Carotenes, beta-, Blakeslea trispora:160a(iii)
Origin: Obtained by a fermentation process using the two sexual mating types (+) and (-) of the fungus Blakeslea trispora.
Function & characteristics: The colour is isolated from the biomass by solvent extraction and crystallised. The colouring principle consists predominantly of trans β-carotene together with ariable amounts of cis isomers of β-carotene. Minor amounts of other carotenoids of which γ-carotene accounts for the major part may also be present. The only organic solvents used in the extraction and purification are ethanol, isopropanol, ethyl acetate and isobutyl acetate. The main articles of commerce are suspensions in food grade vegetable/plant oil and water dispersible powders. This is for ease of the use and to improve stability as carotenes easily oxidise.
Products: Many different products
Daily intake:Up to 1 mg/kg body weight
Side effects:None
NoDietary restrictions: None