Description

Echinenone is a naturally occurring ketocarotenoid pigment, a key intermediate in the biosynthesis of astaxanthin. Its unique chemical structure makes it a valuable precursor and reference standard in the research and production of high-value carotenoids. This compound is essential for B2B clients in the nutraceutical, cosmetic, and animal feed industries seeking to develop or quality-control products with potent antioxidant properties.

Application

• Reference Standard in Analytical Chemistry: Used for the identification and quantification of carotenoids in complex matrices via HPLC and LC-MS.
• Nutraceutical & Dietary Supplement Precursor: Serves as a critical biosynthetic intermediate in the commercial production of astaxanthin and other premium carotenoids.
• Cosmetic & Skincare Formulations: Incorporated as an active ingredient or a stabilizing agent in products targeting oxidative stress and skin health due to its antioxidant potential.
• Aquaculture & Animal Feed Additive: Used in the development of feed formulations to enhance the coloration and health of farmed fish, shrimp, and poultry.
• Biochemical & Life Science Research: Employed in studies of carotenoid metabolism, photosynthesis, and antioxidant mechanisms.
• Food & Beverage Colorant Development: Acts as a model compound for developing stable, natural colorants in the food industry.

Basic Information

Product Name	Echinenone
CAS No.	432-68-8
Molecular Formula	C₄₀H₅₄O
Molecular Weight	550.86 g/mol
Synonyms	β,β-Caroten-4-one; 4-Keto-β-carotene; 4'-Apo-β-caroten-4-al; CI 75130; Canthaxanthin precursor; all-trans-Echinenone; (all-E)-β,β-Caroten-4-one
EINECS	207-096-6

Quality Control

Our Echinenone is produced and tested under a rigorous quality management system. Each batch is analyzed to ensure high purity and consistency, with specifications tailored to meet research and industrial-grade requirements. A comprehensive Certificate of Analysis (COA) detailing identity, purity, and impurity profiles is provided with every shipment to guarantee traceability and compliance.

Storage

Preserve in a tightly closed container, protected from light. Store under an inert atmosphere (e.g., nitrogen or argon) at 2-8°C or as specified on the label or COA. This product is easily oxidized and light-sensitive; prolonged exposure to air, heat, or light should be avoided to maintain stability and potency.

Specification

Item	Specification
Appearance	Red to violet crystalline powder or solid
Identification (HPLC/UV-Vis)	Conforms to reference standard
Assay (HPLC)	≥ 95.0%
All-trans Isomer Content	≥ 90.0%
Loss on Drying	≤ 1.0%
Residue on Ignition	≤ 0.5%
Heavy Metals (as Pb)	≤ 20 ppm

Note: Specifications can be tailored. Please contact us for the detailed technical data sheet of a specific grade.