The term chlorogenic acids refers to a family of esters of hydroxycinnamic acids with quinic acid. The term chlorogenic acid (CGA) can also be used specifically for an ester of caffeic acid and (-)-quinic acid. It is an important biosynthetic intermediate. Chlorogenic acid is an important intermediate in lignin biosynthesis. This compound, long known as an antioxidant, also slows the release of glucose into the bloodstream after a meal. Chlorogenic acids contain no chlorine.
