What are the applications of β - carotene in the food industry？
Beta Carotene is a naturally occurring organic pigment belonging to the family of carotenoids. It is one of the main pigments in plants, algae, and some microorganisms, widely known for its prominent orange yellow color. β - carotene has important biological and nutritional value due to its function as a precursor of vitamin A and antioxidant properties.
β - carotene has a wide range of applications in the food industry, mainly due to its natural sources, safety, and unique biological functions. The following are its main applications in the food industry:
1. Natural food coloring agents
Function:
(1)β - carotene presents a bright yellow to orange color and is widely used for food coloring.
(2)As a natural pigment, it has high safety and is favored by consumers.
Application:
(1)Beverages: Used for fruit juice, soda, sports drinks, etc., to increase visual appeal.
(2)Dairy products: such as cream, cheese, butter, give them a bright color.
(3)Candy and baked goods: such as gummies, cakes, cookies, etc.
(4)Seasoning: Used for sauces, salad dressings, etc.
2. Nutritional fortifiers
Function:
As a precursor of vitamin A, supplementing the body with the necessary vitamin A helps maintain normal vision, immune function, and skin health.
Application:
(1)Fortified foods: used for infant formula milk powder, grains, flour, etc.
(2)Functional beverages: enhance nutritional value and meet the needs of specific populations.
(3)Dietary supplements: β - carotene capsules or tablets, as part of food supplements.
3. Antioxidants
Function
(1)β - carotene is an effective antioxidant that can scavenge free radicals and delay the oxidation process in food.
(2)Helps to extend the shelf life of food while protecting the color and flavor of the product.
Application:
Oils and fatty foods, such as vegetable oils, butter, etc., prevent oxidation and spoilage.
Instant food: such as frozen food, canned food, delay fatty acid decay.
4.Replace synthetic pigments
Function:
Replace artificially synthesized pigments such as lemon yellow and sunset yellow to meet the demand for "Clean Labels".
Application:
(1)Children's food: such as candy and jelly, ensuring safety and no toxic side effects.
(2)Organic food: β - carotene, as a natural additive, meets the requirements for organic food certification.
5. Applied to plant-based foods
Function:
β - carotene can improve the color of plant-based foods, making them closer to the appearance of traditional animal products.
Application:
(1)Plant milk: increases color appeal.
(2)Plant meat: simulates the natural color of meat, such as the "meaty feel" of hamburgers or sausages.
6. Improve food stability
Function:
With the support of emulsification and microencapsulation technology, β - carotene has good thermal and photostability, making it easy to add to various processed foods.
Application:
(1)High temperature processed foods, such as puffed and fried foods, ensure color stability.
(2)Beverage emulsifier: Dispersed into the beverage system through homogenization technology to maintain uniformity.
Market prospect
With the increasing demand of consumers for natural and functional foods, the potential application of β - carotene in the food industry is enormous. Especially in the fields of children's food, organic food, and functional beverages, their demand is expected to continue to grow.
Xi'an Hersoncare Bio-Tech Co., Ltd
