Beta-carotene is the molecule that gives carrots their orange colour.It is part of a family of 

chemicals called the carotenoids, which are found in many fruit and vegetables, as well as some 

animal products such as egg yolks.  Biologically, beta-carotene is most important as the 

precursor of vitamin A.It also has anti-oxidant properties and may help in preventing cancer 

and other diseases. 

Beta Carotene is also known as a provitamin because it can be converted in our body into vitamin 

A after oxidative cleavage by beta-carotene 15, 150-dioxygenase. In plants, beta-carotene, 

acts as an anti-oxidant and neutralizes singlet oxygen radicals formed during photosynthesis.

Beta carotene is the molecule that gives carrots their orange colour. It is part of a family of chemicals called the carotenoids, which are found in many fruit and vegetables, as well as some animal products such as egg yolks. Biologically, beta carotene is most important as the precursor of vitamin A. It also has anti-oxidant properties and may help in preventing cancer and other diseases. 

Beta Carotene is also known as a provitamin because it can be converted in our body into vitamin A after oxidative cleavage by beta carotene 15, 150-dioxygenase. In plants, beta carotene, acts as an anti-oxidant and neutralizes singlet oxygen radicals formed during photosynthesis.

Properties: Beta-Carotene, purple or dark red powder. It is insoluble in water, slightly soluble in ethanol and ether, and easily soluble in chloroform benzene and oil. Melting point 176-180 C. In animals

Chinese Name: beta-carotene (edible orange No. 5)

English Name: Beta-Carotine, Natural

Statutory Number: CAS [7235-40-7]

Molecular formula: C40H56

Molecular weight: 536.88