Astaxanthin Eye Health Vision Support Natural Astaxanthiin CAS 472-61-7 Supplement Bulk Astaxanthin Powder Macular Protection
Product Introduction
Product Name: Astaxanthin (Natural Astaxanthin from Haematococcus Pluvialis)
CAS Number: 472-61-7
Molecular Formula: C₄₀H₅₂O₄
Molecular Weight: 596.84 g/mol
IUPAC Name: 3,3′-Dihydroxy-beta,beta-carotene-4,4′-dione
Chemical Class: Keto-Carotenoid / Xanthophyll
Botanical Source: Haematococcus pluvialis (Freshwater Microalgae)
Product Category: Natural Antioxidant / Nutraceutical Ingredient
Product Specifications
| Item | Specification |
| Product Name | Natural Astaxanthin (Haematococcus Pluvialis Extract) |
| CAS Number | 472-61-7 |
| Molecular Formula | C40H52O4 |
| Molecular Weight | 596.84 g/mol |
| Appearance | Dark red to red-brown fine powder / Dark red viscous oleoresin |
| Odor | Mild, slightly marine-like (natural algal) |
| Melting Point | 215 – 218 °C (decomposes) |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents (chloroform, acetone, ether, ethanol, DMSO) |
| Assay Method | UV Spectrophotometry / HPLC |
| Particle Size (Powder) | 100% through 80 mesh sieve |
| Bulk Density | 0.35 – 0.55 g/mL |
| Moisture Content | ≤ 5.0% |
| Loss on Drying | ≤ 6.0% |
| Residual Solvents | ≤ 0.5 ppm |
Applications
| Industry | Application | Typical Dosage / Usage Level |
| Dietary Supplements | Softgel capsules, tablets, gummies, powder blends | 4-12 mg astaxanthin/day |
| Sports Nutrition | Pre-workout formulas, recovery supplements, endurance boosters | 8-20 mg/day |
| Cosmetics & Skincare | Anti-aging serums, moisturizers, sun protection creams, masks | 0.1-2% w/w (topical) |
| Functional Foods | Energy bars, fortified cereals, dairy products, baked goods | 2-8 mg/serving |
| Beverages | Beauty drinks, antioxidant shots, functional waters | 2-4 mg/serving |
| Aquaculture Feed | Salmon, trout, shrimp coloring and nutrition | 50-100 mg/kg feed |
| Poultry Feed | Egg yolk coloring, skin pigmentation for broilers | 10-30 mg/kg feed |
| Pharmaceuticals | Ophthalmic formulations, anti-inflammatory drugs, neuroprotective agents | Clinical dosage |
| Pet Nutrition | Dog and cat joint supplements, skin and coat health | 2-5 mg/day |
FAQ
Q: What is the difference between natural and synthetic astaxanthin?
A: Natural astaxanthin is extracted from Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae and exists exclusively in the (3S,3’S) stereoisomer form, which is the most bioactive form recognized by the human body. Synthetic astaxanthin is produced from petrochemicals and contains a racemic mixture of stereoisomers with approximately 50% of the antioxidant potency of natural astaxanthin. Natural astaxanthin is preferred for human dietary supplements due to its superior absorption, safety profile, and consumer preference for clean-label, naturally sourced ingredients.
Q: How long does it take to see results from astaxanthin supplementation?
A: Results vary by application. For skin health, visible improvements in skin moisture, elasticity, and reduced wrinkle depth are typically observed within 4-8 weeks of consistent daily use at 4-8 mg. For eye fatigue and sports recovery, benefits may be noticed within 2-4 weeks. For joint health and cardiovascular markers, 8-12 weeks of daily supplementation is generally recommended. Consistent long-term use provides the best results.
Q: What is the best form of astaxanthin to take – oil or powder?
A: Astaxanthin is a fat-soluble compound, so oil-based formulations (softgels containing astaxanthin oleoresin dissolved in safflower or MCT oil) generally offer the highest bioavailability. However, powder forms are preferred for tablets, capsules with added oils, functional foods, and beverages. Water-dispersible powder grades are specifically designed for beverage applications. We recommend taking all forms with meals containing healthy fats to maximize absorption.
Q: Can astaxanthin turn my skin orange or red?
A: At the recommended dosage of 4-12 mg/day, astaxanthin will not cause any noticeable skin pigmentation. At very high doses (above 20 mg/day), some individuals may develop a slight pinkish or reddish skin tint known as carotenodermia, which is completely harmless and reversible upon reducing the dosage. This harmless pigmentation is actually considered a sign of effective carotenoid intake by some users.
Q: What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
A: Our standard MOQ is 1 kg for sample evaluation and R&D purposes. For commercial production orders, standard packaging includes 5 kg and 25 kg drums for powder, and 1 L or 5 L HDPE containers for oleoresin. Custom OEM packaging, private label branding, and larger volume orders are welcomed with competitive factory-direct pricing.
Q: Can astaxanthin be used in combination with other supplements?
A: Yes. Astaxanthin is highly synergistic with many common nutraceutical ingredients. Popular combinations include: CoQ10 for cardiovascular and cellular energy support, Vitamin C and Vitamin E for enhanced antioxidant network, omega-3 fatty acids for anti-inflammatory and brain health, lutein and zeaxanthin for comprehensive eye protection, collagen peptides for skin anti-aging, and glucosamine/chondroitin for joint health. Our R&D team can provide specific formulation guidance.
