Red Beetroot Extract

Red Beetroot Extract

Red beetroot extract powder is a concentrated, dehydrated botanical derivative obtained from the taproot portion of the beet plant, scientifically classified as Beta vulgaris. The extraction process typically involves aqueous extraction of the macerated root, followed by filtration, concentration, and spray-drying to yield a fine, hygroscopic powder. It is primarily valued for its intense pigmentation and specific bioactive profile.

Applications of Beetroot Extract

Beetroot extract powder serves specific functions across multiple industries:

  • Food and Beverage: Utilized as a natural food colorant (E162) to impart pink, red, or magenta hues in products such as dairy, confectionery, and meat substitutes.
  • Nutraceuticals and Dietary Supplements: Formulated in pre-workout powders and cardiovascular support supplements due to its high inorganic nitrate content, which optimizes vasodilation and oxygen delivery.
  • Cosmetics and Personal Care: Employed as a natural, non-toxic pigment in lip balms, blushes, and topical formulations.

Chemical Constituents of Black Carrot Extract

  • Betalains: The dominant water-soluble pigments, subdivided into red-violet betacyanins (predominantly betanin and isobetanin) and yellow-orange betaxanthins (vulgaxanthin I and II).
  • Inorganic Nitrates (NO3-): High concentrations of dietary nitrates, which function as nitric oxide (NO) precursors in the human physiological system.
  • Phenolic Compounds and Flavonoids: Including rutin, epicatechin, and caffeic acid, contributing to its antioxidant capacity.
  • Carbohydrates and Fiber: Pectin and standard plant sugars, depending on the extraction and filtration methodology

Identification Numbers

  • CAS Number: 89957-89-1 (Beta vulgaris extract) / 7659-95-2 (Betanin)
  • EC Number: 289-610-8 (Beta vulgaris extract) / 231-628-5 (Betanin)
  • UNII: 53D0A3D27X (Beta vulgaris root)
  • E-Number (Food Additive ID): E162 (Beetroot Red)

Safety, Handling, and Storage Conditions

  • Safety Profile: Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). Non-toxic, non-flammable, and non-hazardous under standard operational conditions. Inhalation of fine dust may cause mild mechanical irritation to the respiratory tract. Standard PPE (dust mask, gloves) is recommended during bulk handling.
  • Storage: Highly sensitive to heat, light, and moisture (hygroscopic). Must be stored in tightly sealed, moisture-proof containers (e.g., aluminum foil bags or HDPE drums).
  • Safety Profile: Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). Non-toxic, non-flammable, and non-hazardous under standard operational conditions. Inhalation of fine dust may cause mild mechanical irritation to the respiratory tract. Standard PPE (dust mask, gloves) is recommended during bulk handling.
  • Environmental Conditions: Optimal storage temperature is < 25°C in a cool, dry, and dark environment. Exposure to direct sunlight or elevated temperatures accelerates the degradation of betalains, resulting in pigment browning and loss of bioactivity.

Synonyms and Nomenclature

  • Red beet powder
  • Red beet extract
  • Beta vulgaris root extract
  • Beetroot Red
  • Betanin extract