Disclosed is a hydroxymethylfurfural derivative represented by general formula (1) where R is (I). Also disclose are methods of producing the compound (5-formylfuran-2-yl)methyl (2R)-5-oxopyrrolidine-2-carboxylate) comprising the step of heat treating an asparagus stem with hot water. The compound is suitable as a heat shock protein inducer, anti-stress agent, or autonomic nerve regulator.
