Elisabetta Casalino

BACKGROUND: Polyphenols are plant secondary metabolites present in the human and animal diet, and numerous studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of polyphenol-rich ingredients. METHODS: To date, the research for natural antioxidants as alternative to synthetic products is of great interest among scientists. The present review emphasizes the importance of knowing the content and the quality of phenolic compounds present in natural ingredients. RESULTS: The aim of the present review is also a critical analysis of achievements related to polyphenols action in livestock production with a particular emphasis on their antioxidant-related properties both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, this paper includes information related to the relationships between dietary consumption of polyphenols and risk of disease occurrence in both animal and human. CONCLUSION: From the current scientific understanding, polyphenolic compounds offer significant expectation for health promotion.