Ingredient

Natural Astaxanthin

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Natural astaxanthin is primarily used as a natural colorant, giving foods a pink or …

What it is

Natural astaxanthin is a reddish-pink pigment found in certain algae, yeast, salmon, trout, krill, and shrimp. It is produced commercially through the cultivation of the microalga *Haematococcus pluvialis*. The pigment is extracted from the algae and purified for use in food and supplements.

Why it's used

Natural astaxanthin is primarily used as a natural colorant, giving foods a pink or red hue. It is often found in salmon-flavored products, seafood, and some dietary supplements. Manufacturers may also add it for its antioxidant properties.

Health notes

In the US, natural astaxanthin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food colorant and nutrient. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has also evaluated astaxanthin and permitted its use. Research suggests astaxanthin has antioxidant properties, but more studies are needed to fully understand its health effects at typical dietary intake levels.

Allergen info

Astaxanthin is derived from algae and is not one of the nine major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Natural Astaxanthin

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.