Research Led by Dr. Barrie Tan

Dr. Barrie Tan, Ph.D., is one of the world’s foremost experts on Vitamin E. After discovering tocotrienols in three major natural sources (palm, rice, and annatto), Dr. Tan dedicated his life to researching their health benefits.

His groundbreaking work identifying annatto as the only tocopherol-free source of tocotrienols revolutionized our understanding of Vitamin E’s therapeutic potential.

His groundbreaking work identifying annatto as the only tocopherol-free source of tocotrienols revolutionized our understanding of Vitamin E’s therapeutic potential.

With over 50 scientific publications and multiple patents, Dr. Tan’s research has been instrumental in establishing tocotrienols as powerful bioactive compounds with unique benefits for cardiovascular health, metabolism, and cellular protection that far exceed those of conventional Vitamin E.

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ACADEMIC & PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

  • Ph.D. in Chemistry, University of Otago, New Zealand
  • Post-doctoral research in Auburn, Alabama
  • Former faculty member in Chemistry & Food Science/ Nutrition, University of Massachusetts Amherst (10 years)
  • Founder & Chief Scientist, American River Nutrition (U.S.)
  • Fellow, American Oil Chemists' Society (AOCS)
  • Senior editor for major tocotrienol scientific publications
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AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

  • Recipient of the 2010 SupplySide West Scientific Excellence Award
  • Frequent speaker at scientific conferences worldwide (including ISSFAL, AOCS, SupplySide West)
  • Cited in over 50 peer-reviewed publications
  • Featured in global media and scientific journals
  • Holds prestigious honors in nutrition, vitamin research, and public health
  • Member of notable industry and scientific societies (American Oil Chemists' Society, International Vitamin Conferences)
  • Regular keynote speaker at international science and health events
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Watch Dr. Tan Explain How the Science of Tocotrienols Began

For over three decades, Dr. Barrie Tan has devoted his life to uncovering the truth about Vitamin E. In this short video, he shares the story behind his discovery of tocotrienols in palm, rice, and annatto—and how this breakthrough changed the way the world understands Vitamin E.

Watch Dr. Tan Explain How the Science of Tocotrienols Began

30+ Years of Scientific Progress

Shop Tocotrienols Backed by Research

1998 – Discovery:

Identification of annatto as a tocopherol-free tocotrienol source.

2002–2008

Landmark Publications:

Identification of annatto as a tocopherol-free tocotrienol source.

2010–2018

Clinical Trials

Human studies confirm safety and benefits in key health areas.

2020

Global Recognition:

International awards and ongoing research.

Clinical Evidence Across Key Health Areas

Tocotrienols have been studied in dozens of human trials and published research worldwide. Here's what the science shows across eight major areas of health and wellness:

Why Most “Vitamin E” Studies Got It Wrong

Most “Vitamin E” clinical trials tested only α-tocopherol, leading to inconsistent and disappointing results. This has created confusion in both the scientific community and among consumers.

It’s crucial to understand tocopherols and tocotrienols are fundamentally different in structure and function. While both are Vitamin E, they act very differently in the body.

Research shows α-tocopherol can block tocotrienol absorption by up to 60%, reducing their effectiveness.

Annatto’s clean δ/γ tocotrienol profile avoids this issue entirely — ensuring maximum bioavailability and therapeutic effect.

Annatto Tocotrienols: The Purest Form Backed by Science

Annatto is the only source that provides 100% δ/γ tocotrienols with no interfering tocopherols. This makes it the preferred source for modern clinical research.

Palm & Rice Sources: Contain mixed tocopherols, diluting effectiveness and blocking absorption.

Annatto Source: Pure δ/γ tocotrienols, the same profile used in the most successful clinical trials.