ஐ.எஸ்.எஸ்.என்: 2155-9600
Eriksen NT
Three pigments, β-carotene, astaxanthin and phycocyanin are presently well-established microalgal products, produced at large-scale in cultures of microalgae or cyanobacteria and used as natural colours in feed and foods and as nutritional additives. Applied research in these 3 pigments is, however, still developing rapidly; particularly in their effects on human health. This commentary provides a brief overview on the main functional effects of β- carotene, astaxanthin and phycocyanin and presents an analysis of the current trends in research activities in relation to their used in feed, foods and health.