Oxidative stress is now suggested to be one of the major causes for the induction of many chronic diseases. In this context, populations consuming diets rich in fruits and vegetables have shown to have lower incidences of many oxidation-linked chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. This has led to a recent surge in interest in the use of diet as a potential tool to manage oxidation-linked diseases. Phenolic phytochemicals with antioxidant properties are now believed to be an important component in fruits and vegetables responsible for these beneficial health effects.