Identification of a novel phenolic compound in litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) pericarp and bioactivity evaluation

► A novel phenolics, 2-(2-hydroxyl-5-(methoxycarbonyl) phenoxy)benzoic acid, was identified. ► Kaempferol, isolariciresinol, stigmasterol, butylated hydroxytoluene were identified. ► Butylated hydroxytoluene was detected as a natural antioxidant.