Canthaxanthin is known mainly as the natural pigment of the orange-yellow
Chanterelle mushroom, but also occurs in various lower animals, some
crustaceans, insects, fishes and birds. Besides its pigmentation properties,
Canthaxanthin has various physiological functions and can be converted into
vitamin A in case of deficiency.
Canthaxanthin is used for egg-yolk and broiler pigmentation, as the red
component of the yolk colour, and in foods and cosmetics requiring a more
orange-red hue.
Canthaxanthin from DSM Nutritional Products is marketed under the trade name
CAROPHYLL® Red.
Below: canthaxanthin crystals
