Carotenoids: from Plants to Food Industry

G. Zakynthinos, and T. Varzakas*

Technological Educational Institute of Peloponnese Dept. Food Technology

Corresponding Author Email: theovarzakas@yahoo.gr

Carotenoids have been studied for their ability to prevent chronic disease due to the free radical theory of aging in chronic disease etiology. β-carotene, lycopene, zeaxanthine and others carotenoids have antioxidant properties, but the antioxidant capability is variable depending on the in vitro system used The physiology, structure and biochemistry is well described.
Moreover, sources of carotenoids and health effects along with bioavailability-absorption and metabolism, of carotenoids are well addressed. The effect of carotenoids on biotechnology and the food industry is significantly attributed.
Finally, carotenoids as fortified substances in foods and special aspects about carotenenoids as health promoters are well presented along with a glance of carotenoids economics.

Carotenoids; Phtochemicals; Physiology; Biochemistry; Structure; Health effects; Biotechnology

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