Crocetin
Description
Crocetin (CAS 27876-94-4) is a natural carotenoid dicarboxylic acid derived primarily from saffron and gardenia fruit, where it occurs as the aglycone core of crocin pigments.
In commercial applications, it functions as a natural colorant and antioxidant active across food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic formulations for global manufacturers and distributors.
In nutraceutical and dietary supplement manufacturing, this compound is incorporated into capsules and softgels targeting cognitive support and sleep quality positioning for consumers.
Food and beverage producers use it as a natural yellow-to-orange colorant in products where synthetic dye replacement is a primary formulation priority for clean-label initiatives.
Cosmetic formulators source this ingredient for inclusion in premium skincare serums and creams, where its antioxidant activity supports anti-aging product claims and efficacy.
Pharmaceutical researchers and specialty ingredient buyers also evaluate it as an active botanical extract for investigational oral and topical preparations in clinical settings.
The material is supplied as a fine crystalline or amorphous powder, typically in standardized extract form with defined purity levels ranging from around 90% to 98%+ by HPLC.
It is available in both synthetic and natural grades, with specification documentation commonly including heavy metal testing and residual solvent data to support regulatory submissions.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 286 °C |
| Boiling Point | 386.14°C (rough estimate) |
| Density | 1.0786 (rough estimate) |
| Appearance | Red, rhomboid crystals.Soluble in pyridine and dilute sodium hydroxide; slightly soluble in water and organic solvents. Combustible. |
| Color | Red to Very Dark Red |
| Form | Solid |
| Refractive Index | 1.4434 (estimate) |
| Log P | 4.312 (est) |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29171900 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Documentation
Other Names
trans-crocetin|8,8'-diapocarotenedioic acid|8,8'-diapo-psi,psi-carotenedioic acid|8,8'-diapo-8,8'-carotenedioic acid|Transcrocetinic acid|2,4,6,8,10,12,14-Hexadecaheptaenedioic acid, 2,6,11,15-tetramethyl-, (all-E)-
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