Beta-carotene is the molecule that gives carrots their orange colour. It is part of a family of chemicals called the carotenoids, which are found in many fruit and vegetables, as well as some animal products such as egg yolks. Biologically, beta carotene is most important as the precursor of vitamin A. It also has anti-oxidant properties and may help in preventing cancer and other diseases.

Beta-Carotene is also known as a provitamin because it can be converted in our body into vitamin A after oxidative cleavage by beta carotene 15, 150-dioxygenase. In plants, beta carotene, acts as an anti-oxidant and neutralizes singlet oxygen radicals formed during photosynthesis

1. Beta-Carotene is an antioxidant and therefore may offer some protection against certain cancers and other diseases.
2. Beta-Carotene is a naturally occurring substance present in green and yellow fruits and vegetables.
3. Beta-Carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body and beta carotene is used as a vitamin supplement to prevent or treat vitamin A deficiency.
4. Beta-Carotene can help prevent or treat reactions to the sun in some specific groups of patients.