Supplements · Carotenoids
Astaxanthin
アスタキサンチン (Asuta kisanchin)
Also known as: 3,3'-dihydroxy-β,β-carotene-4,4'-dione
At a glance
| Category | Supplements |
|---|---|
| INCI name | Astaxanthin |
| Japanese labeling name | アスタキサンチン |
| Common Japanese notations | アスタキサンチン |
| CAS number | 472-61-7 |
| Origin | Natural (Haematococcus microalgae, salmon, krill) or synthetic |
| Typical functions | Antioxidant, FFC active for various claims |
| Regulatory status in Japan | Astaxanthin appears in multiple FFC notifications. Cosmetic use under JSCI dictionary. |
Astaxanthin is a deep-red carotenoid responsible for the pink color of salmon, shrimp, and krill. The most-cited commercial source is the freshwater microalga Haematococcus pluvialis. In Japan, astaxanthin is one of the most-notified Foods with Function Claims ingredients across multiple claim categories.
Classification
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Used in (typical product categories)
Finished-product categories that commonly include this ingredient in Japanese-market formulations.
- FFC supplements (eye fatigue, skin moisture)
- Antioxidant cosmetic formulations
- Functional beverages
What it is
Astaxanthin is a xanthophyll carotenoid with hydroxyl and keto groups on each ionone ring, producing a strongly antioxidant character. Commercial preparations are produced from Haematococcus microalga cultures, krill / salmon byproducts, or synthetic routes.
Typical uses in Japanese products
In supplements, astaxanthin appears in soft gels with claims around eye fatigue support, skin moisture, and athletic recovery — depending on the specific Consumer Affairs Agency notification.
In cosmetics, astaxanthin is used in antioxidant-positioning formulations.
Regulatory classification in Japan
Multiple FFC notifications involving astaxanthin have been submitted to the Consumer Affairs Agency.
Regulatory classification in other markets
| EU | Astaxanthin is approved as a Novel Food in specific preparations and concentrations. Cosmetic use is permitted under CosIng listings. |
|---|---|
| USA | Sold as a dietary supplement and used in cosmetics. |
| China | Verify against current regulatory listings. |
| Korea | Permitted. |
Example products
Example finished products will be added after verification.
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Related ingredients
References
- Japan Consumer Affairs Agency — Foods with Function Claims notification database
- EU Novel Food regulation — astaxanthin specifications
Last updated: 2026-04-22. Ingredient entries are reviewed at least annually against current regulatory listings.