Research has confirmed that carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which can be used as a food coloring, as well as a precursor to vitamin A and a treatment for genetically related photosensitive skin diseases. With the trend in food coloring shifting towards natural or nature-identical colors replacing synthetic dyes, the development of beta-carotene aligns well with this transition. As the amount of beta-carotene extracted from algae is very small, the synthesis of beta-carotene has emerged and is widely used in the food industry, with most countries allowing it as a food colorant. Currently, the food industry has shown great interest in this oxygen-sensitive, insoluble, nature-identical coloring agent, leading to the development of a range of different formulations. These formulations include oil-soluble, as well as water-dispersible, forms that can be used for coloring both the oil and water phases in food. Formulated products that have been successfully developed include beta-carotene dispersants, beta-carotene powders, and beta-carotene emulsions.
Nutritional Properties of Beta-Carotene
Beta-carotene, as a precursor to vitamin A, has a better role than retinol (the active part of vitamin A). It not only can completely vitamin A to meet the daily requirements of the human body but also does not produce toxic effects even at high levels of intake. In fact, among all the carotenoids, beta-carotene has the highest vitamin A activity. According to data, 1g of beta-carotene is equivalent to 560,000 IU of vitamin A activity, which means that beta-carotene has one-sixth of the vitamin A activity of all-trans-retinol.
Application of Beta-Carotene in Carbonated Fruit Juice Beverages
Water-dispersible beta-carotene formulations are primarily used in the beverage industry. Generally, adding 5-15 mg/l of beta-carotene to beverages is sufficient to achieve the desired color stability effect. However, due to the complex composition of most beverages, testing must be conducted to determine the optimal concentration of beta-carotene. For example, if the beverage contains azo dyes, the concentration of beta-carotene needs to be increased to around 20-50 ppm to achieve the desired coloring effect. Prior to each production, a water-based solution of beta-carotene powder must be prepared at room temperature in order to achieve a homogeneous dispersion for coloring when used.
In order to achieve color stability in the production of carbonated composite fruit juice beverages with added vitamins. Firstly, the syrup and concentrated fruit juice are thoroughly mixed. To stabilize the beverage, hydrated locust bean gum is added to the syrup. The orange flavoring is then added, which can affect both the stability and hue of the colorants. On the other hand, the beta-carotene powder is dispersed in water at room temperature and added to the concentrated fruit juice, completing the preparation of the storage solution. At this stage, the vitamin mixture can be added to the preparation liquid.
In the production of carbonated beverages, the gel substance in the beta-carotene formulation product may react with ingredients in the pulp, resulting in precipitation and a decrease in color intensity. To prevent this phenomenon, it is necessary to homogenize the beta-carotene storage solution with concentrated juice, or a mixture of concentrated juice, syrup, and citric acid, under high pressure 1-2 times before filling. Afterward, the mixture should undergoization and be diluted with carbonated water. By using this method, carbonated fruit juice drinks can maintain their color even under sunlight exposure for several months.
In fact, the sensitivity of beta-carotene to light largely depends on the wavelength of light and the partial pressure of oxygen. In general, significantly reducing the oxygen content in the container and incorporating antioxidants can greatly improve the stability of the product. Compared to azo dyes, beta-carotene exhibits better color stability in the presence of antioxidants. Additionally, the addition of 20 to 200 mg/l of ascorbic acid or DL-α-tocopherol to beverages can also improve color stability while preserving flavor substances. It is worth mentioning that light not only degrades beta-carotene but also breaks down flavor components and ascorbic acid. Therefore, it is advisable to use dark-colored bottles such as amber glass to minimize light exposure.
The development of different formulations of beta-carotene products allows water-insoluble and light-sensitive natural beta-carotene to be used in a more manageable form by manufacturers. As a natural colorant, beta-carotene can be applied in various formulations in the food industry, generating hues ranging from yellow to orange-red. This makes it suitable for the current trend of transitioning from synthetic colors to natural colorant products.
HSF Biotech Fermented Beta-Carotene
As consumer preference continues to shift towards healthier and more natural alternatives, the demand for natural colorants in the food and beverage industry is on the rise. One such natural colorant is fermented beta-carotene.
HSF Biotech Company specializes in the production of fermented beta-carotene with different specifications, specifically tailored for use in carbonated beverages
Our production process begins with carefully selected natural ingredients, ensuring the highest quality and authenticity of our fermented beta-carotene. These ingredients undergo a fermentation process, where the yeast converts the precursor molecules into bioavailable forms of beta-carotene. Through precise control of temperature, pH, and fermentation time, we optimize the conversion efficiency and produce a concentrated beta-carotene extract.
We understand that carbonated beverages have diverse requirements when it comes to color intensity and stability. To cater to these specific needs, HSF Biotech Company offers fermented beta-carotene in various specifications, beverage manufacturers to choose the one that best suits their product formulations.
The production of fermented beta-carotene with different specifications for carbonated beverages provides a natural and appealing alternative to synthetic colorants. HSF Biotech Company is dedicated to supplying high-quality fermented beta-carotene that meets the specific requirements of beverage manufacturers. With our customizable solutions, we aim to assist our clients in creating visually appealing, stable, and nutritious carbonated beverages that align with evolving consumer preferences for natural and healthy choices.
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