Table 2 Structures, application areas and color of the carotenoid compounds found in Neurospora intermedia N-1 namely lycopene, neurosporen, γ-caroten, β-carotene and phytoene
From: Filamentous ascomycetes fungi as a source of natural pigments
| Carotenoids | Structure | Applications | Color |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lycopene |
| High antioxidative activity [64] with beneficial effects on health by fighting many diseases [65]. Used in nutraceuticals and related applications [66]. Used for food coloring (E160d) [67] | Dark red [7] |
| Neurosporen |
| Antioxidative properties [68]. Data not found on industrial applications | Yellow-orange [68] |
| γ-Carotene |
| Data not found on industrial applications | Orange red [7] |
| β-Carotene |
| Used for food coloring (E160a) [67]. Beneficial effects on health by fighting many diseases [65] | Yellow to Orange [7] |
| Phytoene |
| Key carotenoid intermediate as a precursor to other carotenoids | Colorless [69] |