Scientists have discovered that the humble cranberry harbours several anti-oxidants (flavonoids) that show the ability to counteract the damaging effects of the bacterium streptococcus mutans, which causes dental caries.

The researchers from the University of Rochester in New York, found that cranberries harbour a plethora of biological compounds such as flavonoids (e.g., quercetin and myricetin), phenolic acids (benzoic acid), anthocyanins, and condensed tannins, among others. They found that many of these substances could inhibit enzymes associated with the formation of the plaque polysaccharide matrix, block the adherence of bacteria to surfaces, prevent acid formation, and reduce acid tolerance of cariogenic organisms.

The next step in their research is to identify the specific active constituents in cranberries that could be useful as anti-caries/anti-plaque agents.