Betacarotene

Other names: provitamin A, Beta-carotene, B-carotene, Food orange 5, Natural yellow 26, CI 75130, carotene, natural yellow 26

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Beta-carotene, also known as provitamin A, Beta-carotene, B-carotene, Food orange 5, Natural yellow 26, CI 75130, carotene or natural yellow 26, is an organic compound belonging to the carotenoid group. This substance is especially important for its antioxidant effect on the human body. At the same time, it is a precursor, i.e. a precursor of vitamin A, which is important for the proper functioning of many biological processes, especially for vision, growth and development of the body, reproduction and immune function. Beta carotene promotes skin and eye health and is also important in the prevention of heart disease and cancer.

Beta-carotene is the most abundant carotenoid in nature and is found in a large number of legumes, fruits and vegetables such as pumpkin, carrots, spinach, mangoes and papaya. In terms of food, it is used as a natural colouring agent that gives foods a deep orange hue. This is why it is often used in canning, confectionery and beverage production. You will find it in popular foods such as yoghurt, cheese, ice cream and juices. Beta-carotene is also used in the cosmetics industry, where it is added to creams, body lotions or sunscreens, always with the aim of increasing the skin's resistance to sunlight and promoting a natural tan.