Lycopene

Lycopene (CAS 502-65-8), also marketed as Lyco Vit and classified as E160d in the EU, is a natural carotenoid pigment sourced primarily from tomatoes. It is used commercially as a colorant and antioxidant in food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic applications. Trans-Lycopene represents the predominant natural isomer form sought by formulators for stability and regulatory compliance. In food and beverage manufacturing, E160d delivers a red-to-pink hue in products such as sauces, soups, and functional drinks.

This ingredient simultaneously provides antioxidant protection to extend shelf life in various food matrices. Nutraceutical producers incorporate it into softgels, capsules, and dietary supplements targeting specific antioxidant positioning for consumers. In personal care, lycopene is used in anti-aging creams and serums where its antioxidant activity supports formulation stability. Functional food manufacturers also use it in fortified dairy and plant-based products to meet clean-label colorant demand.

Lycopene is supplied as a red crystalline powder, oil suspension, or beadlet form. Beadlets are often preferred for dry blending and encapsulation applications due to their superior handling characteristics and stability during processing. Standard grades include food-grade and USP-compliant specifications, with concentrations typically ranging from 5% to 20% in suspension or beadlet formats. These options allow for precise dosing in large-scale industrial manufacturing.

Synthetic and tomato-derived natural variants are both commercially available to meet diverse market needs. Buyers often specify source origin for labeling and regulatory purposes to ensure full compliance with regional safety standards.