β-Carotene is a naturally occurring red-orange carotenoid pigment abundant in plants such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens. As a provitamin A compound, it is cleaved by the enzyme β-carotene 15,15'-monooxygenase in the intestinal mucosa to yield retinal, which is further converted to retinol (vitamin A). It features an extended conjugated polyene chain flanked by two β-ionone rings, conferring strong antioxidant properties by quenching singlet oxygen and neutralizing free radicals. Widely employed as a natural food colorant (E160a) and dietary supplement, it is highly lipophilic and accumulates in adipose tissue. Its biosynthesis occurs via the mevalonate pathway in plants, and deficiency leads to impaired vision and immune function.