Astaxanthin has two chiral centers, at the 3- and 3′-positions. Therefore, there are three stereoisomers; (3R,3′R), (3R,3′S) (meso), and (3S,3′S). Synthetic astaxanthin contains a mixture of the three, in approximately 1:2:1 proportions. Naturally occurring astaxanthin varies considerably from one organism to another. The astaxanthin in fish is of whatever stereoisomer the fish ingested. The astaxanthin produced by haematococcus pluvialis, which is commonly used in the feed of animals that are in turn consumed by humans, is the (3S,3′S) stereoisomer.

Astaxanthin is the most abundant carotenoid pigment found in aquatic animals and the marine world.

Astaxanthin cannot be synthesized by animals and must be provided in the diet, the same as for other carotenoids such as Beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and lycopene.

Specifications

5%-10% Oil suspension

0.5%-3.5% Powder