Tomato Paste Extract Lycopene is a concentrated form of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found predominantly in tomatoes. This extract is obtained from tomato paste through various extraction processes and is known for its health benefits, particularly due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Lycopene is a naturally occurring carotenoid, a type of pigment that gives tomatoes their red color. Unlike some other carotenoids, lycopene is not converted into vitamin A in the body. Instead, it acts as a potent antioxidant, scavenging free radicals and protecting cells from damage.
Characteristics of Lycopene
1. Color: Lycopene is responsible for the red and pink hues in tomatoes and other red fruits and vegetables.
2. Solubility: It is a fat-soluble compound, meaning it dissolves in fats and oils rather than water.
3. Absorption: The absorption of lycopene in the human body is enhanced when it is consumed with fats. Cooking tomatoes, as in the preparation of tomato paste, incr…