What Foods Contain Procyanidin B2? A Guide to Antioxidant-Rich Diets

December 21, 2025 •

4 min read

A 2023 review in PubMed noted that procyanidin B2, a promising food-derived pigment, is widely found in common plants such as grapes, hawthorn, and black soybean. This powerful antioxidant is also present in a variety of other delicious foods, offering numerous potential health benefits.

Quick Summary

Procyanidin B2 is a beneficial antioxidant found in many foods, including cocoa, apples, grapes, and certain berries. Adding these sources to your diet can increase intake of this potent polyphenol for various health advantages.

Key Points

Rich Dietary Sources: Procyanidin B2 is abundant in cocoa, certain apple varieties, grape seeds and skin, red wine, and various berries like blueberries and blackberries.
Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties: As a powerful antioxidant, it protects cells from damage and has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects.
Neuroprotective Potential: Studies indicate it can protect neurons from oxidative stress, suggesting a role in preventing neurodegenerative disorders.
Supports Metabolic Health: Research shows that procyanidin B2 can protect against diet-induced obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, potentially by modulating gut microbiota.
Promotes Hair Growth: Clinical trials and lab studies on topical application of procyanidin B2, particularly from apples, have shown promising results for stimulating hair growth.
Benefits for Diabetic Complications: It may help prevent or manage diabetic complications, such as nephropathy and delayed wound healing, due to its anti-glycation properties.

Common Sources of Procyanidin B2

Procyanidin B2 is a type of flavonoid, specifically a proanthocyanidin dimer consisting of two epicatechin molecules linked together. While many plants contain procyanidins in general, specific foods stand out for their notable procyanidin B2 content. The presence and concentration can vary depending on the plant species, variety, and processing method.

Cocoa and Chocolate

Non-alkalized cocoa powder is recognized as one of the richest sources of procyanidins, including procyanidin B2. A study confirmed the presence of procyanidin B2 in cocoa powder and dark chocolate. Cocoa extracts have been studied for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, with the procyanidin B2 component contributing significantly to these effects. Dark chocolate, made with a high percentage of cocoa solids, is a better source than milk chocolate or white chocolate.

Apples

Apples are another excellent source of procyanidin B2, with high concentrations found in both the flesh and peel. Some of the highest concentrations have been found in specific varieties like Annurca apples. Research has also focused on the hair-growth-promoting effects of procyanidin B2 extracted from apples, showing its potential for therapeutic applications. Apple-based products, such as apple cider, also contain this compound.

Grapes and Red Wine

Procyanidin B2 is widely distributed in grapes, especially in the seeds and skin. Consequently, red wine, produced from the fermentation of grapes with their skins, is a known dietary source. Grape seed extract is often concentrated for its high procyanidin content and is available as a supplement. A specific study also identified procyanidin B2 in common grape vine leaves.

Berries and Other Fruits

A range of berries provides procyanidin B2, making them a delicious and healthy way to boost intake. Notable examples include:

Blackberries
Blueberries
Cranberries
Strawberries
Raspberries
Plums

Spices and Legumes

Besides fruits and cocoa, other food groups contribute to procyanidin B2 intake. Cinnamon bark, for instance, contains procyanidin B2 and has been studied for its anti-glycation and anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, certain legumes, such as broad beans and black soybeans, are recognized sources of this compound.

Comparison of Procyanidin B2 Content in Common Foods

While specific concentrations can vary based on factors like origin and processing, the following table provides a general comparison of procyanidin B2 levels in some common food items, based on data available through resources like Phenol-Explorer. Note that measurements are often given per 100g of fresh weight (FW) or 100ml.


Food Source	Typical Form	Procyanidin B2 Content (Approx.)	Key Takeaway
Cocoa Powder	Powder	Up to 262 mg/100g FW	A potent source, especially when non-alkalized.
Dark Chocolate	Solid	Up to 54 mg/100g FW	A delicious way to get high levels from cocoa.
Dessert Apple	Whole, Raw	Up to 38 mg/100g FW	A readily available fruit source; peel is often richest.
Red Wine	Liquid	Up to 9 mg/100ml	Significant liquid source, especially from grape skins/seeds.
Plum	Fresh	Up to 5.2 mg/100g FW	Provides a moderate amount from drupe fruits.
Black Tea	Infusion	Up to 5.68 mg/100ml	A common beverage source.
Lentils	Whole, Raw	Up to 1.38 mg/100g FW	A notable source among legumes.

Potential Health Benefits of Procyanidin B2

Beyond its antioxidant status, procyanidin B2 has been investigated for several targeted health benefits, often observed in animal or cellular studies.

Neuroprotective Effects

Research indicates that procyanidin B2 offers protection against neuronal damage caused by oxidative, nitrosative, and excitotoxic stress. By scavenging reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, it acts as a strong antioxidant in the brain, suggesting it could be a therapeutic agent for neurodegenerative diseases.

Support for Metabolic Health

Studies suggest that procyanidin B2 can help combat metabolic issues, such as diet-induced obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It is shown to prevent weight gain and improve liver steatosis by modulating gut microbiota and reducing gut inflammation.

Hair Growth Stimulation

Topical application of procyanidin B2, particularly from apple extracts, has been studied for its effects on male pattern baldness. Clinical trials have shown that it can increase hair diameter and total hair count, presenting a potential therapeutic option for hair loss.

Diabetic Complication Management

Procyanidin B2 has shown promise in preventing complications associated with diabetes. Research has demonstrated that it can protect against diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage) by inhibiting the formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs). It may also aid in diabetic wound healing by improving endothelial progenitor cell function and increasing circulation.

Conclusion

Procyanidin B2 is a valuable dietary compound with powerful antioxidant and therapeutic properties. It is found in a variety of accessible foods, including cocoa, apples, berries, grapes, and cinnamon. From neuroprotection and metabolic support to potential hair growth stimulation, the health benefits are diverse. Incorporating these rich food sources into a balanced diet is a straightforward way to increase your intake of this beneficial antioxidant. Further research continues to uncover the full extent of its protective effects on human health.

For more in-depth scientific analysis, you can explore the findings on procyanidin B2's role in neuroprotection here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Non-alkalized cocoa powder is often cited as one of the richest sources of procyanidin B2. However, apples, grape seeds, and dark chocolate also contain significant amounts, making a variety of food choices excellent for increasing intake.

Yes, processing can affect flavonoid content. For example, while red wine contains procyanidin B2 from grape skins and seeds, the content in apple products can depend on whether the skin is included during processing. Heat can also cause some degradation, but many compounds remain stable.

No, they are different dimeric forms of procyanidins. While they share a similar basic structure, their specific chemical linkages differ. Research suggests that procyanidin B2 may have stronger anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory effects than procyanidin B1 at similar concentrations.

While supplements offer a concentrated dose, obtaining procyanidin B2 from whole foods provides a synergistic mix of nutrients and fiber. Research notes that procyanidin B2's bioavailability can be low, so consuming whole foods may offer broader nutritional benefits. Choosing fresh food is typically the best way to gain nutritional benefits.

Research indicates that topical application of procyanidin B2 extracted from apples has a positive effect on hair growth. Clinical studies have shown it can increase hair diameter and overall hair count in men with pattern baldness. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended before starting any treatment.

Procyanidin B2 protects neurons by scavenging harmful free radicals and reactive nitrogen species that cause oxidative and nitrosative stress. This antioxidant activity helps shield brain cells from damage, suggesting it could be beneficial in managing or preventing certain neurodegenerative conditions.

Studies in rabbits have shown that procyanidin B2 can improve gut microbiota composition, specifically by increasing beneficial bacteria like Akkermansia. This prebiotic-like effect helps reduce gut inflammation and may protect against metabolic conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.