The main suppliers of Vitamin A include DSM, BASF, NHU, ADISSEO, ZMC, KINGDOMWAY.
The quality standards for Vitamin A typically include purity, potency, and stability. It must meet specifications such as being free from contaminants, having a defined potency (measured in International Units, IU), and maintaining stability under storage conditions. Compliance with pharmacopeial standards like USP, EP, or BP is essential.
Vitamin A can interact with other ingredients by enhancing or inhibiting their absorption. For example, it works synergistically with Vitamin D to support bone health but may reduce the effectiveness of certain anticoagulants. It’s fat-soluble, so it’s best absorbed when taken with dietary fats.
The market for Vitamin A is growing due to increasing demand in dietary supplements, fortified foods, and cosmetics. Rising health awareness, especially concerning vision and skin health, is driving this trend. Additionally, the push for natural and sustainable sources of Vitamin A is influencing product development and pricing.
Vitamin A is widely used in dietary supplements, fortified foods, and pharmaceuticals for supporting vision, immune function, and skin health. It's also a key ingredient in cosmetics and skincare products for anti-aging and acne treatment. Additionally, Vitamin A is utilized in animal feed to ensure proper growth and health.
Vitamin A should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from light and heat to prevent degradation. It is best kept in tightly sealed containers to protect it from moisture and air, which can reduce its potency. Refrigeration may be required for some liquid forms to ensure stability.
Vitamin A product specifications typically include purity (often above 97%), potency (measured in International Units, IU), and form (e.g., retinol, retinyl acetate, or retinyl palmitate). Other specifications may include moisture content, solvent residues, and particle size for powders, as well as stability under specified storage conditions. Compliance with pharmacopeial standards is essential.
The main sources of Vitamin A are animal-based foods, such as liver, fish, and dairy products, which provide preformed Vitamin A (retinol). Plant-based sources include fruits and vegetables rich in beta-carotene, a provitamin A that the body converts into active Vitamin A, such as carrots and sweet potatoes.
Vitamin A supports healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. It promotes cell growth and differentiation, helps prevent night blindness, and contributes to proper functioning of the heart, lungs, and kidneys. Additionally, it has antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage.
The production of Vitamin A can impact the environment through resource extraction, chemical processing, and waste generation. Activities like the farming of livestock for animal-based Vitamin A and synthetic production may contribute to habitat destruction, pollution, and carbon emissions. Sustainable practices and waste management are crucial to mitigate these effects.