1. Name and Synonyms

The product is officially named Astaxanthin and is widely recognized as a natural carotenoid in the feed and animal nutrition industries. This standardized name ensures accurate identification across various applications.

2. Chemical Identification

Astaxanthin is identified by the CAS number 472-61-7, which serves as a unique identifier in feed additive industries. This CAS number facilitates precise tracking in research, production, and quality control processes.

3. Appearance and Physical Properties

Astaxanthin typically appears as a dark red powder or crystalline form, aiding in product identification and quality control during manufacturing and distribution.

4. Purity and Solubility

Astaxanthin has a minimum purity level of ≥2.5% total astaxanthin content (depending on formulation). It is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents and oils, allowing for efficient incorporation into feed formulations.

5. Molecular Structure

The molecular formula of Astaxanthin is C₄₀H₅₂O₄, with a molecular weight of approximately 596.84 g/mol. Its structure enables high antioxidant activity, promoting pigmentation, immunity, and oxidative stress resistance in animals.

1. Nutritional Role

Astaxanthin is an essential carotenoid that provides powerful antioxidant protection, helping animals resist oxidative stress and supporting overall health. It plays a vital role in enhancing pigmentation, immune system health, and growth performance, especially in aquaculture species and poultry.

2. Benefits in Animal Nutrition

2.1 Pigmentation Enhancement

Astaxanthin is widely recognized for its ability to enhance pigmentation in aquatic species such as salmon, trout, and shrimp, as well as poultry. It ensures vibrant, natural coloration, improving the marketability of products.

2.2 Immune System Support

Astaxanthin’s potent antioxidant properties enhance immune response by reducing oxidative damage and supporting the production of immune-related proteins. This improves disease resistance and recovery from illness.

2.3 Growth Performance

Astaxanthin supplementation promotes better nutrient absorption and growth rates in aquaculture species and livestock, contributing to improved feed efficiency and overall productivity.

2.4 Stress Resistance

By combating oxidative stress, Astaxanthin helps animals maintain optimal health under challenging conditions such as environmental changes, transportation, or high stocking densities.

3. Comparison of Effectiveness

Astaxanthin is considered one of the most potent natural antioxidants in animal nutrition. Its bioavailability and superior antioxidant capacity make it more effective than other carotenoids such as beta-carotene and lutein.

4. Application Fields

Aquaculture Nutrition:

Astaxanthin is essential in feed formulations for salmon, trout, shrimp, and other aquaculture species, enhancing pigmentation, immune function, and stress resistance.

Poultry Nutrition:

Astaxanthin improves egg yolk and skin coloration in poultry while supporting growth and immune health.

Livestock Nutrition:

Astaxanthin promotes antioxidant protection and overall health in livestock, improving productivity and animal welfare.

Feed Premixes and Additives:

Astaxanthin is commonly included in feed premixes for aquaculture and poultry, enabling balanced diets that enhance performance and pigmentation.

1. Shelf Life

Astaxanthin has a shelf life of 24 months when stored under recommended conditions, ensuring stable performance throughout its intended use.

2. Testing Indicators and Standards

2.1 Appearance

Astaxanthin should appear as a dark red powder or crystalline form, with consistent coloration and particle size.

2.2 Identification

The identity of Astaxanthin is confirmed through advanced analytical methods such as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and UV spectrometry.

2.3 Purity Analysis

Astaxanthin content is strictly controlled, with total astaxanthin levels ≥2.5% or higher, meeting stringent quality standards for feed applications.

2.4 Heavy Metal Content

Heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and mercury are carefully monitored, with levels maintained below industry standards to ensure safety.

2.5 Microbial Testing

Each batch undergoes rigorous microbial testing to confirm the absence of contaminants such as E. coli and Salmonella, ensuring product safety.

1. Packaging

Astaxanthin is securely packaged in high-quality aluminum foil bags, vacuum-sealed containers, or fiber drums to protect it from light, oxygen, and moisture. Standard sizes include 1 kg, 5 kg, or 25 kg per container.

2. Transportation Modes

2.1 Express Shipping

Smaller or urgent orders are shipped through trusted international carriers such as DHL, FedEx, or TNT, ensuring fast and safe delivery.

2.2 Air and Sea Freight

For bulk orders, we provide cost-effective air or sea freight options tailored to customer requirements. Packaging is designed to maintain product stability during long-distance transportation.

3. Delivery Time

Orders are typically processed and dispatched within 2–3 business days upon confirmation of payment, ensuring timely delivery.

Q1: How can I place an order for Astaxanthin?

A: To place an order, contact us via email, phone, or our website. Our team will assist you in selecting the best packaging and shipping options.

Q2: What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for Astaxanthin?

A: The standard MOQ for Astaxanthin is 1 kg. Bulk orders are also available upon request.

Q3: What certifications does your company hold for Astaxanthin?

A: Our production facility is GMP and ISO 9001 certified. Astaxanthin complies with all feed additive regulations for safety and efficacy.

Q4: How should Astaxanthin be stored?

A: Store Astaxanthin in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Proper storage ensures stability throughout its shelf life.

Q5: What species benefit most from Astaxanthin supplementation?

A: Astaxanthin is particularly beneficial for aquaculture species (salmon, shrimp, trout), poultry, and livestock.

Q6: How does Astaxanthin improve pigmentation?

A: Astaxanthin enhances pigmentation by depositing in tissues such as fish scales, shrimp shells, and poultry skin, resulting in vibrant coloration.

Q7: What is the typical dosage of Astaxanthin in feed?

A: Dosage varies by species and application but typically ranges between 50–100 ppm in feed formulations.

Q8: Is a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) provided with each batch?

A: Yes, we provide a CoA with every batch to ensure quality and transparency.

Q9: Can Astaxanthin be used in organic feed formulations?

A: Yes, natural Astaxanthin is suitable for organic feed formulations, aligning with sustainable farming practices.

Q10: What are the packaging options for Astaxanthin?

A: We offer packaging in sizes of 1 kg, 5 kg, or 25 kg, with vacuum-sealed options to maintain freshness.