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 broiler pigmentation and in foods and cosmetics requiring a more orange-red hue.