Beta-carotene (β-carotene) is the best known carotenoid. This is due to the fact that it is found in many foods and has a high activity. Carotenoids are plant pigments that are responsible for the yellow, orange and red colors of some fruits and vegetables.

Beta-carotene is also known as provitamin A because it is converted in the liver and in the intestinal wall to vitamin A (retinol) as needed. The latter is found only in tissues of animal origin (especially in dairy products, in the liver of fish and animals), while β-carotene is found in plant tissues (especially in carrots).

Beta-carotene and retinol are required for normal growth and development, for tissue vitality and repair, and for the formation of teeth and bones.

The distinctive properties of β-carotene include non-toxicity compared to retinol and powerful antioxidant properties (1 molecule of beta-carotene prevents the production of 1000 free radicals or destroys them).

Benefits and role of beta-carotene in the human body:

1. Reduces the likelihood of developing certain types of cancer.

With a high concentration of beta-carotene in the body, protection against lung cancer and stomach cancer has been proven.

In some cases, a lack of β-carotene increases the likelihood of colon, breast, prostate, ovarian, and cervical cancers.

Scientific evidence has confirmed that low levels of this substance in the tissues of the cervix increase the likelihood of developing cancer, even if there is an optimal level of beta-carotene in the blood. Overcome the "tissue" deficiency by increasing the dose of this substance.

Drinking alcohol and smoking significantly reduce the content of β-carotene in the body.

2. Activates processes in the immune system:

• increases the level of phagocytes, as well as T- and B-lymphocytes;
• protects macrophages - cells that capture and excrete foreign microorganisms;
• form a connection between the cells of the immune system;
• increase the effect of interferon on the immune system.

3. Favorably affects vision.

Beta-carotene, being a powerful antioxidant, reverses the damage caused by free radicals, leading to the development of cataracts. Its additional intake reduces the likelihood of developing this disease.

4. Protects the cardiovascular system from various pathologies

Doses of beta-carotene in significant volumes reduce the risk of developing heart and vascular diseases. It is used as a prevention of atherosclerosis.

5. Protects the skin from the effects of UV rays.

Long-term beta-carotene supplementation reduces the risk of developing solar erythema and also reduces the chance of sunburn in people who are sensitive to sun exposure.

6. Promotes normal fertility.

7. Accelerates the healing process of wounds due to beneficial properties that have an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory focus.

beta-carotene in food

Daily intake of beta-carotene

As a daily intake of this substance, consider a value equal to 15 mg or 25,000 IU. It is recommended that you get beta-carotene from a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Possible signs of a lack of beta-carotene:

• deterioration of night vision;
• skin diseases;
• increased risk of infection;
• cardiovascular diseases;
• oncological pathologies.

Side effects of taking beta-carotene

As a rule, β-carotene is well tolerated due to very low toxicity. Unlike vitamin A, which can lead to liver damage or birth defects in excess, it is almost impossible to overdose on beta-carotene.

No side effects have been observed in pregnant or lactating women taking 50,000 IU per day. Very high doses of this substance (over 100,000 IU per day) can cause an orange coloration of the skin, which is harmless in fact.

Patients with diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, kidney and liver disease should take beta-carotene with caution.

Beta carotene: what is it, benefits for the body

• childhood we were told that carrots are very useful. We ate it with sugar or sour cream. Slightly yellowed corners of the lips or palms caused only emotion in our mothers and grandmothers. This approach was correct, since orange vegetables and berries are the highest content of much-needed beta-carotene.

Today we will consider the questions: why does the body need beta-carotene, what is its use and whether it is possible to provide the full need without taking pills.

beta carotene in foods

With food, a person receives both energy and useful substances. Therefore, to start eating right means to start taking care of your health. From a chemical point of view, betacarotene refers to unsaturated hydrocarbons. It is formed as a result of photosynthesis and is an orange-yellow pigment. Accordingly, it is contained in products of the same color:

• carrot;
• sea ​​​​buckthorn;
• sorrel;
• parsley;
• watercress;
• rose hip;
• spinach;
• celery;
• garlic;
• green onions;
• red sweet pepper;
• salad;
• apricots;
• pumpkin;
• peaches.

Animal products are also a source of vitamin A. However, here the content of this substance is significantly lower. So in one hundred grams of milk it is only 0.02 mg, in cottage cheese - 0.06 mg, in sour cream - 0.15 mg, in butter (it owes its yellowish tint to vitamin carotene) - 0.2 mg, in the liver - 1 mg. For example, in the same carrots it is 9 mg, and in sorrel - 7 mg.

Consuming beta carotene in its pure form will not bring any harm, since it is perfectly absorbed. It is impossible to overeat carrots, so do not limit yourself and your child. Fear that there will be an overabundance is not worth it. Moreover, the body tends to accumulate excess carotene in the fat layer, in order to then convert it into retinol.

In some, a large amount of this pigment is expressed in the fact that the skin of the palms and feet becomes a yellowish tint. You should not worry about this, since this is a normal reaction of the body, and not any pathology. When the supply of the substance stops, the skin takes on a natural appearance.

What it is

Beta carotene belongs to the group of carotenes. In total, there are more than three hundred of them in science, but this substance is one of the most needed. Not to be confused with carnitine (vitamin BT), which belongs to a completely different type of substance.

Food supplement E160a (beta carotene formula) is a natural dye. It is often used in the production of sweet carbonated drinks, juices, condensed milk, yogurt, mayonnaise, cakes, bakery products.

What is beta carotene for?

• the main property is that in the human body it is converted into vitamin A or retinol. This happens only when there is a deficiency of the latter. Moreover, in this form, the substance is absorbed much better than the “ready-made” retinol;
• enhances resistance to stress and emotional overload;
• vitamin antioxidant;
• protects cells from premature aging;
• reduces the risk of developing oncology and neoplasms (including fibroids);
• affects the regenerative processes in the skin;
• participates in the production of immunoglobulins;
• improves eyesight;
• protects against the toxic effects of tobacco smoke;
• indispensable for tanning: protects from ultraviolet radiation;
• in children increases resistance to diseases, counteracts free radicals;
• maintains mucous membranes in a healthy state;
• improves the functioning of the sex glands.

Deficiency of provitamin A in the body

Signs of a lack of retinol:

• hair loss, dandruff;
• nails begin to exfoliate and often break;
• increased sensitivity of the teeth;
• appear numerous rashes on the skin: pimples, blackheads;
• growth slows down in children;
• immunity falls. A person often suffers from acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections;
• visual acuity weakens: “night blindness”, a feeling of “sand in the eyes”.

Possible reasons for the development of deficiency:

• diseases of the liver and kidneys;
• lack of fats and proteins. Usually, this is a consequence of poor nutrition, diets, all kinds of food restrictions;
• seasonal beriberi;
• intestinal pathology;
• improper functioning of the pancreas;
• metabolic disorders.

Contraindications

With a balanced diet, when the diet has a lot of fresh vegetables and fruits, provitamin deficiency does not develop. Under certain circumstances, doctors have to prescribe beta-carotene tablets to prevent complications.

Such formulations are not drugs. . Their role is to restore the lack of nutrients. There are enough brands on the pharmaceutical market that produce capsules at various prices. They are analogues to each other, since the composition is approximately the same with a slight difference.

For example:

• Solgar (USA);
• Oksilik (Germany);
• Veteron (Russia);
• Vitrum (America);
• Sinergin (RF).

Release form:

• tablets;
• gelatin capsules;
• an oily solution, a few drops of which are added to water.

Beta-carotene preparations are commercially available and can be bought at many pharmacies without a prescription. You need to choose a brand that is suitable for you not according to reviews on the network or after interviewing friends, but only on the recommendation of a doctor. Preliminary consultation of a specialist is required, since the drugs have a number of contraindications. You can familiarize yourself with them at the appointment with the doctor, as well as by reading the text of the instructions for use:

1. Allergic reaction.
2. breastfeeding period.
3. Pregnant women are prescribed vitamin complexes to meet all the needs of the unborn child, reducing the risk of developing abnormalities. Often, the preparations contain vitamin A. By itself, it is not contraindicated. The main thing is to prevent its overabundance in the body. In this case, hypervitaminosis occurs, and then the load on the liver and pancreas of the mother and baby increases greatly.
4. It has been proven that children absorb beta-carotene worse than adults. Applied with caution.
5. Chronic renal failure.
6. Viral hepatitis.
7. In smokers, an excess of carotene can cause lung cancer.
8. Hypothyroidism.

Possible side effects:

• pain in the stomach and joints;
• bouts of nausea;
• vomit;
• skin court;
• loss of appetite;
• dizziness.

daily requirement

For adults, this is 1 mg of vitamin A (or 5 mg of carotene), for preschool children - 0.4 mg, for adolescents - 04, - 0.7 mg, for the elderly - 0.8 mg, for pregnant women - 0 .2 - 0.8 mg, for nursing mothers - 0.4 - 1.2 mg.

Moreover, if you divide the daily rate by three times and drink in the morning, afternoon and evening, then the substance will begin to be absorbed by the body better than in one go. It is believed that the benefits of beta-carotene are greater than pure vitamin A.

Cases when the body's need increases:

• stay in a hot climate (for example, vacation at sea);
• frequent x-ray examinations;
• during therapy drugs to lower cholesterol;
• when the work is connected with the constant presence at the computer monitor;
• when there is a lot of protein in the diet. A similar phenomenon is often observed in professional athletes;
• alcohol abuse.

Indications for appointment

1. The period of bearing a child.
2. Unbalanced nutrition.
3. Chronic ailments or recovery time after an infection.
4. Negative external factors. For example, unfavorable environmental conditions.
5. Great emotional and physical stress.
6. Cancer prevention.
7. Prevention of premature aging.
8. Gastric ulcer.
9. Dysbacteriosis.
10. Gastritis.
11. Eye diseases and visual impairment.
12. Helps to recover after surgery.

As a means for external use is used for:

• tonsillitis;
• psoriasis;
• excessive pigmentation;
• dermatoses;
• promotes rapid healing of wounds, burns, frostbite;
• vitiligo.

How is beta-carotene absorbed?

The substance is absorbed through the intestines with the help of bile. Without it, assimilation will not occur correctly. Much also depends on the degree of rupture of cell membranes in plant foods: that is, mashed potatoes or gruel are easier to break down. Fats are also needed: (that's why dairy products are needed), vitamins E and C to enhance the action.

Tips to help increase the absorption of provitamin:

• try to eat freshly prepared food whenever possible;
• store vegetables and fruits in a dark place, at a temperature not exceeding 25 degrees, since oxygen contributes to the rapid decomposition of hydrocarbons;
• season salads with sour cream or vegetable oil, cook cereals in milk;
• don't get carried away with diets. Beta carotene is a fat-soluble substance, and a lack of fat leads to improper absorption. And as a consequence of the deficit;
• It is useful to combine different dishes in your menu. It is necessary that a third of the daily norm comes from animal food, and 2/3 from plant food.

Crimean sea salt includes beta-carotene and all biocomponents in its crystal lattice, thus preserving the living biology of the sea. The pink color of the water in the salt lakes of the Crimea is due to the high concentration of unique wet algae in them, which is the only natural source in which the content of beta-carotene can reach 60-70% of its total content.

Beta-carotene provides the human body with provitamin A in an easily digestible form and in the required amount.

OBTAINING CAROTENES FROM THE ALGAE DUNALIELLA SALINA

IN THE CONDITIONS OF THE CRIMEAN SALT FIELDS

The authors:
Davidovich Nikolai Alexandrovich, PhD in Biology, Senior Researcher
Styupan Andrey Vitalievich

Introduction

Carotene (from the Latin carota - carrot) is a yellow-orange pigment synthesized by bacteria, fungi, algae, and higher plants. Its presence explains the yellow, orange, red color of fruits, roots, leaves of plants.

By its chemical nature, carotene is an unsaturated hydrocarbon from the group of terpenoids. Empirical formula C40H56, molecular weight 536.9. The chemical synthesis of β-carotene was carried out in 1956. There are several isomeric forms of carotene, among which β-carotene (beta-carotene) is the best known. Structural formula of β-carotene:

Insoluble in water, but readily soluble in organic solvents; belong to lipophilic compounds, i.e., soluble in oils. In crystalline form, it has a violet-red color, in an oil solution - from yellow to orange.

Solutions of carotenoids in organic solvents in spectrophotometric studies give characteristic absorption bands mainly in the visible region of the spectrum, and stereoisomers show them also in the ultraviolet region. This is one of the most accurate indicators used in the identification of these substances. Also characteristic is the feature of carotenoids to be selectively absorbed on mineral and some organic absorbents, which makes it possible to separate them using chromatographic methods. Certain carotenoids are characterized by some specific reactions, including color ones.

It should be borne in mind that carotenoids in their pure form are characterized by high lability - they are very sensitive to sunlight, air oxygen, heat, acids and alkalis. Under the influence of these unfavorable factors, they undergo oxidation and destruction. At the same time, being part of various complexes, they exhibit much greater stability.

Along with black-brown melanins, carotenes are the most common pigments in nature: about 100 million tons of them (more than 3 tons per second) are synthesized annually on an Earth scale. In nature, carotenoids can be found in various states: in the free form they are more often found in plant plastids, fish muscle tissue, bird eggs, in the form of fatty acid esters - in the chromatophores and epidermal structures of plants, in the form of carotene proteins - in the epidermal tissues of animals and etc.

Animals (including humans) are not able to synthesize carotenoids de novo, their intake depends only on food sources. Assimilation of carotenoids, like other lipids, occurs in the duodenal region of the small intestine. Under the influence of the gastrointestinal environment (for example, the acidity of gastric juice), the presence of specific protein receptors, carotenoids can be destroyed by oxidizing agents or enzymes or metabolized, for example, β-carotene into vitamin A. Vertebrates in the process of digestion are able to split the β-carotene molecule into two molecules of vitamin A Therefore, β-carotene is also called provitamin A. Provitamin properties of β-carotene and its oxidative conversion to vitamin A are common to all animals.

Carotene, which is a provitamin of vitamin A, is extremely important in human nutrition, it is indispensable for vision, growth, reproduction, protection against various bacterial and fungal diseases, normal functioning of the skin and mucous membranes. Beta-carotene is characterized by the highest ability known in nature to deactivate singlet oxygen. The latter has a high chemical activity, affects the processes associated with the destruction of various substances in the light, is responsible for DNA damage in living organisms, affects the skin aging process, etc. The average natural (without biological additives) intake of carotene with food in different countries is 1.8-5.0 mg/day. According to the methodological recommendations on the norms of rational nutrition "NORMS of physiological needs for energy and nutrients for various groups of the population of the Russian Federation" dated December 18, 2008 (MR 2.3.1.2432 -08) 1 physiological need for beta-carotene for adults - 5 mg / day (introduced for the first time). 6 micrograms of beta-carotene is equivalent to 1 microgram of vitamin A. There is no upper limit for beta-carotene intake; long-term use of beta-carotene is not accompanied by any side effects. With an excess of carotene in the body, a state of hypercarotenemia is observed - however, unlike excess vitamin A, carotene has low toxicity. Beta-carotene is registered as a food additive E160a.

The global market for carotenoids in 2000 was estimated at $786 million, including food use $209 million, feed additives $462 million, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics $115 million. The carotenoid market is expected to grow to $919 million by 2015 2. Beta-carotene accounts for about a third of the total carotenoid market. The cost of synthetic β-carotene is about $500/kg.

It should be pointed out that carotene obtained from natural sources refers to natural products, the need for which increases every year.

Natural Sources of Carotenoids and Their Uses

Dyes can be natural-identical (synthetic) or natural (natural).

Natural sources of carotenoids are very diverse, many of them are widely used to obtain carotenoid-containing products. In countries with a tropical climate, red palm oil and sweet potato tubers serve as a source of carotenoid-containing products. Citrus fruits, apricots, persimmons are quite rich in carotenoids. From the sources inherent in the middle latitudes, including the climatic zones of Ukraine, one can single out the fruits of carrots, pumpkins, tomatoes, sweet peppers, sea buckthorn, wild rose, mountain ash. At the same time, a number of carotenoid-containing preparations based on natural plant materials are produced by the Ukrainian pharmaceutical industry. In particular, rosehip oil is produced (contains at least 0.6 g/l of carotenoids), oil from sea buckthorn fruits (carotenoids content is at least 1.8 g/l).

Among natural dyes, the most popular is beta-carotene (E160a). According to the latest data, about 30% of the total funds spent by food manufacturers on the purchase of natural dyes are spent on this pigment.

One of the most valuable sources of natural beta-carotene is the algae D. salina, from which a dye containing 96% of this pigment is obtained. Palm oil carotene blend contains 35% alpha-carotene and 65% beta-carotene. By its nature, beta-carotene is a fat-soluble pigment. It is artificially brought to the form of a water-dispersed emulsion. Beverages require highly acid-resistant beta-carotene emulsions. If the emulsion breaks down during storage, a colored ring usually forms on the neck of the bottle. In order to avoid the manifestation of such a defect, it is necessary to use a dye with an emulsifying system, selected in accordance with the characteristics of the production and composition of the drink. Polysorbate 80, sorbitan monooleate, gums, sucrose esters (singly or in various combinations) are used as emulsifiers. The light fastness of beta-carotene is acceptable for clear packaged beverages, but it is greatly reduced in the presence of oxygen and enhanced by the addition of ascorbic acid.

Paprika (Е160с) is the next most consumed carotenoid dye in the world. Its market share in monetary terms is 20%. Paprika pigments are obtained from the oleoresins of the sweet pepper Capsicum annum L.

Paprika pigments are inherently fat soluble. Their water-dispersed emulsions are produced in forms suitable for obtaining both transparent and with varying degrees of turbidity solutions. Paprika pigments are sensitive to light and oxygen, but not sensitive to pH. Ascorbic acid, alphatocopherol and rosemary extract can be used to stabilize them. A well-purified dye at the dosages required for coloring does not impart noticeable foreign tastes and odors to the products.

Also, the yellow-orange natural dye annatto (E160b), obtained from the seeds of the Bixa orellana plant, belongs to the group of carotenoids. Annatto is native to Central and South America. Annatto is an easily cultivated tree that reaches a fruiting period of 4-5 years and yields for 20 years. Annatto is one of the most economically important natural dyes in the world. The largest producers of annatto seeds are Peru, Brazil and Kenya, while the largest importers are the US, Japan and Europe.

The fat-soluble pigment bixin is extracted from annatto seeds with ethanol or oil. The water-soluble pigment norbixin is obtained by alkaline hydrolysis of bixin. An aqueous solution of annatto is produced as an alkaline solution with a pH of 10.5, so care must be taken when handling it. Recently, the conversion of the carotenoid lycopene (the red pigment of tomato) to bixin has been investigated. Currently, work is underway to breed bixin-producing tomatoes. Bixin is slightly soluble in oils - 0.1–0.3% (w/w). It is sensitive to pH, lowering which shifts the hue from yellow-orange to pink. Acidity does not affect the stability of this pigment. Bixin has good thermal stability at temperatures not exceeding 100°C, but is rapidly destroyed at temperatures above 125°C. Bixin is resistant to oxidation, but sensitive to light, like other carotenoids. To increase stability, antioxidants are added to bixin-based dyes.

The share of bixin in the market of natural dyes is 7%. Water-soluble norbixin is available in standard (stable at pH about 4) and special acid-resistant (up to pH 2.5) forms. Also, on the basis of bixin, water-dispersed emulsions are produced, which make it possible to obtain cloudy solutions.

Methods for obtaining beta-carotene from natural raw materials

The oldest, but still in use, is the method of production from carrots. The method is characterized by extremely high labor intensity and low profitability: to obtain 1 kg of crystalline carotene, it is necessary to process about 15 tons of carrots, i.e. this is equal to its collection from 1 ha with an average yield.

In Ukraine, the predominant part of 80% beta-carotene is now produced from the biomass of the mucosal fungus Blakeslea trispora. The production uses waste from the flour-grinding, canning and meat-and-dairy industries. Carotene is extracted from the biomass of the fungus with an organic solvent in vegetable oil, or the resulting biomass is dried without extraction. In the first case, the degree of extraction of carotene is higher, up to 50%. In the second case, a powder with a beta-carotene content of 6-7% is obtained. The cost of obtaining a product using this technology is also high.

Benefits of using Dunaliella salina as a source of carotenoids

Dyes based on beta-carotene of natural origin have a higher stability than naturally identical ones. In addition, in natural-identical and microbiological (bacterial and funginal) beta-carotene, part of the pigment is in the form of sparingly soluble crystals. Carotene has many isomeric forms; the synthetic version does not allow achieving the required ratio of isomers, which exactly repeats the natural complex. The same applies to the accompanying carotenoids, including carotenes and xanthophylls.

Under conditions favorable for growth and reproduction, D. salina cells are green in color and contain only about 0.3% of β-carotene from dry weight, i.e. as much as the leaves of plants and cells of other non-carotene algae. Only under conditions that inhibit the growth and reproduction of cells, β-carotene accumulates in the latter in the form of orange oil globules located in the interthylakoid spaces of the chloroplast. Among the parameters that regulate the processes of growth, reproduction and carotenogenesis, the light intensity, the concentration of osmotically acting salts, temperature and the content of biogenic elements in the medium are of primary importance. The higher the illumination, the more intense carotenogenesis. Excessive accumulation of β-carotene in its cells is also facilitated by an increased concentration of osmotically acting salts in the environment (up to 5 M NaCl), extreme temperatures (above or below the growth optimum), lack of nutrients in the nutrient medium (especially nitrogen starvation). Thus, the biosynthesis of β-carotene in the cells of the microscopic algae Dunaliella salina is an easily regulated process, which means that the cost of β-carotene obtained from algae grown in non-sterile conditions in the open air will decrease in the future based on further improvement of the technological process.

Biology and taxonomy of algae

Dunaliella salina Teod. (Dunaliella saline) is a unicellular flagellated microalgae (Fig. 1) from the Green Algae Department.

Rice. 1 Dunaliella salina Teodoresco, seen under a microscope at various magnifications. The length of the scale bar is 20 µm.

Taxonomic position:

• Kingdom Plantae
• Class Chlorophyceae
• Division Chlorophycota
• Order Volvocales
• Family Dunaliellaceae
• Genus Dunaliella
• View (Species) Dunaliella salina

The genus Dunaliella includes 29 brackish, marine, freshwater and soil species; 6 of them were found on the territory of Ukraine exclusively in salt water bodies. Well-known Dunaliella salina is a saline Dunaliella that develops in hypersaline reservoirs of southern Ukraine, including the steppe Crimea. In mass quantities, it causes a red "bloom", especially pronounced during the summer evaporation of water from shallow lagoons. Sometimes on the surface of such lagoons a salt concentrate is formed in the form of plates of salt crystals4. Thus, Dunaliella salina is able to live in brine, in which the saturation point has been reached and crystallization and precipitation of salts occurs.

Algae cells of various shapes: oval, ellipsoid, ovoid, pear-shaped, sometimes spherical, cylindrical or spindle-shaped; radially or bilaterally symmetrical, rarely dorsiventral or slightly asymmetrical. Cell sizes are very variable. The length can be from 5 microns to 29 microns, the width is from 4 microns to 20 microns; cell volume from 70 cc to 4500 cc5. Chloroplast in color is most often green, sometimes yellow or brown. In shape, the chloroplast is usually cup-shaped with a pyrenoid and an eye, less often without them.

Unlike many other algae, Dunalielli cells lack a cellulose or pectin membrane and are surrounded only by a thin elastic protoplasmic membrane (plasmalemma). On both sides of the papilla, at the convex apical end of the cell, two flagella are attached, with the usual microstructure (9 + 2 microtubules). Usually the flagella are of the same length, equal to or greater than the length of the cell. In young, newly divided cells, one of the flagella may be shorter than the other. Like the whole cell, flagella are covered with a protoplasmic membrane. Algae cells are able to move due to the paddle-like movements of the flagella. Dunaliella exhibits a pronounced positive phototaxis.

Dunaliella salina is characterized by both asexual and sexual types of reproduction. The first is predominant. Cell division is longitudinal. The sequence of organelle division is not strictly determined and is easily disrupted, especially in older cultures. In this case, ugly forms are formed. Under adverse conditions, Dunaliella is able to form cysts of asexual origin. Cysts have a spherical shape, a thick double membrane and granular contents, the release of which during germination occurs through a gap in the membrane. Before the cyst germinates, its red content turns green and divides to form 2-4 cells. The sexual process in Dunaliella salina is of the hologamic type. Copulation can occur both in the light and in the dark. As a result of the fusion of two cells, an immobile zygote is formed, covered with a membrane (sometimes layered). Before germination, reduction division occurs with the formation of 2-32 cells. The number of the latter depends on the size of the zygote and the conditions in which it developed.

The study of the biology of D. salina and environmental factors causing its transition to the active accumulation of β-carotene in natural conditions showed that the biosynthesis of this compound is an adaptive reaction of organisms in response to extreme growth conditions, which include changes in salinity and mineral composition of the environment, temperature and illumination, as well as a combination of a set of these parameters.

Estimation of stocks of carotenoids in water bodies of salt mines of the Crimean Peninsula

We have explored several reservoirs of the salt industries of the Crimean peninsula and southern Ukraine, in particular Saki (Fig. 2), Sivash and Kherson salt industries.

Rice. 2. Saki salt industry. View of salt ponds from a height of 2 km. White - evaporated salt; the red-brown color of the pools is largely due to the high concentration of Dunaliella cells in the brine

Table 2 presents the average data for a series of observations for 2007. A total of 90 samples were processed. The most adequate for assessing the abundance of algae during the year are its modal values, which turned out to be in the range of 19–37 million cells/l.

Table 2. Average and modal abundance values ​​(million cells/l) of Dunaliella salina in the studied water bodies of the Kherson salt industry

The content of carotenes in a cell largely depends on the cell size and growth conditions. From 80 determinations, we found that the carotene content averaged 0.69 ng/cell with a very wide variation from 0.03 to 31.26 ng/cell. Note that a strong variation of the initial parameters does not allow us to estimate the content of carotenes per cell for each specific case with a high probability of an event. In addition, it is not entirely correct to use the obtained average value to estimate the content of carotenes in a liter of water according to the data on the number of cells in the studied water bodies, also for the reason that the dependence of the concentration of carotenes (mg/l) on the concentration of cells (million cells/l) in water, as it turned out, is non-linear (Fig. 3) and is well described by the equation:

Rice. Fig. 3. Dependence of the concentration of carotenes (mg/l) on the concentration of cells (million cells/l) in the studied reservoirs.

where х is the concentration of cells, million cells/l; y is the concentration of carotenes, mg/L.

Taking into account the modal concentrations of cells in water bodies, and using the resulting equation, we get that the “usual” (most common) content of carotenes in these water bodies (according to samples taken) is 3.42–4.51 mg/l.

The actual distribution of carotene content in 1 liter of water according to the frequency of occurrence in 80 samples from the studied reservoirs, shown in fig. 4 confirms the calculation made.

Rice. Fig. 4. Distribution of carotene content (mg/l) according to the frequency of occurrence in 80 samples from the studied reservoirs.

Thus, on one square meter of the pool with an average brine layer thickness of 25 cm, the current carotene content will be 855–1128 mg, which corresponds to 8.6–11.3 kg/ha. Let us emphasize that such a content of carotene is typical for the reservoirs of salt mines in their “natural” state, aimed at obtaining and extracting salt, when the goal of obtaining carotene as a production product is not set. Sometimes (6% of cases) under natural conditions in water bodies, very high concentrations of carotenes were reached, exceeding 50 mg/l, of which in two cases - more than 100 mg/l at a cell concentration of more than 3 billion/l.

Practice shows that the concentration of carotenes in brine can be increased tens and hundreds of times using the following technological methods:

• managed (in existing reservoirs) cultivation of algae using optimal salinity regimes, the introduction of biogenic elements and regulation of the composition of salts;
• initiation of the accumulation of carotenes in algae cells when the salinity regimes, illumination of the layer (regulation of the thickness of the water layer), concentration of biogenic elements (especially nitrogen) are properly changed;
• protection of the algal population from predators (crustacean Artemia salina) by changing salinity;
• settling, using the phenomenon of phototaxis of algae;
• flotation.

Further co-precipitation of carotene with magnesium hydroxide makes it possible to further increase the concentration of carotene and obtain a product (paste) that allows long-term storage of carotene without decomposition. This is very important, given the seasonality of algae vegetation in natural reservoirs; the possibility of subsequent processing of the pasta and the extraction of carotene from it in the winter, less busy months opens up.

Previous experience in obtaining carotene in the conditions of salty estuaries in the south of Ukraine

The method of mass cultivation of D. salina for the purpose of semi-industrial production of β-carotene was the first to form the basis for the creation of an experimental carotene farm with an area of ​​0.5 ha on the basis of the Saki chemical plant in the Crimea in 1965-1968 (Fig. 56). For the cultivation of algae, cheap magnesium chloride brine and fertilizers (superphosphate, ammonium nitrate, potassium salt, etc.) were used. The experimental farm had fifteen 200-liter plastic trays, four one-cube and four five-cube concrete pools in which seed was propagated, as well as a number of industrial pools with an earthen bottom (Fig. 5), in which the second stage took place - the accumulation of carotene. Experiments carried out on this farm in 1965-1968 showed the possibility of obtaining in the south of Ukraine up to 120 kg of carotene / ha during the growing season (7 months).

Leading manufacturers and examples of products containing Dunaliella salina carotene

Mass cultivation of Dunaliella salina in order to obtain beta-carotene is carried out today in Australia, Israel, Spain, China, and the USA. The world's largest biotech firms: Betatene Pty Ltd in southern Australia and Western Biotechnology Pty Ltd in western Australia, part of the international corporation Cognis7, have over 800 hectares of Dunaliella ponds (Figure 6).

In the US, Cyanotech Inc. (Figure 7) and Microbio Resources, Inc. (San Diego, California, USA), each produce 1.5 tons of β-carotene per year from Dunalielli biomass. Microbio Resources is said to have invested more than US$15 million to grow Dunaliella and carotene from Dunaliella.

There are also large beta-carotene producers in India (Arora aromatics, Uttar Pradesh) and China (Shandong Binzhou Tianjian Biotechnology Co., Ltd.)8. For example, Arora aromatics is ready to supply 5 tons of Dunaliella powder (dry biomass) per month.

Mass production of carotene has been established in Israel (Nature Beta Technologies9).

In Ukraine and Russia, the only today (according to the company itself) manufacturer of natural carotenoids from the Blakeslea mushroom is the group "NPP" VITAN "10. The company produces and sells such products as:

• Biomass of beta-carotene with a beta-carotene content of 6-7%.
• Lycopene biomass with 3-5% lycopene content.
• Oil solutions of beta-carotene in refined deodorized sunflower oil containing 0.2 to 1.0% beta.
• Oil suspension of beta-carotene 2.5...30%
• Beta Carotene Crystals 95%
• Dietary supplement "Karenol+" contains 0.2% solution of beta-carotene in sunflower oil.
• Carotene oil contains 0.015% beta-carotene dissolved in sunflower oil.

Conclusion

World experience in obtaining carotenes from the brackish unicellular alga Dunaliella salina shows not only the possibility, but also the promise of this biotechnological direction. The conditions of the reservoirs of the Crimea and the south of Ukraine provide a sufficient raw material base for the production of carotene. Properly used technological methods are able to significantly increase the yield of the final product. The previous, generally positive experience of growing algae on a pilot scale testifies to the reality of this project.

Carotenoids are present in many plant foods. Despite this, it is quite difficult to make a tasty and at the same time healthy diet. In addition to the fact that nutrition should be as diverse as possible, you need to know where carotene is contained and in what form it is better absorbed, as well as to have information about the symptoms of a lack or overdose of a substance.

What foods contain beta-carotene

Of course, in carrots. And not only in it, but also in any vegetable, painted in red and yellow colors. In addition, beta-carotene is present in many leafy crops where the chlorophyll covers the orange tint. By autumn, the green pigment disintegrates and we see brown leaves and bushes.

It is interesting. The least beta-carotene is found in yellow vegetables and fruits, a little more in orange and a record amount in rich red plants.

Foods rich in carotene:

• vegetables - green peas, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, broccoli, sweet peppers, zucchini, cabbage, spinach, pumpkin and carrots;
• fruits - persimmons, nectarines, plums, mangoes, cherries, peaches, apricots, melons;
• berries - black and red currants, blueberries, gooseberries, rose hips.

The amount of provitamin A in plants depends on the season and degree of maturity. Most of the substance is found in vegetables grown under the open sun on ecologically clean and fertile soils.

Among other products - sources of beta-carotene - green onions, various leafy lettuces, lettuce, sorrel, mustard, beet and carrot tops, spinach can be noted. A lot of provitamin A and in natural sea salt.

It will seem surprising to many, but even cucumber contains beta-carotene. Of course, the β-isomer itself is not much in greenery, only 1% of the daily value. But the vegetable is rich in carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin - 100 g of the product contains 383% of the daily dose.

These substances, like beta-carotene, are able to accumulate in the tissues of the eye, providing protection and visual acuity.

It is interesting. A huge amount of provitamin A is found in green seaweeds. In recent years, many successful attempts have been made to cultivate this amazing plant in limited reservoirs. So, back in 2010, Orenburg scientists began to grow useful algae in one of the lakes of Sol-Iletsk.

Which root crop contains more carotene

Carrots have always been considered the champion in the amount of provitamin A. 100 grams of vegetable contains at least 6-7 mg of a useful substance. To meet the daily requirement of an adult for beta-carotene, you only need a couple of fresh and juicy root vegetables.

However, recent studies have found that carotene in pumpkin is no less than in carrots. It turns out that 100 grams of gourds contain 3100 micrograms of plant pigment, which is 62% of the daily requirement. To get the most out of pumpkin, cook it in the oven or over low heat, adding milk or butter.

Where is beta-carotene found?

Carotene in food is one of the ways to compensate for vitamin A deficiency in the body. But for this, one should know not only what the plant pigment contains, but also in what quantities it is present.

With this information, you can make a very tasty and healthy diet for every day, both for a child and for an adult.

Let's make a table of the content of beta-carotene in products.

Products	Provitamin A (mg/100 grams)
Carrot
Pumpkin
Sweet potato (sweet potato)
Sea ​​buckthorn
Sorrel
Parsley, greens
Rosehip berries
Spinach
Sweet pepper
Mango
Green onion, feather
Melon
Apricots, fresh
tomatoes
Peaches
Persimmon
Green peas
Corn
Plum
Cherry
fresh cucumber

The table below shows which foods contain the highest amount of beta-carotene. These should be included in your daily diet.

Attention. The level of provitamin A in carrots largely depends on the variety of the root crop. This should be taken into account when compiling a diet.

It is not recommended to keep vegetables, fruits and herbs in the light for a long time without packaging - this is fraught with the loss of a significant amount of nutrients and a decrease in the nutritional value of products. Fast freezing of plants, on the contrary, completely preserves their biological activity. Enhance the action of carotene tocopherol and ascorbic acid.

As a supplement to foods to increase the level of carotene in the body, dietary supplements can be used, for example, the food supplement Beta Carotene from Solgar. .

Daily intake of beta-carotene

In some circumstances, significantly more beta-carotene is required:

• severe deficiency of vitamin A;
• pregnancy and lactation;
• serious sports and mental stress;
• stress or period of illness;
• predisposition to cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis;
• cancer alertness;
• living in ecologically unfavorable areas or working in hazardous industries;
• increased eye strain, especially in children and students.

According to physicians, in the considered cases, the excess of the average daily norm of beta-carotene is quite justified. In addition, large portions of provitamin A are completely safe for the body and can only lead to temporary yellowing of the skin. You can get rid of the unpleasant phenomenon by simply adjusting the diet.

carotene in carrots

Carrots are considered the leader in the content of beta-carotene. Its amount depends on the variety and increases markedly in bright orange, sugary vegetables with a small core.

The sweet root crop is rich not only in β-carotene, but also in alpha-carotene (69% of the daily value), as well as other beneficial substances: folic acid, boron, vanadium, silicon, manganese, molybdenum, rubidium, cobalt, potassium.

Attention. Carrots are capable of accumulating the highly toxic microelement mercury, as well as arsenic and strontium. Therefore, it is better to eat root crops grown by one's own hands.

The sometimes greening of the tops is due to the accumulation of chlorophyll in the tissues of the vegetable. These parts may taste bitter, but they are quite edible after boiling.

How is Carotene from Carrots Absorbed?

The orange vegetable can be consumed raw or stewed. Oddly enough, but in the latter case, it turns out to be more useful - it is better and faster absorbed, and it also contains 14% more carotene.

In order not to lose part of the useful vitamin during cooking, the pan should be kept closed. A slow-cooked dish will have a richer color and a pleasant taste.

A vinaigrette is made from ready-made carrots, adding vegetable oil to it, fried and put in soups or used as a side dish for meat and meatballs.

The stewed vegetable is especially indicated for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract - it does not cause flatulence, is easily digested and does not irritate the mucous membranes.

For lovers of raw carrots, it is better to gnaw it whole, having previously eaten 20-25 grams of butter. However, this method of consumption is not very comfortable, and not everyone likes the taste of a simple root crop. Alternatively, you can make a delicious salad from a fresh vegetable by adding sour cream, sugar or raisins to the dish, pour over with olive oil or milk.

Carrot juice is very rich in carotene, but only freshly prepared. It should not be used with flour products and delicacies, although for a better taste, sweet lovers can add a spoonful of honey.

Advice. The tops of the root crop can also be used as food. Greens contain a lot of carotene, so they are often put in salads or added to soups.

Varieties of carrots with a high content of carotene

Scientists say that the amount of provitamin A depends on the degree of maturity of the root crops, their storage and harvesting time. However, if the vegetable initially had a lot of carotene, then it will remain more after all the manipulations.

Therefore, for cultivation on your own plot, it is better to choose root crops with a high content of provitamin A.

Carrot variety	Description
Sweet Tooth F1	Excellent hybrid, sweet and juicy. Suitable for making juices and baby food. Harvest.
Crofton F1	The hybrid has a very long root crop, excellent keeping quality and taste.
Leander	Good old variety. Long shelf life, sweet and fruitful.
Major F1	Hybrid with a long, bright root crop. Very juicy.
Niagara F1	Beautiful, large carrots of late ripening.
Nebula F1	A medium-sized vegetable, cylindrical in shape. Productive and sweet.
autumn king	A proven variety with a juicy spindle-shaped root crop. Well kept.

This is not a complete list of high-carotene carrots. You can also note the variety of September, hybrids Romans F1, Santa Cruz F1, Siroko F1 and Tsetor F1.

Provitamin A, contained in plant foods, is very useful and completely safe for the body. In addition, it is available and cheap. To cover the daily need for carotene, 1-2 carrots are enough, which can be eaten raw or boiled. There will be benefits in both cases.

All materials on the site are presented for informational purposes only. Before using any means, consultation with a doctor is MANDATORY!

The human body needs a continuous supply of beta-carotene (β-carotene) through food, because it cannot produce it on its own. Carotene acts as a natural precursor of vitamin A - one of the most important substances for the adequate functioning and health of our body.

It is useful to get acquainted with its properties, mechanism of action, sources, physiological norm, manifestations of deficiency, as well as potential harm. Knowing about beta-carotene will help you optimally take it for your own good.

What is beta carotene

The substance belongs to carotenoids - provitamins of retinol (vitamin A). Unlike alpha-carotene, beta-carotene is absorbed by our body twice as intensively, therefore, from a biological point of view, it is more accessible and valuable.

Carotenoid compounds arise in plant tissues due to photosynthesis, and are also produced by algae, fungi, and bacteria. In animal products, beta-carotene is not found, it contains other precursors of vitamin A - retinoids.

The presence of beta-carotene in a particular plant is eloquently indicated by their color - yellow, orange, scarlet, purple. In fact, β-carotene is a natural yellow pigment that colors the peel and pulp of vegetables, berries, and fruits. But even green herbs and leaves are rich in its content. This is clearly seen in autumn, when the green chlorophyll is destroyed and the greens turn yellow. Therefore, lettuce leaves, table greens are no less valuable source of carotene than yellow and orange fruits.

For industrial purposes, beta-carotene is used as a food coloring (international code E160a). It is extracted only from natural sources - the pulp of carrots, pumpkins, and also microbiological synthesis is used. The release of a chemical analogue is rarely practiced due to inexpediency. Therefore, the produced carotene for various purposes is mainly of a natural formula, since it is extracted from a natural source.

What foods contain beta-carotene

Any plant product with a bright color (fruits, berries, herbs) is a natural source of beta-carotene.

Substance champions:

• carrot;
• pumpkin;
• melon;
• persimmon;
• mango;
• Bell pepper;
• chilli;
• tomatoes;
• lettuce leaves;
• sorrel;
• broccoli;
• peach;
• plums;
• apricot;
• grapefruit;
• currant;
• cranberry;
• blueberry;
• spinach;
• gooseberry.

Also, beta-carotene is found inside sea salt crystals as a product of algae synthesis. Lake Sysak is popular on the Crimean peninsula, serving as a unique salt source of β-carotene.

Daily intake of beta-carotene

The intake of beta-carotene into the body does not mean its complete assimilation. The pigment dissolves in the fatty medium, therefore it is absorbed with a sufficient amount of fat. A low-calorie, oil-restricting diet prevents the conversion of beta-carotene to vitamin A.

In terms of biochemical availability, 6 g of pure beta-carotene corresponds to 1 g of vitamin A in the form of retinol. The absorption of a substance is strongly influenced by the presence of fat during the transformation of β-carotene into retinol:

• pure β-carotene dissolved in a fatty medium will be absorbed by 50%;
• natural beta-carotene, extracted by the body from the product, will be absorbed by 8.3%;
• other carotenoids from a natural source, including alpha-carotene and gamma-carotene, will be absorbed by 4.16%.

The physiological norm of beta-carotene is estimated at 5-7 mg per day for adults. The child's body needs the intake of 1.8 - 3 mg of the substance.

The upper limit has not been established - organic carotene, even when used in high doses, does not give any negative symptoms. Our body stores the substance in the liver and fat, turning it into vitamin A only as needed. Unused for these purposes, carotene works as an effective antioxidant. It captures aggressive cells, binds and safely removes them, neutralizing their harm.

The benefits and harms of beta-carotene

Studies unconditionally established the beneficial effect of carotene on the human body. Carotenoids, unlike animal retinoids, are safe at any dose. Unless the skin acquires a yellowish tint (carotenoderma) until the substance is removed.

Do not confuse the harm from an overdose of vitamin A, which threatens with big problems, especially for pregnant women and smokers. This does not apply to carotene - the compound is completely harmless. An excess of carotenoids does not mean a glut of vitamin A - the body transforms carotene into retinol when it is deficient in the latter. Therefore, an overdose of beta-carotene does not mean an overdose of vitamin A, against which doctors warn.

What benefits our body derives from beta-carotene:

• active action of a powerful antioxidant;
• protection of cells from the harm of free radicals;
• reducing the risk of cancerous growths;
• support for visual acuity, eye health;
• radiation protection;
• replenishment of the body with vitamin A;
• ensuring a healthy condition of the skin, mucous membranes, epithelium of internal organs.

Carotene activates weak immunity, and a duet with vitamin C helps to quickly overcome respiratory infections, flu, respiratory diseases, and colds.

How does carotene deficiency manifest itself?

Lack of carotenoids turns into health problems. Studies have found that people who get a meager amount of carotene from food are 8 times more likely to get cancer. In addition, a deficiency of beta-carotene affects visual acuity, causes dryness of the sclera, coarsening and early aging of the skin, frequent infections with a severe course.

If the diet, in addition to carotene itself, is poor in vitamin A, then the person suffers from night blindness, frequent infections, ulcers, brittle nails and hair. The immune barrier is weakened, tissues suffer from oxidation, free radical attacks. Against the background of deficiency, infertility develops, tumors grow, intrauterine development of the embryo is disturbed, and endocrine disruptions occur.

With a lack of beta-carotene, its intake is indicated in order to remove or weaken the negative manifestations of deficiency.

Indications for taking carotene

Organic carotene in the form of a finished product has found application as a therapeutic and prophylactic agent.

He is appointed:

• with a deficiency of retinol;
• to stimulate the immune barrier;
• for cancer prevention;
• persons experiencing the negative impact of the environment (bad ecology, hazardous production, radiation, irradiation);
• to prevent early skin aging;
• athletes, people of hard work, experiencing heavy loads;
• with ulcerative conditions, infections;
• to improve vision.

A number of competent scientists say that it is enough to eat 1 medium carrot daily to adequately supply the body with beta-carotene.

Contraindications for beta-carotene

Reliably established contraindication for carotene is its persistent intolerance, fraught with allergies.

In parallel, there are unconfirmed data that carotene in excessive doses does not reduce, but increases the risk of cancer for smokers. Other studies that studied the action of beta-carotene did not reveal a similar effect. On the contrary, the control group of smokers who did not receive the substance showed a serious risk of tumors, exceeding the group receiving carotene several times.

Scientists today agree on the harmlessness of organic β-carotene, emphasizing its vital necessity and undoubted benefits.

Most Popular Beta-Carotene Supplements

Table of applicability of drugs with Beta-Carotene

• Leukoplakia
  150,000 IU twice a week
  Beta-carotene, the most widely used supplement in the treatment of leukoplakia, increases remission rates.
• Lungs' cancer
  On doctor's recommendation
  Beta-carotene is considered effective in reducing the risk of cancer in non-smokers. Smokers should avoid beta-carotene supplements, including multivitamins.
• night blindness
  With a deficiency: 10000-25000 ME / day
  Night blindness can be an early sign of vitamin A deficiency. Supplementing with beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body, can help correct this deficiency and improve symptoms of night blindness.
• Light sensitivity
  100000-300000 ME/day under medical supervision
  Beta-carotene is able to protect against free radicals caused by UV exposure and may help increase your tolerance to sunlight.
• Asthma
  64 mg per day from food
  Some researchers have suggested that asthma attacks during exercise may be caused by free radicals generated during exercise. Supplementation with beta-carotene, an antioxidant, protects against free radicals and may prevent these attacks.
• Immunity
  25,000-100,000 IU per day, but ONLY for NON-SMOKERS
  Beta-carotene increases the number of immune cells and their activity.
• pancreatic insufficiency
  9000 ME/day
  Taking antioxidant supplements such as beta-carotene can reduce pain and prevent recurrences of pancreatitis.
• Sunburn
  6 mg/day natural beta-carotene during sun exposure
  Beta-carotene supplements can help protect your skin from UV rays and sunburn.
• age dementia
  50 mg daily
  In one study, long-term beta-carotene supplementation slowed cognitive decline in middle-aged and healthy men.
• Alcohol addiction
  On doctor's recommendation
  Patients suffering from alcohol dependence are found to be deficient in many vitamins, including vitamin A. Therefore, taking beta-carotene can be effective in the treatment of alcohol dependence.
• Cataract
  On doctor's recommendation
  People who eat fruits and vegetables rich in beta-carotene have a lower risk of developing cataracts.
• Gastritis
  On doctor's recommendation
  The antioxidant beta-carotene may reduce the amount of free radicals in the stomach, leading to improvements in people with gastritis in some studies.
• heart attack
  On doctor's recommendation
  Supplementation with beta-carotene may reduce the chance of a heart attack and may improve the condition of people who have already had a heart attack.
• AIDS (HIV)
  On doctor's recommendation
  HIV-positive patients often have a general vitamin deficiency, so supplementation with beta-carotene may be effective in alleviating the general condition of the patient.
• Macular degeneration
  On doctor's recommendation
  Sunlight causes oxidative damage to the eyes, which can lead to macular degeneration. Beta-carotene protects against oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of macular degeneration.
• sickle cell anemia
  On doctor's recommendation
  Patients with sickle cell anemia tend to have low levels of antioxidants that protect cells. Beta-carotene supplements can help correct this deficiency.

Background: green - scientifically proven, orange - insufficient evidence, white - no studies