Beta-Carotin

Beta Carotene: Nature’s Provitamin A Powerhouse – Source, Science & Superior Quality

1. What is Beta-Carotene?

Beta-carotene (β-carotene) is a vibrant red-orange provitamin A carotenoid, predominantly found in plants and microorganisms. It’s the most potent precursor to retinol (vitamin A) within the human body. Chemically classified as a tetraterpenoid, its structure consists of two retinyl groups connected by a polyene chain, responsible for its color and antioxidant properties. Unlike preformed vitamin A (retinol, retinal, retinoic acid), beta-carotene is converted to active vitamin A only as needed by the body, significantly reducing the risk of hypervitaminosis A toxicity. Its primary roles include serving as a crucial dietary source of vitamin A and acting as a potent lipid-soluble antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS).

2. Produktquelle, chemische Eigenschaften und wichtige Identifikatoren

• Primäre natürliche Quellen: Abundant in orange and yellow fruits & vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, mangoes, apricots), dark leafy greens (spinach, kale), red palm oil, and certain algae (e.g., Dunaliella salina).

• Chemische Eigenschaften:

  • Molekularformel: C₄₀H₅₆

  • Molekulargewicht (MW): 536.87 g/mol

  • Aussehen: Deep red-orange to purple crystalline powder or solution.

  • Löslichkeit: Highly soluble in organic solvents (chloroform, benzene), slightly soluble in fats and oils, practically insoluble in water. Solubility can be enhanced via formulation (emulsions, micelles).

  • Stabilität: Sensitive to light, heat, and oxidation. Requires protection (antioxidants, inert atmosphere, opaque packaging).

• Schlüsselkennungen:

  • CAS-Registrierungsnummer: 7235-40-7

  • EC Number (EINECS): 230-636-6

3. Identifying High-Quality Beta-Carotene: Key Attributes

Choosing the “best” beta-carotene involves scrutinizing several critical factors:

• Source & Purity: Entscheiden Sie sich für natural, plant-derived sources (like Dunaliella salina or marigold extracts) over synthetic versions for superior bioavailability and consumer preference. Purity is paramount. Look for HPLC-verified purity exceeding 96%, ideally >99%. Impurities can reduce efficacy and pose safety risks.

• Zusammensetzung: Specify the isomeric profile. All-trans beta-carotene is the primary active form, but some cis-isomers occur naturally and may have different bioavailability.

• Efficacy & Bioavailability: Ensure the product demonstrates high bioconversion efficiency to retinol. Formulations utilizing emulsion technologies (e.g., beadlets, nanoemulsions) significantly enhance absorption in the gut. Stability testing under relevant conditions (heat, light, pH) is essential.

• Einhaltung: Must adhere to strict international pharmacopoeial standards (USP, EP, JP) and relevant food/additive regulations (FDA GRAS, EU Novel Food, JECFA). Rigorous Schadstoffkontrolle (heavy metals, pesticides, solvents, microbes) is non-negotiable.

• Herkunft & Herstellung: Traceability to reputable sources and GMP-certified manufacturing facilities are indicators of quality and safety. Sustainable sourcing practices add value.

• Health Benefits & Mechanism:

  • Provitamin A Activity: Essential for vision (rhodopsin synthesis), immune function (lymphocyte differentiation), cellular growth/differentiation, and reproduction.

  • Starkes Antioxidans: Quenches singlet oxygen and scavenges free radicals, protecting lipids, proteins, and DNA from oxidative damage, linked to reduced risk of chronic diseases (certain cancers, cardiovascular disease, age-related macular degeneration).

  • Hautgesundheit: Contributes to skin pigmentation (mild natural sunscreen), supports skin barrier function, and combats photoaging via antioxidant action.

  • Immunmodulation: Enhances cell-mediated immune responses and antibody production.

• Daily Intake & Dosage:

  • No single RDA for beta-carotene itself. Requirements are expressed as Retinol Activity Equivalents (RAE).

  • 1 mcg RAE = 12 mcg dietary beta-carotene (from food) or 2 mcg supplemental beta-carotene (due to formulation differences).

  • Adequate Intake (AI) for Vitamin A (Adults): 700-900 mcg RAE/day for men, 600-700 mcg RAE/day for women.

  • Typical Supplement Doses: Range from 3 mg to 15 mg daily. High-dose supplementation (>20 mg/day) should be medically supervised, particularly for smokers. Focus on dietary sources first.

• Verwendung: Incorporated into softgels, tablets, capsules, functional foods, beverages, cosmetics (creams, serums). Follow specific product labeling.

• Zielgruppe: Individuals with limited dietary vitamin A intake, those seeking antioxidant support, supporting skin health, specific clinical populations under guidance.

• Vorsichtsmaßnahmen und Nebenwirkungen:

  • Generally well-tolerated at recommended doses.

  • High Doses (>30 mg/day): Can cause harmless but reversible carotenodermia (yellow-orange skin discoloration, especially palms/soles).

  • Smokers: Some large studies (ATBC, CARET) linked high-dose synthetic beta-carotene supplements to increased lung cancer risk in heavy smokers/alcohol users. Natural beta-carotene from food/supplements at typical doses is NOT associated with this risk. Smokers should avoid high-dose isolated supplements unless advised otherwise.

  • Pregnancy/Lactation: Safe from food; high-dose supplements only under medical supervision.

  • Interactions: Orlistat, bile acid sequestrants (cholestyramine, colestipol), mineral oil may reduce absorption.

• Kontraindikationen: Hypersensitivity. Use caution in patients with hypercarotenemia or severe liver/kidney disease.

4. Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd.: Your Trusted Beta-Carotene Partner

Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd. stands as a premier vertikal integriertes High-Tech-Unternehmen dedicated to innovation in chemistry, materials, and life sciences. With 28 years of specialized expertise in bioactive compounds, we excel in the extraction, isolation, purification, and advanced application development of potent plant constituents.

• Kernkompetenzen: Natural Plant Extraction, Kosmetische Wirkstoffe, Pharma & Nutraceutical Ingredients, Natürliche Pigmente, Nahrungsergänzungsmittel, Lebensmittel- und Getränkezusätze, Natürliche Süßstoffe.

• Scientific Prowess (R&D Barriers):

  • Joint Innovation: Strategische Partnerschaften mit 5 leading universities via dedicated joint laboratories.

  • IP-Portfolio: Ownership of Über 20 geschützte Patente, safeguarding advanced extraction and purification methodologies.

  • Exclusive Compound Library: A globally unique repository enabling novel discovery and customization.

• Hochmoderne Qualitätsinfrastruktur:

  • Erweiterte Analysen: Ausgestattet mit HPLC (Hochleistungsflüssigkeitschromatographie), UHPLC (Ultra-HPLC), Und NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) Spectrometry for unparalleled structural confirmation and purity verification.

  • Überlegene Reinheit: Our stringent protocols consistently yield beta-carotene with purity standards exceeding industry averages by over 20%.

• Global Supply Chain: Robust distribution network serving Über 80 Länder in Asien, Europa und Amerika und bietet maßgeschneiderte Zutatenlösungen to multinational pharmaceutical corporations, research institutions, and leading FMCG brands.

Beta-Carotene: Unlocking Proven Health Benefits

• Vision Support: Fundamental for retinal function and low-light vision.

• Stärkung des Immunsystems: Critical for maintaining mucosal barriers and immune cell function.

• Potent Antioxidant Defense: Protects cellular structures from oxidative stress, a key factor in aging and chronic disease.

• Skin Vitality & Protection: Promotes healthy skin turnover, provides mild UV protection (combined with sunscreens), and combats oxidative skin damage.

• Cellular Health & Communication: Supports normal cell growth, differentiation, and gene regulation.

Comprehensive Product Specification & Certificate of Analysis (COA)

Note: Specifications are indicative and based on typical food/pharma grade standards. Actual COA provided per batch.

Advanced Production Workflow

Zhonghong’s beta-carotene production leverages proprietary extraction and purification technology:

1. Sourcing & Pretreatment: Selection of premium Dunaliella salina biomass or plant material. Milling, drying.

2. Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE) / Solvent Extraction: Verwendet food-grade solvents oder supercritical CO₂ for efficient, selective isolation of carotenoids under controlled temperature/pressure.

3. Konzentration: Removal of bulk solvent under vacuum.

4. Multi-Stage Chromatographic Purification: Präparative HPLC oder adsorption chromatography achieves ultra-high purity (>99%), removing isomers, xanthophylls, and residual solvents.

5. Kristallisation: Controlled crystallization to obtain the desired crystalline form and particle size distribution.

6. Stabilization & Formulation (Optional): Conversion into oil suspensions, water-dispersible powders (beadlets), or emulsions using encapsulation matrices (gelatin, starch, gum acacia) and antioxidant systems (tocopherols, ascorbyl palmitate).

7. Trocknen: Sprühtrocknung oder freeze-drying for powdered forms.

8. Strenge Qualitätskontrolle (QC): Rigorous HPLC/UHPLC assay, heavy metal analysis (ICP-MS), pesticide residue screening (GC-MS/MS, LC-MS/MS), microbiological testing, residual solvent analysis (GC), Und physicochemical tests (loss on drying, solubility, particle size) ensure compliance.

Stringent Quality Control Protocol

At Zhonghong, Quality by Design (QbD) principles underpin our beta-carotene manufacturing. Our ISO 17025 accredited laboratory implements a multi-tiered QC strategy:

• Rohstoffqualifikation: Rigorous screening of incoming biomass/solvents against pre-defined specs.

• In-Prozess-Kontrollen (IPC): Critical parameters (solvent ratios, temperature, pressure, flow rates, purity checkpoints) monitored throughout extraction and purification via PAT (Process Analytical Technology) tools like inline spectrophotometry.

• Endgültige Produktfreigabetests: Every batch undergoes full compendial testing per USP-NF <601> Carotenoids Und EP Monographs, including:

  • Identität: FTIR, UV-Vis Spectrophotometry, HPLC retention time match.

  • Assay & Purity: HPLC/UHPLC quantifies all-trans beta-carotene and related substances/isomers against USP/EP reference standards. Purity typically exceeds 99.0%.

  • Contaminants: ICP-MS for heavy metals (Pb, As, Cd, Hg), GC-MS/MS und LC-MS/MS for pesticide residues adhering to strict EU MRLs, LAL test for endotoxins (if applicable), full microbiological enumeration and pathogen testing.

  • Physicochemical Properties: Loss on drying, residue on ignition, solubility, particle size analysis (laser diffraction), specific optical rotation.

• Stabilitätsstudien: Real-time and accelerated ICH Q1A(R2) compliant stability programs to establish shelf-life and storage conditions.

• Dokumentation und Rückverfolgbarkeit: Voll GMP documentation, electronic batch records (EBR), and comprehensive Echtheitszertifikat for complete traceability from raw material to finished product.

Verpackung und globale Logistik

• Primärverpackung: Multi-layered aluminum foil bags with inner polyethylene lining (5kg, 10kg, 25kg net) under nitrogen flush to prevent oxidation. Also available in HDPE-Fässer with double LDPE liners for larger quantities.

• Sekundärverpackung: Robust fiberboard cartons.

• Lagerung: Store below 25°C (77°F) in a cool, dry place. Protect from light, moisture, and oxygen. Maintain sealed packaging until use.

• Haltbarkeit: 24 Monate from manufacturing date when stored correctly in unopened original packaging.

• Logistik: Global shipping via air freight, sea freight (FCL/LCL), or express courier. Compliant with IATA/IMDG regulations. Cold chain options available for sensitive formulations.

Health Mechanisms, Innovation & Research Frontiers

• Wirkmechanismus: Enzymatic cleavage by BCO1 (Beta-Carotene Oxygenase 1) in the intestine yields retinaldehyde, reduced to retinol. Antioxidant action occurs via electron transfer Und radical adduct formation, quenching singlet oxygen (¹O₂) and peroxyl radicals (ROO•). Modulates Nrf2/ARE-Signalweg inducing endogenous antioxidant enzymes.

• Industrielle Anwendungen:

  • Nutrazeutika: Vitamin A supplements, antioxidant blends, immune support formulas.

  • Essen und Trinken: Natural colorant (E160a), fortification in dairy, juices, baked goods, confectionery.

  • Kosmetika: Anti-aging creams, serums, sun care products (antioxidant boost), lipsticks.

  • Animal Feed: Poultry feed for yolk pigmentation, aquaculture for flesh color.

• Zhonghong’s Innovations:

  • Enhanced Bioavailability Formulations: Proprietär nanoemulsions Und self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS).

  • Stabilization Technologies: Fortschrittlich encapsulation matrices Und synergistic antioxidant blends.

  • Sustainable Extraction: Optimization of SFE-CO₂ for reduced solvent waste and energy consumption.

• Forschungsgrenzen und Herausforderungen:

  • Personalisierte Ernährung: Understanding genetic polymorphisms (e.g., BCO1) affecting conversion efficiency.

  • Disease Prevention: Clarifying roles in cancer chemoprevention, cardiovascular health, and cognitive decline beyond basic deficiency correction. Dose-response relationships Und interactions with other micronutrients (vitamin E, selenium) are critical.

  • Bioavailability Engineering: Developing next-gen delivery systems for maximal uptake and tissue targeting.

  • Synthetische Biologie: Engineering microbes for sustainable, high-yield beta-carotene production.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Q: Is your beta-carotene natural or synthetic?

   • A: We specialize in high-purity natural beta-carotene, primarily extracted from Dunaliella salina algae or plant sources using advanced techniques.

2. Q: What purity level do you guarantee?

   • A: Our standard beta-carotene crystals typically exceed 99.0% purity (HPLC assay, all-trans), significantly above industry norms. Custom purities available.

3. Q: Do you offer water-soluble forms?

   • A: Yes, we produce cold-water-dispersible beadlet formulations using starch or gelatin matrices, ideal for beverages and instant products. Nanoemulsions are also available.

4. Q: Are your products suitable for vegans/vegetarians?

   • A: Our natural beta-carotene from algae is inherently vegan. Beadlet formulations can be tailored to be vegan (using plant-based carriers).

5. Q: What certifications do you hold?

   • A: We operate under ISO 9001, ISO 22000, FSSC 22000, GMP (for relevant grades), and hold Kosher, Halal, and Organic certifications for specific products. Documentation available upon request.

6. Q: Can you provide custom formulations or specifications?

   • A: Absolutely. Customization is a core strength. We tailor concentration, particle size, solubility profile, carrier oils, and stabilization systems to meet specific application needs.

7. Q: What is the MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)?

   • A: MOQ varies depending on grade and formulation. Contact us for specific details. Sample quantities are available for evaluation.

8. Q: Is beta-carotene safe for smokers?

   • A: High-dose synthetic beta-carotene supplements (often >20mg/day) were linked to increased lung cancer risk in heavy smokers in specific studies. Natural beta-carotene from food or supplements at typical dietary levels (3-15mg/day) is considered safe. Smokers should consult a healthcare provider before high-dose supplementation.

Procurement & Samples: Experience the Zhonghong Difference

Source premium, high-purity Beta-Carotene directly from the manufacturer. Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd. guarantees vertically controlled quality, innovative formulations, Und reliable global supply.

• Request a Quote or Technical Dossier: Kontaktieren Sie unser Vertriebsteam.

• Kostenlose Proben erhalten: Evaluate our quality firsthand. Limited quantities available for qualified buyers.

• Contact Information:

  • E-Mail: liaodaohai@gmail.com

  • Webseite: https://www.aiherba.com (Visit for full product portfolio and company details)

Abschluss

Beta-carotene remains an indispensable provitamin A nutrient und ein critical endogenous antioxidant. Selecting a high-quality source is vital for efficacy and safety. Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd., with its 28-year legacy, cutting-edge R&D, stringent GMP manufacturing, and global reach, liefert superior natural beta-carotene tailored to the exacting requirements of the nutraceutical, food, beverage, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. Our commitment to purity, bioavailability enhancement, and regulatory compliance makes us the partner of choice for premium plant-based ingredients.

References (Illustrative – Actual formulations require specific citations)

1. World Health Organization (WHO). Vitamin and Mineral Requirements in Human Nutrition. 2nd ed. 2004.

2. Institute of Medicine (US) Panel on Dietary Antioxidants and Related Compounds. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, and Carotenoids. National Academies Press; 2000.

3. Grune, T., et al. (2010). Beta-carotene is an important vitamin A source for humans. The Journal of Nutrition, 140(12), 2268S–2285S.

4. Erdman Jr, J. W., et al. (2009). Are the health attributes of lycopene related to its antioxidant function? Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics, 483(2), 229-235. (Discusses carotenoid mechanisms generally).

5. Bohn, T., et al. (2017). Mechanistic aspects of carotenoid bioavailability. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) – Molekular- und Zellbiologie der Lipide, 1862(10), 1169-1179.

6. US Pharmacopeia National Formulary (USP-NF). General Chapter <601> Carotenoids.

7. European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.) Monograph 01/2008:0776 (Beta-carotene).

8. Codex Alimentarius General Standard for Food Additives (GSFA).

9. EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA). (2012). Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to beta-carotene and maintenance of normal skin and mucous membrane (ID 4236) pursuant to Article 13(1) of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006. EFSA-Journal, 10(12), 2983.