Carotenoids: Overview of the main methods and conditions of their preparation

Carotenoids represent a group of isoprenoid pigments whose high biological activity is not limited to their provitamin properties. Due to their ability to participate in redox reactions, carotenes are increasingly considered as promising compounds in the prevention and correction of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders, as well as in oncology and the treatment of various other diseases. Carotenoids are widely used in the manufacture of food additives and dyes, feed for aquaculture, farm animals and poultry, as well as in so-called nutraceuticals and cosmetics. When formulating optimal feeding rations, vitamin A nutrition is often considered separately due to its vital role in normal growth, development, maintenance and reproduction. The main precursor of vitamin A is β-carotene, which naturally enters the body exclusively via vegetable-based provender. However, since the carotene contained in plant raw materials is an unstable compound, the use of feed additives containing β-carotene becomes relevant. In industry, carotenoids can be produced either by chemical or biological synthesis. However, the majority of carotenoids – 80–90% – are obtained by chemical synthesis. At the same time, public demand for sustainable production dictates the need to find alternative approaches for obtaining this valuable commodity. The article provides an overview of the main biotechnological methods for the production of carotenes using various microorganisms, including microalgae, bacteria and fungi, as well as analysing the effect of culture conditions on the yield of target pigments.