Natural Astaxanthin from Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae cultivation, 1% / 2% / 5% HPLC specifications. Sourced through qualified production partners for dietary supplement manufacturers.
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Available Specifications
Per AST-001 (Verified 2026-09-20):
| Specification Level | Active Marker |
| Astaxanthin 1% (Standard, Beadlet) | HPLC |
| Astaxanthin 2% (Premium, Beadlet) | HPLC |
| Astaxanthin 5% (High-Purity, Powder/Oil) | HPLC |
Specifications subject to product requirements and destination-market regulations.
Product Overview
| Source | Haematococcus pluvialis (microalgae) |
| Production method | Closed-photobioreactor cultivation, stress-induced astaxanthin accumulation |
| Active marker | Astaxanthin (carotenoid, 3S,3'S-isomer predominantly) |
| Form | Dark red powder (beadlets) or dark red oil suspension |
| CAS No. | 472-61-7 (Astaxanthin) |
| Molecular formula | C40H52O4 |
Technical Specifications
| Test Item | Specification | Method |
| Appearance | Dark red powder or oil | Visual |
| Astaxanthin Assay | ≥ 1.0%, ≥ 2.0%, or ≥ 5.0% | HPLC |
| Loss on Drying | ≤ 5.0% | USP <731> |
| Heavy Metals (Pb/As/Cd/Hg) | ≤ 3/1/1/0.1 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Total Plate Count | ≤ 1,000 CFU/g | USP <2021> |
| Yeast & Mold | ≤ 100 CFU/g | USP <2021> |
| E. coli / Salmonella | Negative | USP <2022> |
All specifications subject to product specification and destination-market requirements.
Quality & Documentation
- Certificate of Analysis (COA) per batch with HPLC verification of Astaxanthin
- Heavy metals testing panel (Pb, As, Cd, Hg) via ICP-MS
- Microbiology panel per USP
- Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) documentation
- Non-GMO statement
- Allergen statement
- Pesticide residue testing (multi-residue screen)
- Third-party SGS testing available upon request
Applications
- Dietary Supplements: Considered for use in antioxidant and eye health formulations.
- Functional Food & Beverage: Considered for fortification in functional beverages.
- Cosmeceuticals: Considered for use in topical skincare formulations (anti-aging, UV protection).
- Aquaculture: Considered for use in salmonid and crustacean feed as natural pigment.
Why Source from Nourish Ingredients?
- Specification Matching: Three Astaxanthin levels (1%, 2%, 5%) plus beadlet/oil/suspension forms for formulation flexibility.
- Supplier Verification: Production partners maintain FSSC 22000, BRCGS, EU Organic, USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project certifications.
- Sample Comparison: 25-100g samples available for specification evaluation.
- Third-Party Testing: SGS verification available for Astaxanthin, heavy metals, and microbiology.
- Documentation Support: Comprehensive documentation package including COA, MSDS, allergen, and Non-GMO statements.
Supply & Ordering
- Sample Availability: 25-100g samples available; standard samples ship within 5-7 business days.
- Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): 1 kg for standard specifications; smaller quantities for evaluation.
- Lead Time: 7-15 business days from order confirmation.
- Packaging: 1 kg / 5 kg aluminum foil bag with double food-grade PE liner; custom packaging available.
- Shipping: Worldwide shipping via air, sea, or courier; documentation prepared for customs clearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What's the difference between Astaxanthin 1%, 2%, and 5%?
The 1%/2%/5% difference reflects total Astaxanthin content measured via HPLC. 5% is positioned for premium and pharmaceutical applications. 1-2% beadlets are common for supplement formulations.
Q2: What's the difference between natural and synthetic Astaxanthin?
Natural Astaxanthin is produced via Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae cultivation (predominantly 3S,3'S-isomer). Synthetic Astaxanthin is chemically produced (3R,3'R / 3R,3'S isomers). Natural is the form used in dietary supplements.
Q3: Can Astaxanthin be combined with other antioxidants?
Astaxanthin is commonly combined with Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and other carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin) for synergistic effects. We recommend consulting with your formulation team.
Q4: What's the regulatory status in the EU?
Natural Astaxanthin from Haematococcus pluvialis is permitted as a food supplement ingredient in the EU under Novel Food Regulation 2015/2283. Specific regulatory status depends on intended application and labeling.
Q5: How is Astaxanthin content measured?
Astaxanthin content is quantified via HPLC per USP method with UV-Vis detection at 474 nm.
Q6: What's the typical MOQ?
Standard MOQ is 1 kg. Smaller quantities (100-500g) are available for evaluation.
Q7: Do you offer custom specifications?
Yes. Custom specifications (e.g., specific Astaxanthin content, beadlet/oil form, packaging) can be discussed with our coordination team.
Q8: What documentation is available?
Standard documentation includes COA, MSDS, allergen statement, Non-GMO statement. Additional documentation available upon request from production partners.
Related Resources
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Compliance Note
Data marked as "typical" reflects industry standards; specific values vary by supplier and batch. Documentation including COA, MSDS, allergen, and Non-GMO documentation is available upon request from production partners.
About Nourish Ingredients: We are a China-based sourcing partner for botanical extracts and nutraceutical ingredients. We coordinate supply for international brands — from specification matching to delivery. Production partners maintain FSSC 22000, BRCGS, EU Organic, USDA Organic, FAMI-QS certifications. Documentation available upon request.
For ingredient sourcing inquiries: ashely@nourishingr.com
Reviewed by: Nourish Ingredients Editorial Team Version: 2.3 Last updated: 2026-09-20