Fermented papaya: available formulations from online markets

Introduction: Fermentation is a process of central metabolism in which an organism converts a carbohydrate, such as starch or sugar, into an alcohol or an acid [1;2]. Carica papaya, also known as papaya or pawpaw, belongs to the Caricaceae family, and has four genera in the world [3;4]. Due to papaya’s health benefits, this fruit is considered a valuable nutraceutical with an exceptionally diverse composition, encompassing vitamins and enzymes [4]. Fermented papaya preparations, produced by the fermentation of Carica papaya, are a well-known food supplement that exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunostimulatory action. Objectives: A descriptive study was carried out to find out which commercial fermented papaya formulations are available in the market. Methods: Data were gathered during 2021, from February to March. The main available commercial fermented papaya formulations were searched for on international online shopping sites, such as Amazon^®, Naturitas^®, Ebay^®, Nutribio^®, Life Natura^® ,and Fruugo^®. A search was conducted by using the following keywords: “fermented papaya”, “FPP^® - Fermented Papaya Preparation” “Fermented papaya extracts”.

Results: Fermented papaya is available from several brands and in different dosage forms. Its nutritional composition differs between brands, not only in the dose of fermented papaya but also in the presence of other constituents. Many products are available in the online market, making it difficult to choose a suitable supplement because little is known about their labelling and contents to evaluate their appropriateness. Even if the “fermented papaya” composition is included on labels, this does not guarantee that the products have the same fermented papaya composition related to scientific studies with one specific brand (Immun’Âge- FPP^®). Consumers may often interpret anything stated on the label to be authentic, merely because it is in print [5].

Conclusions: There are already many commercial fermented papaya formulations available on the market. However, a deep investigation based on its pharmacokinetic properties is mandatory, as is more regulation.