Skip to content
Plenthera

Astaxanthin: what is this natural pigment?

In short: astaxanthin is a red carotenoid (antioxidant) that is made naturally by the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis and gives salmon its colour. Supplements often use the natural algae form, a few milligrams per softgel. No health claims for astaxanthin are authorised in the EU.

Astaxanthin is a natural pigment that gives salmon, prawns and flamingos their pink to red colour. It belongs to the carotenoids, the same family that beta-carotene belongs to. In this article you can read, factually, what astaxanthin is, where it comes from, the difference between natural and synthetic astaxanthin and what to look for when choosing a supplement.

Astaxanthine: wat is deze natuurlijke kleurstof?

A carotenoid from algae

Astaxanthin is produced naturally by the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis. When this alga is exposed to stressful conditions, it turns deep red as astaxanthin builds up. Small aquatic animals eat the algae and fish eat those animals in turn; that is how the pigment eventually ends up in salmon and shellfish. For supplements, astaxanthin is usually obtained directly from this microalga.

No health claims are authorised in the EU for astaxanthin. The information below is therefore descriptive and factual, without health or medical claims.

Natural versus synthetic astaxanthin

There is both natural (from algae) and synthetic astaxanthin. Supplements often use the natural algae form, because it comes directly from Haematococcus pluvialis. Doses of a few milligrams per softgel are common, for example 6 mg.

  • Natural — from the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis.
  • Synthetic — produced chemically; less common in premium supplements.
  • Dose — often a few milligrams per softgel.

At Plenthera you will find astaxanthin under the name Astamax; see the details in our astaxanthin collection.

Frequently asked questions about astaxanthin

Choosing astaxanthin: what to look for

What should you look for when choosing?

With astaxanthin, the source and the dose determine the quality. A natural source from Haematococcus pluvialis and a transparent manufacturer are preferable.

  • Source — natural astaxanthin from microalgae.
  • Dose — the amount per softgel.
  • Softgel shell — check this if you want to remain vegan.
  • Quality control — a transparent origin.

Previous Post Next Post