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Zeaxanthin

Zeaxanthin suppliers and sourcing guide

Zeaxanthin is a yellow-orange xanthophyll carotenoid and an isomer of lutein. Commercial sources include marigold (Tagetes erecta) oleoresin, where it occurs alongside lutein, high-zeaxanthin marigold and paprika (Capsicum annuum) extracts, chemical synthesis, and fermentation; meso-zeaxanthin is made by isomerizing lutein. Brands usually buy it as oil suspensions or beadlets, often combined with lutein, at a declared zeaxanthin content and isomer.

See suppliersWhat to ask for on the COA
Also known as
3R,3'R-Zeaxanthin · Meso-zeaxanthin · beta,beta-Carotene-3,3'-diol
Facts checked
November 2026

Forms and grades of zeaxanthin

Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.

  • Marigold-derived zeaxanthin

    Zeaxanthin from marigold oleoresin, sold alone from high-zeaxanthin sources or as part of lutein products.

  • Paprika-derived zeaxanthin

    Zeaxanthin concentrated from Capsicum annuum, sold as oil suspension or beadlets.

  • Meso-zeaxanthin

    The 3R,3'S isomer, made from marigold lutein, usually sold in blends with lutein and zeaxanthin.

  • Synthetic or fermentation-derived

    Nature-identical 3R,3'R-zeaxanthin made by synthesis or microbial fermentation.

  • Beadlets and oil suspensions

    Zeaxanthin diluted in oil for softgels or in an encapsulating matrix for tablets and powders.

What to check on the COA

Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.

Zeaxanthin and lutein (HPLC)
Zeaxanthin and lutein by HPLC, reported as free carotenoid.
Isomer profile (chiral HPLC)
RR-, RS- (meso) and SS-zeaxanthin by chiral HPLC, which shows the source and is needed when a specific isomer is on the label.
Total carotenoids (UV-Vis)
Total carotenoids by spectrophotometry as a cross-check.
Residual solvents
Extraction or synthesis solvents against the buyer's limits.
Heavy metals and microbiology
Lead, arsenic, cadmium and mercury by ICP-MS, plus total plate count, yeast and mold, and pathogens.
Peroxide value
For oil suspensions, a measure of oil oxidation.

Storage, lots and expiry

Storage and shelf life

Keep zeaxanthin in sealed, nitrogen-flushed, light-proof containers and follow the supplier's temperature instructions; oxygen, light and heat break it down. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification and confirmed by HPLC retest.

Lots and expiry dates

Record zeaxanthin, lutein and, where relevant, isomer content for each lot. Plan overage from the supplier's stability data and rotate stock first-expired, first-out.

Regulatory status

Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.

This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.

Zeaxanthin suppliers

Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.

We are checking zeaxanthin suppliers now

Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.

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Frequently asked questions

What forms of zeaxanthin can brands buy?

Common forms include marigold-derived zeaxanthin, paprika-derived zeaxanthin, meso-zeaxanthin, synthetic or fermentation-derived and beadlets and oil suspensions. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.

What should the COA for zeaxanthin include?

Expect zeaxanthin and lutein (HPLC), isomer profile (chiral HPLC), total carotenoids (UV-Vis), residual solvents, heavy metals and microbiology and peroxide value, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.

How should zeaxanthin be stored?

Keep zeaxanthin in sealed, nitrogen-flushed, light-proof containers and follow the supplier's temperature instructions; oxygen, light and heat break it down. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification and confirmed by HPLC retest.

What is the regulatory status of zeaxanthin?

Health Canada's marigold extract and isolates (lutein and zeaxanthin) monograph lists zeaxanthin from Tagetes erecta herb flowering oleoresin and synthetic zeaxanthin as medicinal ingredients. GRN 639, for zeaxanthin from marigold from Kemin Foods, closed in September 2016 with FDA having no questions, noting that some uses may require a color additive listing. GRN 588, for zeaxanthin from paprika (Capsicum annuum) from OmniActive Health Technologies, closed in February 2016 with FDA having no questions. GRN 481, for meso-zeaxanthin from Industrial Organical S.A. de C.V., closed in April 2014 with FDA having no questions.

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