Carotenoids: Prominent Pigments Bridging the Colorful Wheel of SDGs

Carotenoids represent a vibrant and multifunctional class of isoprenoid pigments extensively distributed throughout photosynthetic organisms, including plants, algae, bacteria, and certain fungi and arthropods. Over recent decades, research in carotenoid biology has expanded beyond their roles in photosynthesis and coloration, delving into their significance for animal and human nutrition and health. Current evidence has established the importance of carotenoids such as β-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and lycopene in protecting against chronic diseases thanks to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Nonetheless, notable gaps persist regarding the complete spectrum of their benefits, bioavailability, optimal dietary sources, and how processing methods or integration in various products influence their nutritional value. Increasing attention is now being directed towards aligning carotenoid research with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on eradicating hunger, promoting health and wellbeing, and fostering responsible consumption.

This Research Topic aims to consolidate novel scientific contributions addressing the multifaceted roles of carotenoids in food systems, sustainability, and human health. Key objectives include uncovering strategies for improving the extraction and stability of carotenoids from plant, algae, and animal sources; evaluating the nutritional implications of these compounds for both animals and humans; and assessing the integration of carotenoids into sustainable food production practices to support broader health and environmental goals. Of particular interest are studies that link carotenoid science to practical applications in nutrition and global policy frameworks, fostering a bridge between foundational research and real-world impact.

This Research Topic encompasses investigations into the sources, extraction, processing, health effects, and sustainability aspects of carotenoids, while focusing on the interplay between human and planetary health. Submissions may range from original research and reviews to methods and policy analyses but should center on the interconnections between carotenoids and sustainable development. We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Extraction and valorization of carotenoids from plant, algae, and biowaste sources.
• Development and optimization of green extraction and processing technologies.
• Impact of food processing and culinary techniques on carotenoid bioaccessibility and bioavailability.
• Carotenoid content, bioavailability, and functions in animal feed and animal-derived foods.
• Absorption, metabolism, and physiological effects of carotenoids in humans.
• Role of carotenoids in modulating gut microbiota and chronic disease prevention.
• Integration of carotenoid research with SDG objectives for health and sustainability.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Conceptual Analysis
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Conceptual Analysis
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Policy and Practice Reviews
• Registered Report
• Review
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Carotenoids, Antioxidant, Bioavailability, Green Extraction, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Chronic Disease Prevention, Human Nutrition, Animal Nutrition, Health

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.