Carotenoids

Carotenoids: Beta-carotene as provitamin A

Carotenoids are among the fat-soluble natural pigments. Many plants, such as tomatoes, carrots, and peppers, owe their orange, red, or yellow color to them. Carotenoids are widespread in nature and are produced by plants during photosynthesis.

Some carotenoids, like beta-carotene, can be converted into vitamin A. Since the human body cannot synthesize carotenoids itself, but they are essential for many metabolic processes, they must be ingested through plant foods.

The carotenoid beta-carotene is primarily found in carrots and peppers.