Carotene is an important pigment for photosynthesis in plants. It absorbs the light it absorbs into chlorophyll and contributes to photosynthesis. Carotene is stored in the liver and can be converted to vitamin A when necessary. Carotene also gives color to some plants. Carrot is the leading of these plants. The orange color of the carrot is due to its carotene compound.

In the structure of plants, carotene is found in two different ways: beta carotene and alpha carotene. In recent years, the use of carotene has increased. Especially carotene-containing products are offered to people who want to lose weight. Carotene induces a feeling of satiety in humans. It is also effective for controlling the rate of metabolism. However, carotene, which is synthetically produced, is generally used to lose weight. The most important point here is synthetic carotenes, which show negative results in terms of health. Prostate and lung cancer rates are increased with the use of synthetic carotene. Therefore, carotenes should be taken in the body by natural means.

Beta carotene, which is a very important antioxidant, is found especially in carrot and other orange vegetables and fruits. Potatoes, zucchini, pumpkin, stuffed peppers and apricots also include beta carotene. Beta carotene is a serious source of vitamin A. Vitamin A is very important in terms of the development of the body, the immune system and the visual function. Beta-carotene has been shown to have protective effects against diseases.

Alpha carotene is preferred in healthy diet applications. Alpha carotene is effective in the production of vitamin A, but this effect is about half that of beta carotene. In contrast, antioxidant power is greater than beta carotene. Alpha carotene is also effective in preventing cancer formation.

Carotene determination studies are carried out among the chemical laboratories in the authorized laboratories. A few of the standards considered in these studies are:

• TS ISO 6558-2 Fruits, vegetables and products - Determination of carotene content - Part 2: Routine
• TS EN 12136 Fruit and vegetable juices - Determination of each carotenoid species and total carotenoid content
• TS 12485 Feed additives - Colorants - Beta carotene