Product Description
Reference Standards &Impurity
AI Product Description
*The following content is generated by AI and is for reference only.
Carotene, commonly referred to as beta-carotene in commercial contexts, is a naturally occurring red-orange pigment belonging to the carotenoid family. Chemically identified by CAS number 7235-40-7, its molecular formula is C40H56. This hydrocarbon compound is synthesized primarily by plants, algae, and photosynthetic bacteria, serving as a vital accessory pigment in photosynthesis while protecting cells from oxidative damage. In nature, it is abundant in carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, spinach, and other colorful fruits and vegetables, giving them their characteristic vibrant hues.
From an industrial and nutritional perspective, Carotene holds immense significance across multiple sectors. In the food industry, it is widely utilized as a natural colorant (E160a), replacing synthetic dyes to enhance the visual appeal of beverages, dairy products, margarine, and confectionery. Its application ensures product consistency while appealing to consumers seeking clean-label ingredients. Furthermore, Carotene serves as a crucial precursor for Vitamin A (retinol) synthesis in the human body. Upon ingestion, enzymes cleave beta-carotene into retinal, which is essential for vision, immune function, and cellular communication. Consequently, it is a key ingredient in dietary supplements designed to prevent vitamin A deficiency and support overall health.
In the pharmaceutical sector, high-purity Carotene is formulated into capsules and tablets to address specific nutritional needs or used in topical skincare products for its antioxidant properties, helping to mitigate signs of aging caused by free radicals. Additionally, it finds use in animal feed to improve the pigmentation of egg yolks and poultry skin. Despite its stability under normal conditions, Carotene can degrade under intense heat, light, or acidic environments, necessitating careful handling during manufacturing. As global demand for natural additives grows, Carotene remains a versatile, safe, and indispensable compound bridging the gap between agricultural abundance and industrial utility, offering both aesthetic value and profound biological benefits.