Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is a reddish-pink pigment found naturally in certain plants, algae, yeast, and seafood like salmon, trout, and shrimp. It is a type of carotenoid, a well-known class of antioxidants. It can be produced through fermentation using microalgae or synthesized chemically.

Manufacturers add astaxanthin primarily as a colorant to give foods a pink or red hue, especially in salmon aquaculture to mimic the natural color of wild salmon. It is also used as a dietary supplement for its antioxidant properties. It is found in farmed fish, seafood products, and some dietary supplements.

Astaxanthin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food colorant and in dietary supplements. It is known for its antioxidant properties, which may help protect cells from damage. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated astaxanthin, but specific numerical limits are not always set. Research into its health benefits is ongoing, with some studies suggesting positive effects on skin health and exercise performance, though more research is needed.