Carotene

Name:
Carotene
Detailed information:

M Formula:	C40H56
Properties:
Ruby-red crystals, easily oxidized on contact with air. Mp (α) 188C, (β) 184C, (γ) 178C. Insoluble in water; slightly soluble in alcohol; soluble in chloroform, carbon disulfide, ether, and benzene.
Source:
Orange-yellow pigment in plants, algae, and some marine animals, especially in leaves, vegetation, and root crops, in trace concentrations. Notably present in butter and carrots.
Derivation:
By extraction from carrots and palm oil; concentration by a chromatographic process from alfalfa. β-Carotene is also made by a microbial fermentation process from corn and soybean oil.
Grade:
According to USP, units of vitamin A, sold as pure crystals, as solutions in various oils, as colloidal dispersions. Also FCC.
Use:
Pharmaceuticals, coloring margarine and butter, feed and food additive.