Description

(4E)-3,5,5-trimethyl-4-[(2E,4E,6E,8E,10E,12E,14E,16E,18E)-3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-18-(2,6,6-trimethyl-4-oxo-1-cyclohex-2-enylidene)octadeca-2,4,6,8,10,12,14,16-octaenylidene]cyclohex-2-en-1-one is a high-purity, complex carotenoid derivative, also known as a retro-carotenoid, valued for its potent colorant and antioxidant properties. This compound is critical for applications requiring stable, vivid coloration and oxidative protection in sensitive formulations. It serves as a key ingredient for manufacturers in the cosmetics, nutraceutical, and specialty chemical industries seeking advanced functional additives.

Application

• Cosmetic and Personal Care Formulations: Used as a natural colorant and antioxidant in high-end skincare products, lipsticks, and foundations.
• Nutraceutical and Dietary Supplements: Incorporated for its potential pro-vitamin A activity and antioxidant benefits in capsule and tablet formulations.
• Functional Food and Beverage Coloring: Provides stable, natural coloration to food products where synthetic dyes are undesirable.
• Pharmaceutical Intermediates: Serves as a key synthetic intermediate or active ingredient in specialized pharmaceutical research and development.
• Animal Feed Additives: Used to enhance the coloration of poultry, fish, and ornamental animals, improving product marketability.
• Research and Development: Essential as a reference standard and building block in organic synthesis and biochemical research.

Basic Information

Item	Details
Product Name	(4E)-3,5,5-trimethyl-4-[(2E,4E,6E,8E,10E,12E,14E,16E,18E)-3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-18-(2,6,6-trimethyl-4-oxo-1-cyclohex-2-enylidene)octadeca-2,4,6,8,10,12,14,16-octaenylidene]cyclohex-2-en-1-one
CAS No.	2231-40-5
Molecular Formula	C40H50O2
Molecular Weight	562.83 g/mol
Synonyms	Retro-β-apo-8'-carotenal; 8'-Apo-β-caroten-8'-al, retro-; β-Apo-8'-carotenal (retro-); 8'-Apo-β,ψ-caroten-8'-al, (all-E)-; C.I. 40820; Food Orange 6; E 160e (when approved for food use); (all-E)-8'-Apo-β-caroten-8'-al
EINECS	218-779-5

Quality Control

Our production of (4E)-3,5,5-trimethyl-4-[(2E,4E,6E,8E,10E,12E,14E,16E,18E)-3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-18-(2,6,6-trimethyl-4-oxo-1-cyclohex-2-enylidene)octadeca-2,4,6,8,10,12,14,16-octaenylidene]cyclohex-2-en-1-one adheres to stringent quality protocols. Each batch is analyzed using advanced techniques like HPLC and GC-MS to ensure identity, purity, and consistency. We provide comprehensive Certificates of Analysis (COA) with each shipment, detailing all critical parameters. Our quality system is designed to meet the requirements of cGMP, ISO 9001, and relevant food/pharmaceutical guidelines where applicable.

Storage

Preserve in a tightly closed container, protected from light. Store in a cool, dry place at a controlled room temperature (15-25°C). This product is easily oxidized (store under inert atmosphere) and light-sensitive (store away from light). For long-term storage, consider packaging under an inert gas such as nitrogen or argon in amber glass containers. Keep away from heat and incompatible materials.

Specification

Item	Specification
Appearance	Dark red to violet crystalline powder or flakes
Identification (IR)	Conforms to structure
Identification (HPLC)	Retention time matches reference standard
Assay (HPLC)	≥ 96.0% (Total carotenoids)
Loss on Drying	≤ 1.0 %
Residue on Ignition	≤ 0.1 %
Heavy Metals (as Pb)	≤ 10 ppm
Solvent Residues (GC)	Meets ICH guidelines

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