What is Sulforaphane?
Sulforaphane (CAS 4478-93-7, molecular formula C₆H₁₁NOS₂) is an isothiocyanate compound derived from glucoraphanin, a glucosinolate found in cruciferous vegetables—primarily broccoli seeds and sprouts.
When glucoraphanin contacts myrosinase (an enzyme released during plant cell damage), it converts to sulforaphane. Broccoli seeds contain up to 100x more glucoraphanin than mature broccoli florets, making them the preferred source for premium extract production.
Source: Journal of Food Science
Mechanism of Action
Sulforaphane functions primarily as a phase 2 inducer, activating the Nrf2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2) cellular defense pathway.

This mechanism has been extensively studied for its role in cellular protection and oxidative stress management.
Source: PubMed (NIH)
Key Specifications
|
Parameter |
Specification |
|
Active Ingredient |
Sulforaphane / Glucoraphanin |
|
Specifications Available |
0.1%, 0.5%, 1%, 5%, 10%, 98% |
|
Appearance |
Light yellow powder / Brown oil |
|
CAS Number |
4478-93-7 |
|
Molecular Weight |
177.29 g/mol |
|
Extraction Method |
Water/Ethanol |
|
Shelf Life |
24 months (stabilized) |
|
Storage |
Cool, dry, protected from light |
Quality Standards & Certifications
|
Certification |
Status |
|
ISO 9001 |
Available |
|
FDA Registered Facility |
Compliant |
|
Halal / Kosher |
Available |
|
Third-Party Testing |
Every batch |
|
Heavy Metals (Pb, As, Cd, Hg) |
≤10ppm total |
|
Microbiological |
USP/EP compliant |
Each batch includes:
- Certificate of Analysis (CoA)
- Heavy metals report
- Microbiological test results
- Stability data
Health-Supporting Properties (Research-Backed)
The following properties are supported by published research. These statements are for ingredient sourcing purposes and do not constitute product claims.
- Antioxidant Support
Research indicates sulforaphane activates cellular antioxidant defenses through Nrf2 pathway modulation, potentially supporting the body's natural ability to manage oxidative stress.
Source: National Cancer Institute
- Detoxification Enzymes
Studies suggest sulforaphane induces phase 2 detoxification enzymes, which play a role in metabolizing and eliminating certain environmental compounds.
Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine
- Inflammatory Response
Research indicates sulforaphane may influence inflammatory pathways, though human clinical data is limited.
Source: PubMed (NIH)
- Cellular Health
Laboratory studies demonstrate sulforaphane's ability to support normal cellular processes, though more human research is needed.
Source: PubMed (NIH)
Bioavailability Considerations
A critical challenge in sulforaphane formulation is stability:
- Sulforaphane is sensitive to heat, moisture, and pH changes
- Standard extracts may lose potency during storage
- Stabilized formulations (microencapsulation) can maintain activity for 24+ months
Source: Examine.com
Applications & Formulation Options
|
Delivery Form |
Suitability |
|
Capsules |
✓ Most common |
|
Softgels |
✓ For oil-based forms |
|
Tablets |
✓ Requires stable form |
|
Powder ( sachets) |
✓ For beverages |
|
Gummies |
✓ With stabilization |
Why Source from Joy-Natural?
|
Our Advantage |
What It Means for You |
|
Authentic Origin Sourcing |
Raw materials from verified growing regions |
|
Traceability |
Full supply chain documentation |
|
Stability Technology |
24-month shelf life guaranteed |
|
Flexible Specifications |
Customized to your formulation needs |
|
Regulatory Support |
FDA, EFSA compliance documentation |
|
Small MOQ for Brands |
1kg+ for private label projects |
Compliance Statement
Our ingredient descriptions are based on published scientific research and are intended for B2B customers who formulate finished products.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This ingredient is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Finished product claims are the responsibility of the brand.
References
1.National Cancer Institute — Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention:
https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/dietry/antioxidants-fact-sheet
2.PubMed — Nrf2 Pathway:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20388537/
3.Johns Hopkins Medicine — Detoxification:
4.PubMed — NF-κB and Inflammation:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23402793/
5.Journal of Neuroscience Research — Neuroprotection:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24375573/
6.Examine.com — Sulforaphane:
https://examine.com/supplements/sulforaphane/
7.Journal of Food Science — Sulforaphane Stability:
https://ift.org/ift-next/2019/march/sulforaphane-and-broccoli
Ready to Get Started?
- Sample: Free sample available (1-5g)
- MOQ: 1kg for custom orders
- Lead Time: 7-14 days
- Documentation: Full COA, technical support

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