Lutein

Physical Information

Carotenoid lutein is a natural yellow food colorant extracted from marigold flowers that are grown in commercial plantations. It is found in high amounts in green leafy vegetables such as kales, spinach, and yellow carrots. It is also extracted from marigold flowers. Just like other carotenes, it offers health benefits as it is a robust antioxidant product used in functional foods.

When it comes to carotenoids, they benefit from specific processing strategies that involve incorporating antioxidants and specialized packaging. Lutein composes of a long, conjugated carbon chain that has cyclized end groups.

The yellow color of the product is due to the light absorption of the conjugated chain. The long-chain also results in color degradation because of light and oxidation. The product is permitted in European Union countries as a food colorant.