🇺🇸 FDA
GRAS (marigold + algal source) · DSHEA dietary supplement
Zeaxanthin (Marigold/algal-derived xanthophyll)
Also known as: (3R,3′R)-β,β-carotene-3,3′-diol · meso-Zeaxanthin (RS-isomer)
Mechanism of action
- Foveal macular pigment accumulation (zeaxanthin-dominant in fovea)
- Blue light filtering (~450 nm peak)
- Singlet oxygen quenching
- Anti-inflammatory in retinal pigment epithelium
Molecular + tissue targets
- Foveal macula (central vision)
- Retinal pigment epithelium
- Crystalline lens
Dosage range
2 mg/day zeaxanthin (AREDS2 formula · PMID 35653117); meso-zeaxanthin 10 mg/day in MOST trial (Akuffo 2015 PMID 25976647)
Safety notes
Generally well tolerated; carotenodermia possible at high cumulative intake; co-supplemented with lutein in AREDS2
Cross-market regulatory status
🇪🇺 EFSA
Authorized as food additive E161h; no health claim
🇧🇷 ANVISA
RDC 243/2018 dietary supplement · IN 28/2018 alegação funcional not specifically authorized
Common use cases
- eye-protection (AMD progression delay · AREDS2)
- foveal visual acuity
- blue-light contrast sensitivity
Cross-reference
Health goals: eye protection longevity stack
Lifestyles: senior 60 plus high stress
Full dossier: /ingredients/zeaxanthin/
Machine-readable JSON: /api/nc/zeaxanthin.json