Gamma-Carotene is a naturally occurring carotenoid pigment and a member of the tetraterpene family, known for its antioxidant activity and vitamin A precursor properties.
Gamma-Carotene is found in certain fruits and vegetables, often alongside other carotenoids such as beta-carotene and lycopene.
Gamma-Carotene features a unique chemical structure with one beta-ionone ring and one open-ended polyene chain, distinguishing it from alpha- and beta-carotene.
CAS Number: 472-70-8
EC Number: 207-451-0
Molecular Formula: C40H56
Molecular Weight: 536.87 g/mol
Synonyms: Gamma-Carotene, γ-Carotene, 7,8-Dihydro-β,ψ-carotene, Carotenoid C40H56, Gamma-Carotene Pigment, Natural Orange Carotenoid, Provitamin A Gamma, Carotene Gamma, Food Pigment Gamma-Carotene, Gamma-Carotene Antioxidant
APPLICATIONS
Gamma-Carotene is used in the food industry as a natural colorant, particularly in processed cheese, margarine, and baked goods.
Gamma-Carotene is added to beverages and fruit-based products for both its coloring and nutritional properties.
Gamma-Carotene contributes to the visual appeal of food products with its vibrant orange hue.
Gamma-Carotene is included in dietary supplements for its provitamin A activity, though it is less common than beta-carotene.
Gamma-Carotene is used in multivitamin formulations aimed at supporting vision and immune function.
Gamma-Carotene is studied as part of antioxidant blends for its free radical scavenging ability.
Gamma-Carotene is incorporated into cosmetic formulations such as creams, serums, and facial oils for its skin-conditioning and antioxidant effects.
Gamma-Carotene is used in anti-aging and sun-care products to protect skin from oxidative stress.
Gamma-Carotene is added to hair care products for color enhancement and scalp nourishment.
Gamma-Carotene is applied in animal feed, especially poultry diets, to promote pigmentation in skin and egg yolks.
Gamma-Carotene is included in aquaculture formulations to enhance flesh coloration in fish and crustaceans.
Gamma-Carotene is used in pet food supplements to support skin and eye health.
Gamma-Carotene is studied in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical research for its potential in reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular health.
Gamma-Carotene is explored in functional foods for its role in immune support and oxidative balance.
Gamma-Carotene is a potential biomarker in nutritional and metabolic studies.
Gamma-Carotene is used as a natural food coloring agent in beverages, dairy products, and snacks.
Gamma-Carotene is included in dietary supplements as a source of provitamin A.
Gamma-Carotene is used in nutritional products to support eye health.
Gamma-Carotene is incorporated into multivitamin complexes for immune system support.
Gamma-Carotene is employed in skincare products for its antioxidant properties.
Gamma-Carotene is used in cosmetic formulations to impart a healthy skin glow.
Gamma-Carotene is included in anti-aging serums and creams due to its free-radical scavenging activity.
Gamma-Carotene is added to livestock feed to improve pigmentation in eggs and animal tissues.
Gamma-Carotene is used in aquaculture to enhance the coloration of fish and crustaceans.
Gamma-Carotene is applied in functional foods marketed for their vision-enhancing properties.
Gamma-Carotene is used in soft gel capsules as a stable fat-soluble nutrient.
Gamma-Carotene is included in pharmaceutical formulations as an antioxidant adjunct.
Gamma-Carotene is used in sunscreen products for added photoprotection benefits.
Gamma-Carotene is incorporated into beverages fortified with vitamins and antioxidants.
Gamma-Carotene is employed in bakery products as a clean-label coloring agent.
Gamma-Carotene is used in infant formula for its nutritional value and color contribution.
Gamma-Carotene is applied in the production of fortified margarine and oils.
Gamma-Carotene is used in nutraceutical formulations targeting oxidative stress reduction.
Gamma-Carotene is included in sports nutrition products for recovery support.
Gamma-Carotene is used in research as a carotenoid standard in chromatography.
Gamma-Carotene is incorporated into natural pigment blends for organic product lines.
Gamma-Carotene is used in vegetable-based capsules as both a colorant and functional additive.
Gamma-Carotene is employed in emulsified vitamin drinks for enhanced visual appeal.
Gamma-Carotene is added to dairy alternatives such as soy or almond milk for color and fortification.
Gamma-Carotene is used in topical creams to promote even skin tone and protect against environmental stress.
Gamma-Carotene is utilized in pet food to improve color and provide antioxidant benefits.
Gamma-Carotene is used in dietary products for individuals with vitamin A deficiency.
Gamma-Carotene is incorporated into snack seasonings for both color and nutritional enrichment.
Gamma-Carotene is applied in antioxidant-rich oil blends for culinary and health use.
Gamma-Carotene is used in experimental formulations to study carotenoid metabolism in the human body.
Gamma-Carotene acts as a provitamin A compound, meaning it can be converted to vitamin A in the body.
Gamma-Carotene is found in some fruits, vegetables, and microalgae.
Gamma-Carotene has strong antioxidant activity, helping to neutralize free radicals.
Gamma-Carotene contributes to cellular protection and may support immune and skin health.
Gamma-Carotene is less abundant in nature than alpha- or beta-carotene but shares similar nutritional roles.
Gamma-Carotene is stable in oils and emulsions, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Gamma-Carotene is used in both food and cosmetic industries due to its colorant and bioactive properties.
DESCRIPTION
Gamma-Carotene is a fat-soluble, orange-colored carotenoid with a structure composed of a single beta-ionone ring and a long conjugated polyene chain.
Unlike alpha- and beta-carotene, gamma-carotene has a unique chemical configuration that imparts distinct biochemical properties.
Gamma-Carotene is found in nature in certain algae, fungi, and orange-hued vegetables and fruits.
Gamma-Carotene functions as a weak provitamin A compound, converting to retinol in the body, although with lower efficiency than beta-carotene.
Gamma-Carotene acts as a lipophilic antioxidant, protecting cell membranes and tissues from oxidative damage.
Gamma-Carotene is non-toxic and generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food and cosmetic products.
Gamma-Carotene degrades under exposure to light, oxygen, and high temperatures, necessitating protective packaging and storage.
Gamma-Carotene is used in oil-based formulations due to its poor water solubility.
Gamma-Carotene is considered eco-friendly and biodegradable, aligning with clean-label product trends.
Gamma-Carotene is a naturally occurring carotenoid with the molecular formula C40H56.
Gamma-Carotene is structurally similar to beta-carotene but contains one beta-ring and one psi-end group.
Gamma-Carotene is a fat-soluble compound known for its orange to reddish pigment.
PROPERTIES
Common Name: Gamma-Carotene
Chemical Formula: C40H56
Molecular Weight: 536.87 g/mol
Appearance: Orange to reddish-orange crystalline powder
Odor: Odorless
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in oils and organic solvents
Melting Point: ~180°C
Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
Stability: Sensitive to heat, light, and air
Light Sensitivity: High
pH Stability: Stable in neutral and slightly acidic conditions
Color Index: CI 75130 (shared with carotenoids)
Storage Temperature: 4–25°C in sealed, opaque containers
Shelf Life: 12–18 months under proper conditions
Reactivity: Reacts with oxidizing agents; sensitive to UV and oxygen exposure
FIRST AID
Inhalation:
Move to fresh air and rest in a comfortable position.
Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or respiratory irritation occurs.
Skin Contact:
Wash thoroughly with soap and water.
Seek medical advice if irritation or allergic reaction develops.
Eye Contact:
Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes.
Seek medical attention if redness or irritation continues.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth and drink water if large amounts are consumed.
Gamma-Carotene is considered non-toxic; seek medical attention if discomfort arises.
Note to Physicians:
No specific antidote is required.
Treat symptomatically and provide supportive care.
HANDLING AND STORAGE
Handling:
Wear protective gloves, clothing, and safety goggles.
Avoid dust generation and inhalation.
Handle in a well-ventilated area to prevent exposure.
Ventilation:
Use local exhaust ventilation during handling and processing.
Maintain general room ventilation for safety.
Storage:
Store in a cool, dry, dark location in tightly closed, opaque containers.
Protect from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
Label containers clearly and keep away from incompatible substances.
Spill and Leak Procedures:
Clean up spills immediately using a dry method to avoid dust.
Use appropriate protective equipment and avoid environmental release.
Dispose of waste according to local regulations for organic pigment residues.
Handling Precautions:
Keep product sealed when not in use.
Avoid prolonged exposure to air to reduce oxidation and degradation.
Practice good hygiene and do not eat or drink in processing areas.