Ergothioneine — the New Antioxidant Everyone Talks About

Antioxidants have become an integral part of the healthy aging concept. But in 2025, a new player has come into focus — ergothioneine.

It is called the “longevity vitamin” because this molecule can accumulate in mitochondria, the brain, liver, and skin, where it protects cells from oxidative stress and inflammation.

At the Vitafoods Europe 2025 exhibition, ergothioneine was presented as one of the key ingredients in the “longevity nutrition” formula.

It is combined with coenzyme Q10, polyphenols, and B vitamins to restore cellular energy.

What is Ergothioneine

Ergothioneine is an amino acid synthesized only by certain fungi and bacteria.

Humans obtain it from food — mainly from mushrooms, oats, legumes, and liver.

The body has a special transport protein (OCTN1) that delivers ergothioneine specifically to tissues where antioxidant protection is needed: brain, heart, kidneys, and skin.

Mechanism of Action

• Neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS), protecting DNA and lipids.

• Reduces inflammation by inhibiting NF-κB.

• Supports mitochondrial function and reduces superoxide formation.

• Improves cognitive function, as confirmed by studies in elderly people.

Table 1. Sources of ergothioneine in diet

Ergothioneine in Modern Nutraceuticals

Today, ergothioneine is added to formulas for skin, heart, and brain. Its stability and water solubility make it promising for drinks, powders, and functional waters.
At Vitafoods 2025, the first ergothioneine gummies combined with resveratrol and CoQ10 were presented.

Table 2. Comparison of ergothioneine with other antioxidants

Practical Recommendations

• Daily dose: 5–10 mg of ergothioneine.

• Can be taken in the morning or daytime, has a mild energizing effect.

• Combines well with CoQ10, polyphenols, B2 and B3 vitamins.

• Recommended course — 1–2 months to improve cognitive function and reduce fatigue.

FAQ

Is ergothioneine a vitamin?
Officially no, but scientists suggest classifying it as a “vitamin-like compound”.

Does ergothioneine help with stress?
Yes, it reduces cortisol levels and inflammatory markers associated with stress.

Is it compatible with caffeine or adaptogens?
Yes, it can even potentiate their effect without increasing anxiety.

Can you get enough ergothioneine from food?
No. Even a mushroom-rich diet provides only 1–2 mg per day.

Is it suitable for vegans?
Yes, ergothioneine in nutraceuticals comes from mushroom extracts.

Conclusions

Ergothioneine is a new generation antioxidant with unique targeted action.

It doesn’t just “capture” free radicals, it protects mitochondria from aging.

This ingredient opens new possibilities for nutraceutical formulas aimed at longevity, cognitive health, and skin beauty.

It is likely that in the coming years, ergothioneine will become as fundamental in nutraceuticals as vitamin D or coenzyme Q10.

References

1. Paul B. et al. Ergothioneine: An Antioxidant Vitamin in Waiting. Antioxidants, 2023.

2. Ames B. N. Proposed classification of ergothioneine as a new vitamin. PNAS, 2022.

3. Vitafoods Europe 2025. Longevity and mitochondrial health trends.

4. Cheah I. K. et al. Distribution and transport of ergothioneine in human tissues. Free Radic Res, 2021.

5. Martin D. P. Ergothioneine supplementation improves cognition and reduces fatigue. Nutrients, 2024.