Carotenoid, which is ubiquitous in nature and the most stable natural pigment, is an orange-yellow fat-soluble compound, shiny rhombohedral or crystalline powder, mainly derived from green plants and yellow, orange fruits and other natural foods.
Dilute solutions of β-carotene are orange-yellow to yellow, orange at increasing concentrations, and may be slightly reddish due to solvent polarity.
Used as nutritional fortifier and food coloring agent.
Mainly used in margarine, noodles, cakes, beverages and health food.