Alpha-Carotene

Alpha-Carotene (CAS 7488-99-5) is a naturally occurring carotenoid pigment found primarily in carrots, pumpkin, and other orange-yellow produce. It functions as a provitamin A precursor and antioxidant across food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic applications. In food and beverage manufacturing, it is used as a natural colorant to achieve orange-yellow hues in juices, dairy products, and processed foods without synthetic dyes. This makes it a preferred choice for clean-label formulations.

Nutraceutical and dietary supplement formulators incorporate it into softgels and capsules targeting provitamin A delivery. It is often used alongside beta-carotene to provide a broader carotenoid profile for consumer health products. In cosmetic and personal care formulations, it is used in skin-tone products, serums, and anti-aging creams. The carotenoid antioxidant activity supports product positioning in the high-end skincare market.

Pharmaceutical researchers also use it as a reference standard or active ingredient in carotenoid-based formulations under clinical investigation. It meets rigorous testing requirements for specialized laboratory applications. Alpha-Carotene is available as a crystalline powder or in oil suspension, with oil-dispersed forms preferred for encapsulation. Supply is offered in natural-source extracts, often standardized to defined concentrations.

Food-grade and research-grade specifications are the most commonly sourced, with documentation typically including HPLC purity data. These standards ensure the material meets the necessary safety and quality benchmarks.