Beta-Carotene Supplier South Africa

What Is Beta-Carotene?

Beta-carotene is the most abundant and biologically active dietary carotenoid, serving as a provitamin A precursor that animals convert to retinol in the intestinal mucosa. It is found naturally in green forages, maize, and carrots. Synthetic beta-carotene on beadlet carriers provides a standardised, stable supply for feed formulation without the variability of natural sources.

Reproductive and Immune Benefits

Beta-carotene has functions beyond vitamin A conversion. In dairy cattle supplemented above the minimum vitamin A requirement, it improves conception rates, reduces embryonic loss, and shortens the interval to first service. This is attributed to its direct role in luteal cell function and its protection of the maturing ovarian follicle from oxidative damage. In poultry, egg yolk beta-carotene improves hatchability and chick vigour.

Pigmentation and Supply

Beta-carotene produces intense orange-yellow colouration in egg yolks, poultry skin, and the body fat of broilers — a commercially important quality trait. Terracore Chemicals supplies 10% and 20% beta-carotene beadlets in feed-grade form for inclusion in layer premixes, dairy cow supplements, and aquafeed formulations with yellow pigmentation targets.