New research suggests that not all garlic is created equal when it comes to health benefits. Studies published in the Journal of Functional Foods (2024) and JSFA Reports (2026) have identified specific garlic varieties that demonstrate strong antiviral activity against respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) and Influenza A. The findings indicate that certain garlic extracts can impede viral entry into host cells, with activity consistent across both viruses, suggesting the properties are linked to the garlic variety itself rather than growing location.
Nick Diamantopoulos, founder of SupaG Health Pty Ltd, will unveil new garlic products at the renowned Gilroy Garlic Festival this July. The products are based on over 30 years of garlic breeding and analysis of more than 300 varieties from around the world. Diamantopoulos stated, "These findings fundamentally change the way we should think about garlic. For generations, garlic has been viewed as a natural remedy, however our research indicates that not all garlic is equal for health benefits."
The research highlights that biological activity depends on the underlying garlic cultivar, extraction methods, and processing controls. This opens opportunities for intellectual property development around identified cultivars and proprietary formulations for the nutraceutical, functional food, and pharmaceutical sectors. "The future of garlic nutraceuticals will not be commodity-based. It will be health-specific," Diamantopoulos added.
SupaG Health is introducing a premium garlic supplement at the festival, featuring a proprietary ingredient supported by peer-reviewed research. The company is actively pursuing distribution partnerships, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical collaborations, and retail expansion. Throughout the festival, Diamantopoulos will be available to discuss published research and commercial development plans.
It is important to note that the scientific studies were conducted in laboratory settings and do not constitute clinical evidence in humans. These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and SupaG Health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
