Xanthophyll CAS：127-40-2

Xanthophyll extract powder represents a premium group of natural oxygenated carotenoids that give plants their vibrant yellow, orange, and red pigments. Sourced from marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta), spinach, and kale, this golden-yellow powder serves as a cornerstone ingredient across multiple industries — from dietary supplements and functional foods to animal nutrition and natural food coloring. Because xanthophylls include lutein and zeaxanthin as key members, manufacturers value this extract for its broad-spectrum carotenoid profile and proven health benefits.

What Is Xanthophyll?

Xanthophylls (from Greek xanthos meaning ‘yellow’ and phyllon meaning ‘leaf’) constitute a class of oxygenated carotenoids that plants, algae, and photosynthetic bacteria synthesize naturally. Unlike hydrocarbon carotenes (such as beta-carotene), xanthophylls contain at least one oxygen atom in their molecular structure, which enhances their polarity and biological activity. Furthermore, the human body cannot synthesize xanthophylls endogenously, making dietary intake essential for maintaining optimal health.

The most nutritionally significant xanthophylls include lutein, zeaxanthin, alpha-cryptoxanthin, and beta-cryptoxanthin. Among these, lutein and zeaxanthin concentrate specifically in the human retina, where they protect photoreceptor cells from oxidative damage and blue-light stress. Consequently, xanthophyll-rich extracts have become indispensable ingredients in premium eye-health supplements worldwide.

Product Specifications

The table below summarizes the core technical parameters of our xanthophyll extract powder:

Parameter	Details
Product Name	Xanthophyll Extract Powder
Botanical Source	Marigold Flower (Tagetes erecta) / Spinach / Kale
Appearance	Fine yellow to orange-yellow powder
Active Ingredients	Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and other xanthophylls
Total Xanthophyll Content	≥ 5%, 10%, 20%, 40%, 80% (customizable)
Lutein Content	≥ 3%, 5%, 10%, 20% (available separately)
Particle Size	≥ 80 mesh
Loss on Drying	≤ 5.0%
Heavy Metals	Meets USP / EU pharmacopoeia standards
Solubility	Fat-soluble (water-dispersible CWS grade available)
Shelf Life	36 months in sealed, light-protected packaging
Packaging	1 kg / 5 kg / 25 kg (customizable)
Storage Conditions	Cool, dry, dark place; 2–8 °C recommended
Certifications	ISO9001 / ISO14001 / KOSHER / HALAL

 

Key Benefits and Biological Functions

Xanthophylls deliver scientifically validated health benefits that drive strong commercial demand across nutraceutical and food industries. In addition to their well-established role in ocular health, ongoing clinical research continues to reveal new applications in cognitive support, skin protection, and metabolic wellness. The following benefits explain why manufacturers choose xanthophyll extract as a hero ingredient:

• Eye Health & Blue-Light Protection — Lutein and zeaxanthin accumulate in the macula and lens, absorbing high-energy blue light and neutralizing free radicals. Multiple clinical trials associate higher xanthophyll intake with reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, and digital eye strain.
• Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory Activity — Xanthophylls scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby protecting cellular membranes, lipids, and DNA from oxidative injury.
• Cognitive Function Support — Emerging research links higher xanthophyll status with better memory performance, faster processing speed, and reduced risk of cognitive decline in aging populations.
• Skin Health & Photoprotection — Oral and topical xanthophylls reduce UV-induced erythema, support skin elasticity, and promote a more even, radiant complexion.
• Cardiovascular Wellness — Epidemiological studies suggest that xanthophyll-rich diets correlate with improved lipid profiles and reduced risk of atherosclerosis.
• Natural Food Coloring — Xanthophyll extracts provide FDA- and EFSA-approved yellow-to-orange coloring for beverages, dairy products, confectionery, and baked goods without synthetic dyes.

 

Applications and Market Segments

Xanthophyll extract powder adapts seamlessly to a wide variety of finished product formats. Thanks to its excellent thermal stability, vibrant natural color, and strong safety profile, formulators specify it across the following sectors:

• Dietary Supplements — Softgels, tablets, and capsules for eye-health, cognitive-support, and antioxidant product lines.
• Functional Foods & Beverages — Fortified juices, energy drinks, dairy products, meal-replacement powders, and nutrition bars targeting health-conscious consumers.
• Natural Food Coloring — Approved for use in dairy, confectionery, baked goods, and beverages as a clean-label alternative to synthetic Yellow 5 / Yellow 6.
• Nutraceuticals — High-potency formulations for sports nutrition, healthy aging, and vision-support categories.
• Cosmetics & Personal Care — Serums, creams, and oral-care products leveraging xanthophylls’ antioxidant and photoprotective benefits.
• Animal Nutrition — Poultry, aquaculture, and pet-food additives that enhance egg yolk pigmentation, fish flesh color, and overall nutritional quality.

 

Xanthophyll vs. Other Carotenoids

Many buyers ask how xanthophylls differ from carotenes and from each other. The table below clarifies the key distinctions to help you select the right ingredient:

Carotenoid Type	Key Features	Primary Applications
Xanthophylls (Lutein, Zeaxanthin)	Oxygenated; polar; accumulates in retina	Eye health, food coloring, cosmetics
Beta-Carotene	Hydrocarbon; vitamin A precursor; orange pigment	Vitamin A supplement, food coloring
Lycopene	Hydrocarbon; red pigment; tomato-derived	Prostate health, antioxidant blends
Astaxanthin	Keto-xanthophyll; red pigment; algae/shrimp-derived	Athletic performance, skin anti-aging

 

Why Choose Our Xanthophyll Extract?

At Baisifu Biological Engineering, we combine advanced extraction technology with rigorous quality control to deliver xanthophyll powders that meet the highest international standards. Our production process begins with carefully sourced, pesticide-free botanical materials, and we apply supercritical CO2 and solvent-free extraction methods to preserve maximum carotenoid potency. Additionally, we offer our partners:

• Customizable xanthophyll profiles (lutein-rich, zeaxanthin-rich, or balanced blends).
• Water-dispersible (CWS) grade available for clear beverage and dairy applications.
• Consistent batch-to-batch quality verified by third-party HPLC testing.
• ISO9001, ISO14001, KOSHER, and HALAL certifications for global market access.
• Fast sample dispatch — typically within 3 business days of inquiry.
• Dedicated technical support for formulation challenges and regulatory documentation.
• Flexible MOQ and private-label packaging for brands at every stage of growth.

 

Quality Assurance and Certifications

Our manufacturing facility operates under a fully documented quality management system that complies with ISO9001 and ISO14001 standards. Every production batch undergoes comprehensive analytical testing that includes HPLC identity confirmation, heavy metals screening, microbial analysis, pesticide residue testing, and moisture content verification. Moreover, our KOSHER and HALAL certifications open doors to key markets across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. We also provide a complete Certificate of Analysis (CoA), Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), and technical specification sheets to streamline your customs clearance and regulatory submissions.

Storage, Handling, and Shelf Life

Xanthophylls are sensitive to light, heat, and oxygen, which can degrade their color and potency over time. Therefore, we package all xanthophyll extracts in opaque, nitrogen-flushed containers and recommend storing them in a cool, dark, and dry environment (ideally 2–8 °C). Under these conditions, the product retains full activity for a minimum of 36 months from the manufacturing date. During production, we also recommend that formulators add natural antioxidants (such as mixed tocopherols) to the finished product to further protect xanthophylls from oxidation.

Regulatory Status and Safety Profile

Major regulatory agencies worldwide recognize xanthophylls as safe for human consumption. In the United States, the FDA has approved lutein and zeaxanthin as food colorants and GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) ingredients for multiple food categories. In the European Union, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has established acceptable daily intake levels and approved xanthophyll extracts as food additives. Furthermore, no significant adverse effects appear in clinical studies at recommended supplementation doses, confirming an excellent safety profile suitable for long-term daily use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between xanthophyll and lutein?

Lutein is one specific xanthophyll. The term ‘xanthophyll’ refers to the entire class of oxygenated carotenoids, which includes lutein, zeaxanthin, astaxanthin, and others. A broad-spectrum xanthophyll extract delivers a more complete carotenoid profile than lutein alone, which benefits brands targeting overall wellness rather than a single benefit.

Is xanthophyll extract suitable for vegan and vegetarian products?

Yes. Our xanthophyll extract derives entirely from plant sources (marigold, spinach, kale) and contains no animal-derived ingredients, making it fully suitable for vegan, vegetarian, and plant-based product lines.

Can xanthophyll powder color clear beverages?

Free-form xanthophylls are fat-soluble and do not disperse in water. However, we offer a water-dispersible (CWS) grade that uses food-grade carriers to create a stable, cloud-free suspension in beverages, dairy drinks, and clear liquid formats.

What is the recommended daily intake?

Most clinical studies use 6–20 mg of combined lutein and zeaxanthin per day for eye-health benefits. Our technical team provides customized formulation guidance based on your specific product concept and target market regulations.

Do you provide samples before a commercial order?

Yes. We dispatch samples (50–100 g) within 3 business days of receiving your request. Each sample includes a full CoA and specification sheet for your quality evaluation.

Contact and Order Information

Ready to source premium xanthophyll extract powder for your next product launch? Our global sales team supports clients across 50+ countries and typically responds within one business day. Whether you need a small R&D sample or a full commercial shipment, we accommodate your timeline, purity requirements, and packaging preferences.

• Company: Shaanxi Baisifu Biological Engineering Co., Ltd.
• Address: Room A, Baode Cloud Valley International, No. 52 Jinye 1st Road, Yanta District, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
• Certifications: ISO9001 | ISO14001 | KOSHER | HALAL
• Core Products: Xanthophyll, Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Caryophyllene, Coolants, Food Flavors
• Markets Served: EU (27 countries), North America, Latin America, Caribbean, Southeast Asia, Middle East