Alpha-Carotene
Alpha carotene (stereochemistry specified), α-carotene (natural)
- CAS
- 7488-99-5
- EC
- 200-838-9
- Sectors
- Food & Nutrition, Nutraceuticals & Supplements, Personal Care & Cosmetics
Alpha-Carotene is a naturally occurring carotenoid pigment with formula C₄₀H₅₆ and molecular weight 536.87 g/mol. It presents as an orange to very dark orange crystalline solid, density approximately 0.938 g/cm³, melting point 187.5 °C, refractive index 1.563. Oil-dispersed and crystalline powder forms are both commercially available.
A provitamin A precursor, alpha-carotene is sourced from orange-yellow produce such as carrots and pumpkin. It functions as a carotenoid antioxidant and natural pigment, supplied to food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic manufacturers typically standardised by HPLC purity.
SoleChem, an ISO 9001:2015 certified chemical supplier based in Türkiye, delivers Alpha-Carotene (CAS 7488-99-5) to customers in more than 40 countries.
Alpha-Carotene
Applications
- Nutraceuticals & Supplements: softgels and capsules combining provitamin A carotenoids.
- Food & Beverage: natural orange-yellow colorant in juices, dairy, processed foods.
- Personal Care & Cosmetics: serums and anti-aging creams for antioxidant activity.
- Pharmaceutical Research: active ingredient in clinical carotenoid-based formulations.
- Animal Feed: natural pigment and provitamin A in feed premixes.
Safety & Risks
Not classified as hazardous under GHS. Low acute toxicity; handle with standard PPE. Avoid prolonged skin and eye contact. Store away from heat, light, and moisture; keep containers sealed.
Packaging
Supplied in 25 kg drums or cartons; 1–5 kg small-lot options available. Store cool, dry, and away from direct light.