betacryptoxanthin

Betacryptoxanthin is a carotenoid belonging to the xanthophyll family. It is a provitamin A carotenoid, meaning it can be converted in the human body to retinol (vitamin A). In the gut, enzymes cleave betacryptoxanthin to produce retinol, contributing to vitamin A activity. Betacryptoxanthin is found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, with notable amounts in citrus fruits such as mandarins and oranges, as well as peaches, papaya, persimmon, and red peppers. Like other carotenoids, it is fat-soluble and its intestinal absorption is affected by dietary fat and the food matrix.

In nutritional terms, betacryptoxanthin provides vitamin A activity but is less efficiently converted to retinol than beta-carotene. Dietary conversion factors used in guidelines typically assign about 1 microgram of retinol activity equivalent from about 24 micrograms of betacryptoxanthin (relative to beta-carotene’s 12:1). There is wide interindividual variation in conversion efficiency.

Health and safety: Observational studies have investigated associations between betacryptoxanthin intake and risks of certain diseases, but the evidence is not definitive, and no specific health claim or recommended daily amount exists for betacryptoxanthin alone. Intake from foods within a balanced diet is generally considered safe; high-dose provitamin A supplements can pose risks and should not be used as a substitute for a varied diet. Betacryptoxanthin is one of several dietary carotenoids contributing to overall vitamin A status.