EGCG, or epigallocatechin gallate, is the signature catechin of green tea and the most studied of all the tea polyphenols. It is the compound behind much of green tea’s reputation as a wellness drink, prized for its potent antioxidant character and its gentle support of metabolic health. You will find it almost exclusively in green tea brewed from the leaves of Camellia sinensis, where the lightly steamed, unfermented leaves preserve far more of it than black or oolong teas. A freshly steeped cup is by far the richest everyday source.
What is EGCG?
EGCG is a catechin that plays a critical role in neutralising free radicals and modulating the cellular pathways that govern oxidative balance, inflammation and energy metabolism. While many general diets overlook it, maintaining optimal levels of EGCG is frequently tracked by people working to optimize their Antioxidant & metabolic health.
Top Foods High in EGCG
A data-driven breakdown of the foods with the highest concentration of EGCG per 100 g.
| Food | EGCG |
|---|---|
| Green Tea | 70 mg |
How EGCG Impacts Antioxidant & metabolic health
Research links diets rich in EGCG to changes in Antioxidant & metabolic health. Optimizing intake of these foods can support healthy Antioxidant & metabolic health levels via scavenging reactive oxygen species, supporting healthy LDL handling and encouraging fat oxidation, so the body's antioxidant defences and metabolic rhythm are gently reinforced.
Scientific references & clinical evidence
This guide is built on peer-reviewed research — verify the primary sources below.
Written by the Nutrition Encyclopedia team · medically reviewed by Dr. Sunaina Tariq, MBBS
Last updated 22 June 2026
How we source & verify data · Medical disclaimer
Nutrition values are approximations compiled from public food-composition databases (USDA FoodData Central) and are provided for educational purposes only — not medical advice.
Explore by health goal
See the foods that support these goals: