This section focuses on an overview of beta carotene, β-carotene, or Provitamin A, as well as its manufacturing processes and uses. Also, please check out the introduction to beta carotene manufacturers, supply chain issues, beta carotene suppliers, and beta carotene prices. Sinofi can help you buy high-quality beta carotene in bulk for your industry applications at wholesale prices based on E160a and CAS 7235-40-7.
Table of Contents
What is Beta Carotene?
Beta carotene is a naturally occurring pigment that gives many fruits and vegetables their vibrant orange, yellow, and red colors. It belongs to a class of substances called carotenoids and serves as a crucial precursor to vitamin A in the human body. Beta carotene is a tetraterpenoid hydrocarbon, and it consists of a long polyene chain containing eleven conjugated double bonds, terminated at each end by a beta-ionone ring. This extended conjugated system is responsible for two of its defining characteristics: its intense red-orange color, which arises from strong light absorption in the 450–478 nm region, and its notable susceptibility to oxidative degradation. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), beta carotene is approved to be used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The human body converts beta carotene into vitamin A through a process called bioconversion. Unlike direct vitamin A consumption, the body regulates beta carotene conversion based on its needs, making it a safe source of this vital nutrient. Beta carotene serves diverse industries, including food and beverages, dietary supplements, and cosmetics.
Regulatory Status and Safety Considerations
Beta carotene has been evaluated by major regulatory bodies like JECFA, EFSA, EURLEX, ECHACHEM, NIST, CosIng, and WHO. It enjoys broad regulatory acceptance worldwide. In the European Union, it is authorized as food color E160a, a designation that distinguishes between plant-derived carotenes and beta-carotene produced synthetically or by fermentation. In the United States, it is listed by the FDA as a color additive exempt from certification under 21 CFR 73.95 and is permitted in foods generally at levels consistent with good manufacturing practice. It is likewise approved by JECFA, the joint FAO/WHO expert committee, and by most national authorities in Asia, Latin America, and Oceania. When used for nutritional fortification rather than coloring, additional regulations governing vitamin A claims and maximum addition levels apply, and the formulator must confirm the permissible declaration in each target market.
CAS No.: 7235-40-7
According to the American Chemical Society, the CAS number of beta carotene is 7235-40-7.
Molecular Formula: C40H56
Molecular Mass: 536.87
Appearance: Reddish brown powder or red brown liquid.
Solubility: Insoluble.
Other Names:
β,β-Carotene
β-Carotene
all-trans-β-Carotene
Betacarotene
Food Orange 5
Provatenol
Rovimix β-carotene
Carotaben
Lurotin
Carofertin
E number: E160a
According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), beta carotene is approved to be used as food additive E160a.
Bulk Beta Carotene Manufacturers
The global beta carotene manufacturing industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by increasing demand for natural colorants and nutritional supplements. The global beta carotene production capacity is dominated by several bulk manufacturers like BASF and DSM Nutritional. They operate advanced production facilities in Europe and Asia. They utilize both synthetic and natural production methods, offering a comprehensive portfolio of beta carotene products for various applications. Manufacturers typically offer various formulations, including oil suspensions, water-dispersible powders, and beadlets, each designed for specific applications.
Sinofi is a bulk beta carotene manufacturer in China, and we have a manufacturing facility with 2,500 square meters for the production of beta carotene E160a. We supply high-quality beta carotene at bulk prices and serve food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries worldwide.
Manufacturing Process of Beta Carotene
Modern beta carotene production typically follows one of three main pathways: chemical synthesis, fermentation, or extraction from natural sources. Natural sources primarily include carrots, red palm oil, and algae (Dunaliella salina), while synthetic production relies on chemical synthesis using petroleum-derived materials. Chemical synthesis, while cost-effective for large-scale production, is gradually being supplemented by more sustainable methods. The fermentation process, using organisms like Blakeslea trispora, has gained prominence due to its environmental benefits and consumer preference for natural ingredients.
Raw Material Selection and Preparation
The manufacturing process begins with carefully selected raw materials, primarily involving citral, a naturally occurring terpene compound. High-quality citral serves as the fundamental building block for beta carotene synthesis. Manufacturers typically source pharmaceutical-grade citral to ensure product purity and consistency in the final output.
Chemical Synthesis Process
The synthesis of beta carotene follows a multi-step chemical process. Initially, citral undergoes a condensation reaction with acetone, forming pseudoionone. This intermediate then experiences cyclization under controlled acidic conditions, producing beta-ionone. The subsequent steps involve a series of carefully managed chemical reactions, including Wittig reactions, to create the characteristic long-chain structure of beta carotene.
Purification and Crystallization
Following synthesis, the crude beta carotene undergoes extensive purification. The crystallization process particularly requires precise temperature control and specific solvent selections to achieve the desired crystal structure and purity levels.
Stabilization and Formulation
Pure beta carotene exhibits high sensitivity to oxidation and environmental factors. Therefore, manufacturers incorporate stabilization techniques to enhance product shelf life and application versatility. This typically involves:
- Antioxidant addition to prevent degradation
- Microencapsulation to protect against environmental factors
- Formulation with suitable carriers for specific applications
Bulk Beta Carotene Suppliers
The global beta carotene supply is dominated by several bulk manufacturers like BASF and DSM Nutritional. These bulk beta carotene suppliers have established themselves across different regions, with significant production facilities in Europe, China, and India. Their manufacturing facilities maintain strict quality control measures and provide a consistent supply throughout the year. Their portfolio includes water-dispersible and oil-soluble formulations, catering to diverse industrial requirements.
Sinofi is a bulk beta carotene supplier in China, and we have a warehouse with 1,200 square meters for high-quality beta carotene E160a. We sell different grades of beta carotene at wholesale prices to food, pharmaceutical, feed, and cosmetic manufacturers.
Supply Chain of Beta Carotene
The beta carotene supply chain represents a complex network of interconnected stakeholders managing both natural and synthetic production pathways.
Supply Chain Structure
Primary Production
The beta carotene supply chain begins with two distinct production pathways: natural extraction and synthetic manufacturing.
Upstream Operations
Agricultural producers and synthetic manufacturers form the foundation of the upstream supply chain. For natural beta carotene, farmers cultivate source crops under specific conditions to maximize carotenoid content. Synthetic manufacturers operate chemical plants that produce beta carotene through complex molecular engineering processes.
Midstream Processing
Processing facilities transform raw materials into commercial-grade beta carotene through several stages:
1. Extraction and Purification
- Natural beta carotene undergoes solvent extraction, followed by molecular distillation.
- Synthetic production involves crystallization and purification processes.
- Quality control measures ensure consistent product specifications.
2. Formulation: Processing facilities convert pure beta carotene into various forms:
- Oil suspensions for food applications.
- Water-dispersible powders for beverages.
- Beadlets for supplement manufacturing.
Downstream Distribution
The distribution network comprises several key components:
- Primary Distribution Centers: Regional warehouses maintain temperature-controlled environments to preserve product stability. These facilities manage inventory and coordinate shipments to secondary distributors.
- Secondary Distributors: Specialized chemical and ingredient distributors maintain relationships with end-users across different industries. They often provide technical support and application expertise.
- End-User Segments.
The primary market segments include:
- Food and beverage manufacturers
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Cosmetics producers
- Animal feed manufacturers
Success in this market requires careful attention to quality control, regulatory compliance, and emerging sustainability requirements while maintaining cost-effectiveness and reliable supply.
Wholesale and Buy Beta Carotene in Bulk
Successful bulk purchasing of beta carotene requires careful consideration of quality, form, supplier reliability, and regulatory compliance. By understanding these factors and staying informed about market trends, beta carotene buyers can make informed decisions that align with their operational needs and quality standards. Suppliers should provide comprehensive documentation, including certificates of analysis, stability data, and regulatory compliance information. Establishing long-term relationships with suppliers often proves beneficial for securing stable pricing and ensuring consistent supply. Many leading suppliers offer technical support services, helping customers optimize product formulations and resolve application challenges.
As a bulk beta carotene manufacturer and supplier in China, we supply high-quality E160a ingredient for food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and feed industries. We also wholesale beta carotene to small customers. Normally, they want to buy beta carotene in small quantities. To serve them, we can wholesale high-quality beta carotene at bulk prices and provide a one-stop purchasing service.
Beta Carotene Prices (USD/Kg)
Food Grade Beta Carotene Prices (Microcapsule powder type: Assay≥10.0%)
| Volume | Unit Price | Shipment |
| 50g | 50 USD | Express |
| 500g | 120 USD | Express |
| 1Kg | 185 USD /Kg | Express |
| 20Kg | 25% cheaper | Express |
| 100Kg-Above | negotiable | Express / Sea |
Food Grade Beta Carotene Prices (Oil suspension type: Assay≥30.0%)
| Volume | Unit Price | Shipment |
| 50g | 60 USD | Express |
| 500g | 170 USD | Express |
| 1Kg | 280 USD /Kg | Express |
| 20Kg | 25% cheaper | Express |
| 100Kg-Above | negotiable | Express / Sea |
Recent market analysis indicates significant fluctuations in global beta carotene prices, driven by several key factors affecting both supply and demand. The current market price for synthetic beta carotene ranges between $180-300 per kilogram for food-grade material, representing a 15% increase from the previous year. Pricing varies significantly between natural and synthetic sources of beta carotene. While natural sources generally command premium prices, synthetic options offer greater consistency and often prove more economical for large-scale applications. Natural beta carotene, extracted primarily from sources like Dunaliella salina algae and palm oil, commands a premium price point of $350-450 per kilogram due to growing consumer preference for natural ingredients.
Regional Price Variations
Pricing variations exist across different regions. Beta carotene prices in North American markets typically command a 5-10% premium over those in Asian markets due to stricter quality requirements and higher logistics costs. Beta carotene prices in European markets have seen the most significant price increases, primarily due to energy cost impacts on local production.
Furthermore, the above beta carotene price quotations, especially for small orders, do not include the express shipping fee. This is because the shipment cost of beta carotene may exceed the value of the sample. However, the bulk wholesale prices of beta carotene will be much lower than those of small orders. Please contact us for more details.
Beta Carotene Uses
Beta carotene, a powerful antioxidant and precursor to vitamin A, plays numerous vital roles in both human health and industrial applications.
Food Uses
- Natural food coloring
- Fortification of processed foods
- Beverage enhancement
- Dairy product enrichment
The food industry extensively utilizes beta carotene as a natural colorant (E160a) to enhance the appearance of various products. It provides a vibrant orange-yellow hue to various food applications. Manufacturers add it to margarine, butter, cheese, and other dairy products to achieve an appealing color. Beverage producers also incorporate beta carotene into fruit drinks and energy beverages to improve their visual appeal.
Pharmaceutical and Health Uses
- Vitamin A supplements
- Multi-vitamin formulations
- Specialized nutritional products
In human health, beta carotene serves as a crucial nutrient for maintaining optimal bodily functions. The human body converts beta carotene into vitamin A, which supports vision, immune system function, and cell growth. Medical professionals often recommend beta carotene supplementation for individuals with vitamin A deficiencies or those seeking to enhance their antioxidant intake.
Cosmetic Uses
- Anti-aging products
- Sun protection formulations
- Skin health products
Beta carotene is a multitasking ingredient in cosmetics, offering antioxidant, anti-aging, and skin-brightening benefits while aligning with natural beauty trends. It features prominently in skincare products and supplements designed to promote healthy skin. Its ability to protect against UV damage and support skin cell regeneration makes it a valuable ingredient in anti-aging formulations.
Feed Uses
The agricultural industry benefits from beta carotene’s role in animal nutrition. Farmers add it to livestock feed to improve animal health and enhance the color of animal products, such as egg yolks and chicken skin. This application helps meet consumer expectations for product appearance while providing nutritional benefits to the animals.
Beta Carotene Benefits
Eye Benefits
Research demonstrates that beta carotene is crucial for maintaining healthy vision. When consumed, the body converts beta carotene into vitamin A, which is essential for proper retinal function and night vision. Additionally, this compound helps protect the eyes from oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
Immune System Benefits
Beta carotene significantly bolsters the immune system by promoting the production and activity of white blood cells. These cells serve as the body’s primary defense against pathogens and foreign substances. Regular consumption of beta carotene-rich foods helps maintain robust immune function and may reduce susceptibility to infections.
Skin Benefits
The antioxidant properties of beta carotene contribute substantially to skin health. It helps protect skin cells from UV radiation damage and supports the natural healing process. Furthermore, adequate beta carotene intake may help maintain skin elasticity and reduce signs of aging.
Cancer Prevention Benefits
Studies indicate that individuals with higher dietary intake of beta carotene may have a lower risk of certain cancers. The antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals that can damage cellular DNA and potentially lead to cancer development. However, it’s important to note that these benefits are primarily associated with dietary sources rather than supplements.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Beta carotene’s antioxidant effects extend to cardiovascular health. Research suggests that adequate intake may help reduce oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, a key factor in atherosclerosis development. This protection may contribute to better heart health and reduced cardiovascular risk.
Beta carotene stands as a crucial nutrient for maintaining overall health and preventing various diseases. Its diverse benefits, from supporting vision to potentially reducing cancer risk, underscore the importance of including beta carotene-rich foods in one’s daily diet.
Beta Carotene Used in Food
A Concentrated Chicken Soup Base
The concentrated chicken soup base is prepared from the following ingredients by weight: ginger, 0.1 part; hen, 6 parts; three-yellow chicken, 5 parts; raw chicken fat, 1.2 parts; drinking water, 145 parts; salt, 6.4 parts; monosodium glutamate, 1.2 parts; chicken essence, 1.2 parts; chicken flavoring, 4 parts; β-carotene oil suspention, 0.6 parts; refined chicken fat, 0.5 parts.
In conclusion, beta carotene continues to play a vital role in food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and feed industries. As a bulk beta carotene manufacturer and supplier in China, we sell different grades of beta carotene at wholesale prices to large manufacturers and small customers worldwide.