What does carotinoid mean?
Carotenoids are a group of pigments found in plants and algae that are responsible for their characteristic colors. They are also important antioxidants in the human diet, and have been linked to a number of health benefits. Carotenoids are found in a wide range of fruits and vegetables, including sweet potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes. They are also found in some animal products, such as egg yolks and butter. In addition to their role in human health, carotenoids are also used as food coloring and in the production of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Overall, carotenoids are an important class of compounds that play a number of roles in human health and industry.
noun
Carotenoids are a class of yellow, orange, and red pigments found in plants and algae. They are responsible for the characteristic colors of many fruits and vegetables, and are also important antioxidants in the human diet.
- 1. A class of yellow, orange, and red pigments found in plants and algae.
- 2. A type of antioxidant found in the human diet.
"The high levels of carotenoids in sweet potatoes make them a popular choice for people looking to boost their antioxidant intake."
"The high levels of carotenoids in sweet potatoes make them a popular choice for people looking to boost their antioxidant intake."
"Carotenoids are also found in some animal products, such as egg yolks and butter."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of carotinoid
The term 'carotenoid' comes from the Greek words 'karoten', meaning 'carrot', and 'eidos', meaning 'form'. Carotenoids were first isolated from carrots in the late 19th century, and were later found to be present in a wide range of other plants and algae.
Usage notes
Carotenoids are often used as food coloring, and are also found in a number of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. They are also an important part of the human diet, and have been linked to a number of health benefits.