Canthaxanthin

Canthaxanthin – Natural Red-Orange Carotenoid Pigment

Canthaxanthin (also known as E 161g, Food Orange 8) is a naturally occurring red-orange carotenoid pigment belonging to the xanthophyll group. It is found in bacteria, algae, certain fungi, and some marine organisms.

Key Features:

• High purity available (≥95% – 99%)

• CAS No.: 514-78-3

• Molecular Formula: C₄₀H₅₂O₂

• Available in oil-soluble, oil-dispersible, and water-dispersible forms

Potential Benefits & Bioactivities:

• Strong antioxidant activity – scavenges free radicals and quenches reactive oxygen species

• Immune-modulating properties – enhances proliferation and function of immune cells

• Supports gap junction intercellular communication

• Does NOT possess Vitamin A activity (unlike beta-carotene)

Applications:

• Food Industry: Carbonated soft drinks, salad dressings, spaghetti sauces, baked goods, dairy products, candies, ice cream, and processed meats

• Feed Industry: Poultry (egg yolk and skin coloring), aquaculture (fish/salmon flesh pigmentation)

• Cosmetics: Coloring agent in cosmetic formulations

• Dietary Supplements: Antioxidant and immune support formulas

Maximum usage level in food: 66 ppm

Stability:

• Fair pH, heat, light, and chemical stability

• Unstable to oxygen and light – store in airtight, light-protected containers under inert gas