Processes for producing an extract containing phytochemicals from pomegranates are disclosed. The processes generally comprise providing pomegranate solids, such as the pericarp, inner membrane and seeds； creating a mixture comprising the pomegranate solids in an aqueous solution； adding enzymes to the mixture in an amount sufficient to at least partially degrade the pomegranate solids； heating the mixture to a temperature that permits the maximum rate of catalysis of the enzyme； maintaining the temperature of the heated mixture for a time sufficient to allow at least partial degradation of the pomegranate solids； and removing residual insoluble solid materials from the mixture. Compositions containing the extract may be used as a food product, beverage, pharmaceutical preparations, nutritional supplements, vitamin supplements, food additives, and food supplements. The compositions may also be used for preventing or ameliorating disease conditions by administering an effective amount of the composition to a subject in need thereof.
