Lutein ester
Lutein Ester Manufacturer | Stable Eye Health Ingredient (CAS: 547-17-1) Headline: Lutein Ester Powder & Oil | High Stability Precursor to Lutein (CAS: 547-17-1) Sub-info: Assay 10% / 20% (Powder & Oil) | Extracted from Marigold Flowers | Enhanced Stability | Non-GMO. USP: • Superior Stability: Lutein Ester is naturally protected by fatty acids, making it significantly more resistant to heat and light than free Lutein. • High Bioavailability: Efficiently hydrolyzed into free Lutein in the small intestine; clinically proven to increase Macular Pigment Optical Density (MPOD). • Natural Source: Derived from premium Marigold (Tagetes erecta) oleoresin through a gentle extraction process.
Introduction
Lutein Ester (CAS: 547-17-1) is the naturally occurring form of Lutein found in most plants, particularly Marigold flowers. Chemically, it consists of a Lutein molecule linked to two fatty acid molecules (typically palmitic acid).
While "Free Lutein" is often used, Lutein Ester offers a distinct advantage for formulation: Stability. The ester bonds protect the carotenoid structure from oxidation during storage and processing. Once ingested, it is cleaved by pancreatic lipase in the gut to release free Lutein, which is then absorbed into the bloodstream and deposited in the retina's macula. We offer Lutein Ester Beadlets (CWS) for tablets/beverages and Oil Suspension for softgels.
Category：
Keywords：
lutein
ester
naturally
Functions
1.Blue Light Filtration (Retinal Protection)
Lutein is concentrated in the macula of the eye. It acts as "internal sunglasses," filtering out high-energy blue light (from screens and sunlight) before it can damage the photoreceptor cells, reducing the risk of oxidative stress.
2.Prevention of AMD (Age-Related Macular Degeneration)
Epidemiological studies suggest that higher dietary intake of Lutein Esters is associated with a reduced risk of developing late-stage AMD and cataracts, helping to maintain visual acuity in aging populations.
3.Skin Health (Antioxidant)
Beyond eyes, Lutein Ester supports skin hydration and elasticity. Its antioxidant properties protect skin lipids from UV-induced peroxidation.
Applications
1.Eye Health Softgels
• Raw Material: Lutein Ester 20% Oil Suspension.
• Benefit: Ideal for softgel encapsulation; excellent flowability and uniformity. The ester form provides longer shelf-life stability in the capsule.
2.Tablets & Hard Capsules
• Raw Material: Lutein Ester 10% / 20% CWS Beadlets.
• Benefit: Microencapsulated for pressure resistance during tableting. Cold Water Soluble (CWS) for fast dispersion.
3.Functional Dairy & Beverages
• Usage: Fortified milk powders, Eye-care yogurt drinks.
• Benefit: The ester form mimics the natural presence of lutein in vegetables, making it a "nature-identical" choice for food fortification.
Flow Chart
Marigold Extraction & Esterification Control
1.Raw Material: Marigold Flower Petals (Harvested & Fermented/Silage).
2.Extraction: Solvent extraction (Hexane) to obtain Marigold Oleoresin.
3.Refining: Saponification (Optional - omitted for Ester grade) or Purification to concentrate the Esters.
4.Crystal Isolation: Obtaining high-purity Lutein Ester crystals.
5.Formulation:
• For Oil: Dispersing crystals in vegetable oil (Sunflower/Safflower).
• For Powder: Microencapsulation with Starch/Gum Arabic carrier (Spray Drying).
6.Sieving: Particle size control.
7.QC Testing: UV/HPLC Assay & Heavy Metals check.
8.Packing: Aluminum tins or Vacuum bags.
Quality Standard of Lactoferrin
Product: Lutein Ester 20% Oil Suspension
| Item | Specification | Result |
| Appearance | Reddish-orange oily liquid | Conforms |
| Lutein Ester Content | ≥ 20.0% (UV-Vis) | 21.5% |
| Total Carotenoids | ≥ 21.0% | 22.1% |
| Peroxide Value | ≤ 10.0 meq/kg | 3.5 meq/kg |
| Acid Value | ≤ 3.0 mg KOH/g | 0.8 mg KOH/g |
| Heavy Metals (Pb) | ≤ 1.0 ppm | Conforms |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤ 1.0 ppm | Conforms |
| Solvent Residue | ≤ 50 ppm | < 10 ppm |
| Microbiology | Total Plate Count < 1000 cfu/g | < 100 cfu/g |
Method of Analysis of Lactoferrin
UV-Vis Spectrophotometry
• Why: Standard industry method for Total Carotenoids/Lutein Ester quantification.
• Note: When comparing Lutein vs. Lutein Ester dosage, remember: 20mg Lutein Ester ≈ 10mg Free Lutein (due to the weight of the fatty acids). We clearly state the Ester content to avoid formulation errors.
Reference Chromatogram of Lactoferrin Reference Substance
The HPLC analysis shows the characteristic peaks of Lutein Diesters. Unlike free Lutein (one peak), the Ester form shows a cluster of peaks corresponding to different fatty acid chains (mainly palmitate and myristate), confirming its natural, un-saponified state.
Stability and Safety
Stability Studies
• Thermal Stability: Lutein Ester degrades much slower than free Lutein at elevated temperatures (e.g., during pasteurization).
• Light Sensitivity: Still sensitive to UV light; encapsulation provides protection.
• Shelf Life: 24 months in original packaging.
Safety & Handling (MSDS Summary)
• Classification: Non-hazardous food ingredient. GRAS.
• Handling: Stains skin and clothing bright orange! Wear protective gear.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place (< 20°C). Protect from light and oxygen.
Customer Comments
Quality Manager, Supplement Manufacturer (USA)
2026.04.03
★★★★☆
Production Lead, Contract Manufacturer (Canada)
2026.04.03
★★★★☆
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FAQ
What is the conversion rate between Lutein Ester and Lutein?
Roughly 2 : 1. Because the fatty acids add weight, you need about 20mg of Lutein Ester to yield 10mg of functional Free Lutein in the body.
Is Lutein Ester better than Free Lutein?
• Pros: Better stability in shelf-life; mimics the natural form in plants; some studies suggest better bioavailability with fat-containing meals. • Cons: You need a higher dosage weight (mg) to get the same active Lutein. • We supply both forms to suit your specific formulation strategy.
Is it water soluble?
The pure crystal and oil forms are not. However, our CWS (Cold Water Soluble) Beadlets are specifically designed to disperse in water for beverages and powder mixes.
References
1.Bowen, P. E., et al. (2002). Esterification does not impair lutein bioavailability in humans. Journal of Nutrition.
2.Bone, R. A., et al. (2003). Lutein and zeaxanthin dietary supplements raise macular pigment density and serum concentrations of these carotenoids in humans. Journal of Nutrition.
3.Norkus, E. P., et al. (2010). Dietary intake of lutein ester versus free lutein and their effect on macular pigment optical density. Journal of Ophthalmology.
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