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

Leafy greens contain antioxidants and other brain-protective compounds, like lutein, folate, and beta-carotene. —Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Health, 11 Dec. 2024

Cranberries are high in potassium, which helps with electrolyte balance and cell signaling, as well as other important nutrients such as antioxidants, beta-carotene, and vitamin C. —Rosemary Trout, Discover Magazine, 27 Nov. 2024

Water-soluble nutrients in the vegetables leach into the water, decreasing certain nutrients and phytochemicals like vitamin C and beta-carotene. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 26 Nov. 2024

However, frozen carrots may have less beta-carotene than fresh ones.18 The canning process uses heat, which can degrade some nutrients. —Adrienne Dellwo, Verywell Health, 22 Oct. 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.