Disclosed is a flavonoid bioabsorption-promoting composition or
food/beverage which can improve the bioabsorption of quercetin or other
flavonoids having antioxidant effect and therefore are expected to be
effective for the prevention of various diseases. It is found that
ingestion of apple pectin can improve the bioabsorption of quercetin and
other flavonoids by about 2 times and shows higher physiological activity
compared to the case where apple pectin is not ingested. Based on this
finding, a flavonoid bioabsorption-promoting composition or food/beverage
can be provided, which contains apple pectin as an active ingredient and
therefore can improve the bioabsorbability of a flavonoid and show a
flavonoid bioabsorption-promoting activity. By using apple pectin or a
food additive containing apple pectin, it becomes possible to provide a
food or beverage which contains quercetin or other flavonoids, which are
popularly ingested and which are classified in to a category of a
processed food including a soft drink, supplement, seasoning,
confectionery, and a prepared meal.