betalaineet

Betalainet are a class of red and yellow water-soluble pigments found in many plants of the order Caryophyllales, as well as in some fungi and bacteria. They are structurally different from anthocyanins, the other major group of plant pigments, and are synthesized independently. The betalains are further divided into two main groups: betacyanins, which are red-violet, and betaxanthins, which are yellow to orange.

These pigments play a role in attracting pollinators and seed dispersers through their vibrant colors. In addition to their visual appeal, betalains have garnered interest for their potential health benefits. Research suggests they possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and possibly anti-cancer properties, although more studies are needed to confirm these effects in humans.

Betalains are commonly found in foods such as beets, prickly pear cactus fruits, and dragon fruit. Their presence contributes significantly to the coloration of these edible parts. The stability of betalains can be influenced by factors like pH, temperature, and light exposure, which can affect their color intensity and suitability for use as natural food colorants. Extraction and purification methods are employed to isolate betalains for various applications.