Marigold Extract Lutein

Marigold Extract (Lutein) is a natural carotenoid ingredient made from the petals of the African marigold, Tagetes erecta. The same bright orange flowers that decorate Indian temples and weddings are also the world's main commercial source of lutein, a yellow pigment that our eyes collect in the macula.

Arizone International supplies Marigold Extract standardised to lutein and zeaxanthin for supplement, food, beverage and animal feed manufacturers. Powder, oil suspension and beadlet forms are available in bulk.

Why Marigold for Lutein?

Lutein is found in many green leafy vegetables and in egg yolk, but only in small amounts. Marigold petals hold far higher levels, mostly in the form of lutein esters. This makes marigold the most practical raw material for commercial lutein production. India is among the leading suppliers, with large marigold cultivation, often through contract farming, in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Tamil Nadu.

After harvest, the flowers are dried, milled and extracted to produce an oleoresin rich in lutein esters. The oleoresin can be sold as is, or saponified and purified to give free lutein crystals.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin

• LuteinA xanthophyll carotenoid that, together with zeaxanthin, forms the macular pigment of the human eye.
• ZeaxanthinPresent naturally in marigold extract in smaller amounts, usually a few percent of total carotenoids.
• Free vs Ester FormFree lutein is purified from the esters. Ester forms are also used widely in supplements.
• Natural Yellow-Orange ColourMakes the extract useful as a food and feed colour.

Forms and Grades

• Lutein 5%, 10% and 20% powders and beadlets for tablets and capsules
• Lutein 20% oil suspension for softgels
• Lutein 80% to 90% crystals
• Marigold oleoresin for feed and colour use
• Water-dispersible grades for beverages and foods

Applications

The best known use of lutein is in eye-health supplements, often combined with zeaxanthin, bilberry, vitamin A, zinc and omega-3. Large studies such as AREDS2 in the United States helped establish lutein and zeaxanthin in eye-care formulations. Other uses include:

• Eye-care capsules, softgels and gummies
• Multivitamins and antioxidant blends
• Skin-health supplements
• Fortified foods, dairy and beverages
• Natural colour for bakery, confectionery and sauces
• Poultry feed to deepen egg-yolk and skin colour
• Aquaculture and pet food

Storage and Stability

Lutein is sensitive to light, heat and oxygen. Beadlet and microencapsulated forms are much more stable than plain powder. Keep all grades sealed in opaque packaging, ideally under nitrogen, and store in a cool, dry place.

Tips for Buyers and Formulators

Lutein is usually supplied as free lutein or lutein esters; state the form on the label. Store the extract cool and away from light, as lutein oxidises easily.

Why Choose Arizone International?

We work with Indian marigold processors to supply lutein in the form and strength you need. Each batch is tested by HPLC or UV for lutein content, and we share a certificate of analysis. Bulk supply, samples and private label finished products are all possible.

Share your required lutein level, form, quantity, packaging and destination to receive a quotation for Marigold Extract (Lutein).