Free lutein is the non-esterified diol form of the xanthophyll carotenoid lutein, (3R,3'R,6'R)-beta,epsilon-carotene-3,3'-diol (CAS 127-40-2, C40H56O2, MW 568.9), derived from the petals of marigold (Tagetes erecta). It is manufactured by saponifying (de-esterifying) marigold oleoresin, which cleaves the fatty-acid chains present in the native pigment to yield crystalline free lutein. Unlike the family's lutein esters, both hydroxyl groups are unacylated, so the molecule carries no long-chain fatty-acid ballast and has a correspondingly lower molecular weight and higher lutein load per unit mass; the trade-off is that this crystalline free diol is more oxidation-prone than the esterified species and is typically stabilized in a matrix. It is supplied as a crystalline powder delivered in starch beadlets or as an oil suspension, standardized to a stated percentage of total lutein with minor zeaxanthin. We manufacture it in capsules, tablets, softgels, powders, gummies and liquids.
- Capsules
- Tablets
- Softgels
- Powders
- Gummies
- Liquids
Applications
Carotenoid single-ingredient supplements, multivitamins, softgels, gummies and liquid formats.
Documentation & quality
Every order is backed by the documents your quality team files, and the controls behind them.
Certificate of Analysis
every batchSpecification sheet
on requestAllergen statement
on requestGMO statement
on requestTraceability
on requestSafety Data Sheet
where applicableHow it’s controlled
- Identity verified on every incoming raw material
- Screened for heavy metals and microbial contaminants
- Full batch and lot traceability
- Produced under our certified GMP system