Process for production of carotenoids, xanthophylls and apo-carotenoids utilizing eukaryotic microorganisms

Abstract

Disclosed is a method for producing an effective amount of one or more carotenoid, xanthophyll, or apo-carotenoid pigments from a microorganism from the Order Thraustochytriales. Suitable microorganisms put forth are of the genus Thraustochytrium and Schizochytrium. Preferred culture conditions and mediums are discussed. Examples are given of production of specific pigments, such as β-carotene, lutein, adonirubin, canthaxanthin, and astaxanthin, as are examples of methods of isolation of the pigment from the microorganism. Also disclosed is a food product that contains a microorganism from the Order Thraustochytriales, the microorganism having produced internally an effective amount of one or more carotenoid, xanthophyll, or apo-carotenoid pigments. The food product is used in a method for delivering one or more of the pigments to an animal or human for either pharmaceutical, nutritional or coloration purposes, by feeding the food product to the animal or human.

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