Research progress on the application of γ-aminobutyric acid in food

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), widely distributed in plants, animals, and microorganisms, is a kind of amino acid derivatives and an inhibitory neurotransmitter of the mammalian central nervous system. As a novel functional factor, GABA has a variety of beneficial physiological functions. This paper reviewed the preparation methods, application scope, health-related physiological functions, enrichment principles and the current research status of GABA-related functional foods, involving GABA teas, bean products, cereals, dairy products, fruits and vegetables, etc., and was expected to provide a basis and reference for further research and development of GABA rich functional foods. Therefore, as a kind of bioactive compound food additives or being after specific pretreatment to increase the content in food, GABA is very promising to be used in developing new functional products.