The present work describes the isolation of α - and β -
carotene from crude
palm oil and their
antioxidant potential in an in vitro model. Pure product was isolated by the method adopted.
Antioxidant activities of the isolated α - and β -
carotene were analyzed in five different concentrations of 0.001, 0.005, 0.01, 0.05, and 0.1% (w/v). From the several assays conducted, an observation was made that the
antioxidant activity of the product shifted between
antioxidant and prooxidant effects depending on the concentration and the system analyzed. The
metal chelation, DPPH radical scavenging, and
superoxide scavenging activities showed almost similar results in terms of high activity at lowest concentrations.
ABTS-scavenging activity was displayed only by a particular
antioxidant concentration of 0.1%. Lipid peroxidation assay pronounced the activity of 0.1%
antioxidant in inhibiting oxidation of sensitive bioactive
lipids. In vitro antidenaturation test again specified the efficacy of low concentrations in preventing protein denaturation. Through this study a definite dosage formulation for consumption of
carotenoids is being proposed which will enhance health promotion and prevent
chronic diseases when taken as fortified foods or dietary supplements.