Alpha-Carotene
What is Alpha-Carotene?
Alpha-Carotene (CAS 7488-99-5) is a naturally occurring carotenoid pigment found primarily in carrots, pumpkin, and other orange-yellow produce.
Where is Alpha-Carotene used?
- Food and beverage: natural colorant for orange-yellow hues in juices, dairy products, and processed foods without synthetic dyes
- Nutraceutical and dietary supplement: provitamin A delivery in softgels and capsules
- Cosmetic and personal care: skin-tone products, serums, and anti-aging creams
- Pharmaceutical research: reference standard or active ingredient in carotenoid-based formulations under clinical investigation
- It functions as a provitamin A precursor and antioxidant.
Good to know: Often used alongside beta-carotene to provide a broader carotenoid profile. Oil-dispersed forms are preferred for encapsulation.
Commercial specifications
- Natural-source extracts, often standardized to defined concentrations
- HPLC purity data typically documented
Other Names (Synonyms)
Alpha carotene (stereochemistry specified)|α-carotene (natural)|1,3,3-trimethyl-2-[(1e,3e,5e,7e,9e,11e,13e,15e,17e)-3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-18-[(1r)-2,6,6-trimethylcyclohex-2-en-1-yl]octadeca-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-nonaenyl]cyclohexene