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Beta-Carotene is a naturally occurring pigment and antioxidant that belongs to the carotenoid family, responsible for the orange, red, and yellow colors in many fruits and vegetables.
Beta-Carotene is best known as a precursor of vitamin A, meaning it is converted into retinol in the body, which is essential for vision, immune function, and skin health.
Beta-Carotene is used widely in food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and animal feed industries as a colorant and nutritional supplement.
CAS Number: 7235-40-7
EC Number: 230-636-6
Molecular Formula: C40H56
Molecular Weight: 536.87 g/mol
Synonyms: Beta-Carotene, Provitamin A, β-Carotene, Carotene, Food Orange 5, E160a, Beta-Carotene Colorant, Natural Orange Pigment, Carotenoid C40H56, Beta-Carotene for Supplements, Beta-Carotene for Cosmetics, Beta-Carotene for Animal Nutrition
APPLICATIONS
Beta-Carotene is widely used in the food industry as a natural orange colorant in dairy products like butter, cheese, and margarine.
Beta-Carotene is added to juices, smoothies, and carbonated beverages for both coloring and nutritional enrichment.
Beta-Carotene is used in bakery items such as cakes, pastries, and icings to provide a rich, warm tone.
Beta-Carotene is used in vitamin and dietary supplements as a major source of provitamin A.
Beta-Carotene is found in multivitamin tablets, soft gels, and fortified functional foods.
Beta-Carotene is included in prenatal supplements to support fetal development and vision health.
Beta-Carotene is incorporated into cosmetic products like foundations, creams, and lip balms for its antioxidant properties and subtle pigmentation.
Beta-Carotene is used in anti-aging skincare for its ability to neutralize free radicals and promote skin repair.
Beta-Carotene is found in sunscreen and after-sun care products for its photoprotective properties.
Beta-Carotene is incorporated into chewing tablets for children to support healthy growth and development.
Beta-Carotene is used in topical formulations designed to repair sun-damaged skin.
Beta-Carotene is applied in baby snacks to provide a natural source of vitamin A.
Beta-Carotene is included in instant soup and broth powders for color and nutritional enhancement.
Beta-Carotene is added to powdered nutritional supplements for the elderly to maintain eye and skin health.
Beta-Carotene is used in meal replacement programs for individuals on restricted diets.
Beta-Carotene is formulated into medical-grade enteral nutrition for hospital patients.
Beta-Carotene is used in nut and seed butters to improve antioxidant content.
Beta-Carotene is added to ice creams and frozen desserts for natural color appeal.
Beta-Carotene is included in food service sauces and seasonings to avoid synthetic colorants.
Beta-Carotene is used in bioplastic research for eco-friendly pigmentation alternatives.
Beta-Carotene is applied in hair care products to improve scalp health and protect from oxidative stress.
Beta-Carotene is incorporated into facial oils for its brightening and antioxidant functions.
Beta-Carotene is used in sunless tanning lotions to give a warm, healthy skin tone.
Beta-Carotene is added to prebiotic and probiotic drinks for added health functionality.
Beta-Carotene is used in culinary sauces like curry and pasta sauce for vibrant natural coloring.
Beta-Carotene is used in confectionery glazes and coatings for color stability and consumer appeal.
Beta-Carotene is included in functional honey blends marketed for immune support.
Beta-Carotene is formulated into baby oil for enhanced nourishment and gentle care.
Beta-Carotene is used in chewable pet treats for skin and vision health.
Beta-Carotene is applied in effervescent drink tablets with added vitamins.
Beta-Carotene is incorporated into hot beverage mixes such as turmeric lattes and golden milk.
Beta-Carotene is used in agricultural sprays as a natural indicator for plant health status.
Beta-Carotene is included in herbal blends and tinctures for immune and skin wellness.
Beta-Carotene is used in high-performance sports nutrition to reduce oxidative stress.
Beta-Carotene is employed in spice blends to intensify color without artificial additives.
Beta-Carotene is added to vegan jerky and snack chips to replace artificial yellow and orange colorants.
Beta-Carotene is used in bakery icings and fondants for clean-label food decoration.
Beta-Carotene is applied in food extrusion products like puffed snacks and cereals for appealing hue.
Beta-Carotene is used in protein-rich drinks targeted at joint and tissue repair.
Beta-Carotene is used in animal nutrition, especially in poultry and aquaculture, to enhance pigmentation in skin, egg yolks, and flesh.
Beta-Carotene is added to pet foods for immune support and to promote healthy vision and skin.
Beta-Carotene is applied in livestock feed to ensure adequate vitamin A supply and reproductive health.
Beta-Carotene is utilized in pharmaceutical products for its antioxidant and pro-vitamin A benefits.
Beta-Carotene is used in topical preparations to support skin healing and UV damage protection.
Beta-Carotene is studied for its role in preventing chronic diseases linked to oxidative stress.
Beta-Carotene is widely used as a natural food colorant in dairy, beverages, and confectionery products.
Beta-Carotene is incorporated into multivitamin supplements as a major source of provitamin A.
Beta-Carotene is added to infant formula to support vision and immune development.
Beta-Carotene is used in anti-aging skin creams for its antioxidant properties.
Beta-Carotene is included in sunscreen products to reduce UV-induced skin damage.
Beta-Carotene is added to nutritional bars and meal replacements for vitamin A enrichment.
Beta-Carotene is used in fortified cereals and grain-based products.
Beta-Carotene is employed in pet food to promote eye and coat health.
Beta-Carotene is incorporated into aquaculture feed to enhance the coloration of fish and shrimp.
Beta-Carotene is used in poultry feed to improve egg yolk pigmentation.
Beta-Carotene is applied in cosmetic products such as lip balms and tinted moisturizers.
Beta-Carotene is used in beverages like smoothies and juices for both color and nutritional benefits.
Beta-Carotene is included in supplements marketed for skin health and sun protection.
Beta-Carotene is used in therapeutic nutrition for individuals with vitamin A deficiency.
Beta-Carotene is added to salad dressings, margarine, and cooking oils.
Beta-Carotene is used in vegan and vegetarian products as a plant-based vitamin A source.
Beta-Carotene is applied in personal care items like bath oils and body lotions.
Beta-Carotene is utilized in fortified dairy alternatives such as soy and almond milk.
Beta-Carotene is used in antioxidant-enriched chewing gum and lozenges.
Beta-Carotene is formulated into soft gel capsules for ease of consumption.
Beta-Carotene is used in emulsions for clear beverage formulations.
Beta-Carotene is included in energy drinks and tonics for functional health claims.
Beta-Carotene is used in bakery items to enhance color and nutritional profile.
Beta-Carotene is used in organic and clean-label food products.
Beta-Carotene is added to plant-based cheeses and spreads for color and vitamin content.
Beta-Carotene is used in functional teas for its antioxidant content.
Beta-Carotene is used in health and wellness shots alongside other carotenoids.
Beta-Carotene is applied in the coloring of pharmaceutical tablets and capsules.
Beta-Carotene is used in medical nutrition for patients recovering from surgery or illness.
Beta-Carotene is added to honey and syrups for functional health positioning.
Beta-Carotene is included in skin-brightening facial masks and serums.
Beta-Carotene is used in eye health formulations along with lutein and zeaxanthin.
Beta-Carotene is used in herbal extracts and tonics for immune support.
Beta-Carotene is employed in research on antioxidant pathways and disease prevention.
Beta-Carotene is incorporated into oral sprays and fast-absorbing supplements.
Beta-Carotene is used in cold-process soaps and body butters.
Beta-Carotene is added to flavored water and hydration products.
Beta-Carotene is applied in anti-pollution skincare formulations.
Beta-Carotene is used in anti-fatigue health supplements for its role in cellular energy.
Beta-Carotene is included in meat substitutes and plant-based sausages for color enhancement.
Beta-Carotene is used both as a colorant (E160a) and as a nutritional additive.
Beta-Carotene is generally considered safe and is approved for use in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Beta-Carotene exists in several isomeric forms, with all-trans beta-carotene being the most common and bioavailable.
DESCRIPTION
Beta-Carotene is a highly pigmented, fat-soluble compound found in carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and other colorful vegetables.
Beta-Carotene is classified as a tetraterpene, consisting of eight isoprene units and featuring a long chain of conjugated double bonds.
Beta-Carotene is a powerful antioxidant that scavenges free radicals and protects cells from oxidative damage.
Beta-Carotene is a red-orange pigment naturally found in plants and fruits.
Beta-Carotene has the molecular formula C40H56 and is classified as a carotenoid.
Beta-Carotene is the most active provitamin A compound, convertible to retinol in the body.
Beta-Carotene is fat-soluble and requires dietary fats for optimal absorption.
Beta-Carotene is well known for its role in supporting vision, especially night vision.
Beta-Carotene acts as a powerful antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals in cells.
Beta-Carotene is found in high amounts in carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and pumpkins.
In the human body, Beta-Carotene is enzymatically converted into vitamin A (retinol), supporting vision, immune defense, and epithelial integrity.
Beta-Carotene is more bioavailable when consumed with fats or in emulsified formulations.
Beta-Carotene is considered safe and non-toxic when consumed within recommended limits, with excess intake resulting in harmless carotenemia (yellowing of skin).
Beta-Carotene is often used in "clean label" and natural product formulations as a replacement for synthetic dyes.
Beta-Carotene can be extracted from natural sources or produced via microbial fermentation or chemical synthesis.
Beta-Carotene is stable in dry form but degrades under heat, light, and oxygen exposure, requiring protective packaging.
PROPERTIES
Common Name: Beta-Carotene
Chemical Formula: C40H56
Molecular Weight: 536.87 g/mol
Appearance: Dark red to orange crystalline powder
Odor: Odorless or slight characteristic odor
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in fats, oils, and some organic solvents
Melting Point: 176–180°C
Boiling Point: Not applicable (decomposes)
Stability: Sensitive to light, heat, and oxygen
Color Index: CI 75130
E Number: E160a
pH Stability: Stable in low to neutral pH
Light Sensitivity: High (requires opaque packaging)
Storage Temperature: 4–25°C in airtight containers
Shelf Life: 12–24 months under proper storage conditions
Reactivity: Reacts with strong oxidizers; degrades in presence of UV or air
FIRST AID
Inhalation:
Move to fresh air if dust is inhaled.
Seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms occur.
Skin Contact:
Wash thoroughly with soap and water.
No significant irritation is expected under normal use.
Eye Contact:
Rinse eyes gently with water for several minutes.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion:
Non-toxic in small quantities.
Rinse mouth with water.
Seek medical advice if large quantities are ingested or symptoms appear.
Note to Physicians:
Treat symptomatically.
No known specific antidote required.
Supportive care based on clinical signs.
HANDLING AND STORAGE
Handling:
Wear gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing during handling.
Avoid inhalation of dust and prolonged skin contact.
Use appropriate measures to prevent static discharge and contamination.
Ventilation:
Use local exhaust ventilation when handling powders.
Ensure good general ventilation.
Storage:
Store in a tightly sealed, opaque container away from light, heat, and moisture.
Keep in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Avoid exposure to air during storage and processing.
Spill and Leak Procedures:
Sweep up carefully to avoid dust generation.
Dispose in accordance with local regulations for organic pigment waste.
Prevent entry into drains and water systems.
Handling Precautions:
Handle under inert atmosphere if possible.
Minimize exposure to oxygen and UV light to maintain potency.
Practice good hygiene and avoid eating or drinking in work areas.
