the most popular fruit in the world, and China produces 70% of the world’s supply.

Pears are a juicy fruit with a sweet and mild flavor, and they come in different shapes and sizes – not all pears are ‘pear-shaped’.

For example, the Asian/Chinese/Korean pear is large and round like a grapefruit.

Pears supply a moderate amount of vitamin C, and various flavonoids and phenolic acids (110).

94. Bean Sprouts (15 mg per 100g)

Beansprouts are a crunchy vegetable with an extremely high water content.

Generally speaking, either soybeans or mung beans are the most commonly used beans for sprouting.

Due to their high water content, bean sprouts provide neglible amounts of calories, carbohydrate, fat, and protein.

However, they contain polyphenols in the form of isoflavonoids, hydroxybenzoic acid, and hydroxycinnamic acid (111).

Grapes: This Juicy Fruit Contains a Range of Health-Protective Compounds.

95. Green Grape (15 mg per 100g)

Lagging quite a bit behind their darker cousins, green grapes contain 15mg polyphenols per 100g (112).

Botanically speaking, these grapes are actually a berry and they predominantly grow in the Americas, Australia, China, and Europe.

The reason for the color differences between grapes is the polyphenol content, with anthocyanins giving purple and black grapes their darker color.

96. Carrot (14 mg per 100g)

The carrot is a bright orange root vegetable native to Europe and South-Western Asia, but they are grown throughout the world.

They offer a particularly high source of the vitamin A precursor, beta-carotene. Additionally, they are rich in polyphenols from polyphenolic acid (113).

Carrots are a versatile vegetable and people enjoy them raw, in recipes, as a side dish…or even carrot juice and soup.

97. Vinegar (21 mg per 100g) 

Vinegar is an interesting food ingredient that is primarily (15-20%) acetic acid.

In addition to acetic acid having various benefits, vinegar improves the flavor of food and helps to tenderize meat.

This works by the acid breaking down the tough muscle fibers to create a more tender, fuller-flavored meat.

Although it doesn’t contain a significant amount of any one compound, vinegar provides a huge variety of different polyphenolic compounds.

To be specific, there are 32 known polyphenols in vinegar from flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes, hydroxybenzaldehydes, and tyrosols (114).

There are various types of vinegar available, including red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, and apple cider vinegar.

98. Soy Cheese (12 mg per 100g)

Otherwise known as a ‘cheese analogue’, soy cheese is a vegan version of the delicious dairy food.

Soy cheese is made from soy protein, ‘solidified vegetable oil’, and various bulking agents and thickeners.

A Glass of Sparkling White Wine.

99. White Wine (10 mg per 100g)

White wine has a small polyphenol content consisting of various phenolic acids, stilbenes, flavonoids, hydroxybenzaldehydes, hydroxycoumarins, and tyrosols (115).

Lighter in color, it lacks the anthocyanin content of red wines.

Although we call this type of wine ‘white’, the color ranges from pale yellow to light amber.

100. Rosé Wine (10 mg per 100g)

Rosé wine is made with black grapes, but unlike red wine, the grape skins are removed after only a few days.

As a result, rosé wine has a light pink color.

Similar to its red and white siblings, rosé wine contains a wealth of polyphenols from phenolic acids, stilbenes, tyrosols and flavonoids (116).

Key Point: Berries, cocoa, herbs, and spices tend to be the richest food sources of polyphenols.

10 Fruit Highest in Polyphenols

For convenience, here are the ten fruits with the highest polyphenol score from the top 100 foods.

Fruit Polyphenol Content (per 100g)
1. Black Chokeberry 1756 mg
2. Black Elderberry 1359 mg
3. Wild Lowbush Blueberry 836 mg
4. Blackcurrant 758 mg
5. Black Olive 569 mg
6. Highbush Blueberry 560 mg
7. Plum 377 m
8. Green Olive 346 mg
9. Sweet Cherry 274 mg
10. Blackberry 260 mg
Key Point: Black Chokeberry is number one, and it has an extremely bitter and astringent taste.

10 Highest Polyphenol Vegetable Sources

This table shows the ten vegetables with the largest total concentration of polyphenols;

Vegetable Polyphenol Content (per 100g)
1. Artichoke Heads 260 mg
2. Red Chicory 235 mg
3. Red Onion 168 mg
4. Green Chicory 166 mg
5. Spinach 119 mg
6. Shallot 113 mg
7. Yellow Onion 74 mg
8. Broccoli 45 mg
9. Asparagus 29 mg
10. Potato 28 mg
Key Point: Artichoke heads and red chicory are easily the top two vegetables for polyphenols.

10 Herbs/Spices/Others Highest in Polyphenols

Here are the ten most polyphenol-rich foods which are neither fruit nor vegetables;

Food Polyphenol Content (per 100g)
1. Cloves 15188 mg
2. Dried Peppermint 11960 mg
3. Star Anise 5460 mg
4. Cocoa Powder 3448 mg
5. Mexican Oregano 2319 mg
6. Celery Seed 2094 mg
7. Dark Chocolate 1664 mg
8. Flaxseed Meal 1528 mg
9. Chestnut 1215 mg
10. Dried Sage 1207 mg
Key Point: Cloves are the most polyphenol-dense food on earth, but we generally only consume them in small amounts. For this reason, cocoa powder might be the most widely consumed source of polyphenols.

Final Thoughts

As shown in this guide, consuming polyphenols from various foods may have some potential benefits for immune health.

However, just because a food contains some polyphenols doesn’t automatically make it healthy.

There are many determinants of what makes a food healthy or not

Rather than eating isolated fats and refined carbohydrates, focusing on nutrient-dense foods is one of the best ways to stay healthy.

And that is the case whether the food does or does not contain polyphenols.

See these guides to learn more about popular nutritional topics.

18 thoughts on “The Top 100 Foods High In Polyphenols”

  1. Hi. I am fructose intolerant but want to benefit from polyphenols for weight loss. I am obese. I can’t eat any fruit. What foods are best for me. Thanks S.

    Reply
  2. I am a person allergic to all berries, fussy fruits and nuts. So glad to have read this article. Now I know the alternatives to berries without getting an allergic reaction. greatly appreciated.

    Reply
  3. I think this is great! I think I am going to get all the herbs, mix them All up, and make a tea out of them, then all the fruits and make a fruit salad and just mix them up with nuts. I was looking for something like this. Thank you very much.

    Reply
  4. I use fresh herbs- why are they not as high as dried herbs? Is it just the concentration increases without the water content?

    Reply
    • That’s exactly right. Since water makes up the largest proportion of a fresh herb, the proportion for other components (e.g. polyphenols) is small. Remove the water content (dried herbs) and the quantity of everything else becomes higher, gram for gram.

      Reply

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