beta-carotene

noun

be·​ta-car·​o·​tene ˈbā-tə-ˈker-ə-ˌtēn 

-ˈka-rə-

: an isomer of carotene found in dark green and dark yellow vegetables and fruits

Examples of beta-carotene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This hydrating snack contains 28 mcg of vitamin A and other eye-healthy compounds, including lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 2 Sep. 2024

There are hundreds of types of carotenoids, but three—beta-carotene, lutein, and lycopene—are most important to human health. —Lauren Manaker Ms, Rdn, Health, 17 Aug. 2024

Steaming spinach can also preserve its folate content and results in significantly higher levels of beta-carotene than raw spinach. —Jamie Johnson, Verywell Health, 15 Aug. 2024

Stone fruits, like peaches, apricots and cherries, also provide extra beta-carotene and vitamin C that help protect your skin against sun damage. —Brenna Gauchat, The Arizona Republic, 30 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

beta-carotene

noun

be·​ta-car·​o·​tene

-ˈkar-ə-ˌtēn

: a form of carotene found in dark green and dark yellow vegetables and fruits

Medical Definition

beta-carotene

noun

be·​ta-car·​o·​tene

variants or β-carotene

-ˈkar-ə-ˌtēn 

: a reddish-orange pigment that is an an isomer of carotene found chiefly in orange and dark green and yellow vegetables and fruits (such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach) and that is converted to vitamin A in the body

Note: Beta-carotene is the most active and widespread provitamin A and is derived commercially from natural sources or is prepared synthetically.