Canthaxanthin

Functions
Colorant
Antioxidant
Pigment
CAS Number(s)
514-78-3
EINECS number(s)
208-187-2
FDA UNII
4C3C6403MU

Canthaxanthin is a red-pigmenting carotenoid found in the Chanterelle mushroom, in the skin pigment of certain crustaceans, and in the skin and organs of many birds and fish. It may act as a potential vitamin A precursor and recent research indicates that Canthaxanthin plays an important role as a free radical scavenger due to its antioxidant properties in poultry metabolism.

It is used as an additive in animal feeding that provides a red component in the egg yolk color and as a natural colorant in the food industry. In skin care applications and decorative cosmetics, Canthaxanthin is used for its orange-red hue (color index 40850), replacing synthetic pigments and colorants. As an additional benefit, it exhibits an excellent antioxidant effect like other carotenoids, protecting dermal cell membranes and DNE from free radicals and oxidative stress.

Active ingredients (or INCI)

CI 40850
Synonyms
Canthaxanthin

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