Discovery Science

Our biology-focused team and our analytical chemistry team:

• Investigate the biological activity of individual ingredients and finished products
• Evaluate plant varieties that will survive and thrive in our climate
• Characterize and identify phytochemical profiles and fingerprints
• Validate raw material and product activity
• Support manufacturing and farming processes
• Develop unique processes for creation of exclusive SP ingredients

We can identify, quantify, and analyze key chemical markers within whole food ingredients using powerful analytical techniques including high-performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, and mass-spectral detection.

The discovery science team documents biological activity of ingredients and products through the tried and true methods of mammalian cell culture, biochemical assays, metabolomics, and measuring gene expression using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Phytochemical Content of Buckwheat Throughout the Growing Season

The discovery science team, led by Dr. Brandon Metzger, examined the phytochemical profile of buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) over its growing season. Levels of phytochemicals like carotenoids, rutin and anthocyanins change during the growth of the plant from sprout through seed maturation.

The scientists concluded, based on the results and with consideration given to plant size and yield, that optimal harvest times were consistent with our current farming practices. Because this project is ongoing, this finding may be revisited as we accumulate data on other buckwheat varieties and growing years.

Phytochemical Content of Buckwheat Throughout the Growing Season Research Flyer

Radish Shoots a Source of Bioactive Phytochemicals

The discovery science team at Standard Process extended our understanding of the Spanish black radish in this 2009 publication illustrating whole-food complexity with the finding that the total effect of the radish compounds cannot be attributed to any single chemical in the radish.

This research is a great example of the synergy seen in whole foods between compounds we know about and can measure and compounds that are unknown at the present time. In fact, subsequent research by Standard Process scientists revealed the activity of previously unidentified compounds.

Phytochemicals in Spanish Black Radish Induce Detoxification Enzymes

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