In the field of nutrition and health, meso-zeaxanthin (MZ), a novel nutrient, is gradually emerging as a key player. It demonstrates broad development potential in areas such as visual health, immune health, and functional foods, and has already been widely applied across various food categories.

Meso-zeaxanthin, also known as meso-zeaxanthin and abbreviated as MZ, has the chemical formula (3R,3’S)-dihydroxy-β-carotene. Typically derived from natural marigold flowers through a series of precision processes—including dehydration, pulverization, extraction, isomerization, purification, and drying—it is obtained as an orange-red powder.

Classified as a dietary carotenoid, meso-zeaxanthin is distinct from common carotenoids due to its scarcity in nature. While primarily sourced from marigolds and certain edible fish and shrimp, daily dietary intake alone is insufficient to meet the growing demand for this nutrient.

Critical Role in Visual Health
Meso-zeaxanthin plays a pivotal role in maintaining visual health. The macular pigment (MP) in the central retina consists of lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin, collectively optimizing visual performance by reducing chromatic aberration, shielding against high luminance, and filtering blue light.

Notably, meso-zeaxanthin holds a unique position within the macular pigment, concentrating in the foveal center with a gradient distribution—its concentration increases progressively toward the retinal center.

Numerous studies have shown that zeaxanthin (including meso-zeaxanthin) selectively absorbs harmful blue light, a major contributor to retinal damage. By neutralizing blue light, meso-zeaxanthin mitigates oxidative stress and protects the retina.

For instance, experiments using a mouse model of oxidative damage demonstrated that microencapsulated meso-zeaxanthin products exhibited superior blue-light protection compared to non-microencapsulated counterparts.

Additionally, meso-zeaxanthin is critical for preventing age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Short-term increases in zeaxanthin intake (including meso-zeaxanthin) have been shown to enhance macular pigment density, fortifying the macula against harmful substances and light-induced damage, thereby slowing AMD progression.

Immune Health Benefits
Meso-zeaxanthin also exerts positive effects on immune health. As a carotenoid, it possesses robust antioxidant properties. During metabolism, the body generates free radicals that, when accumulated, cause cellular oxidative damage and impair immune function.

Meso-zeaxanthin scavenges these free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and preserving the normal function and activity of immune cells, thereby supporting overall immune health.

Innovations in Functional Foods
The application of meso-zeaxanthin has revolutionized functional food development. With rising consumer awareness of health, demand for functional foods has surged. Meso-zeaxanthin’s unique health benefits make it an ideal ingredient for innovative formulations.

– Baked Goods: Adding meso-zeaxanthin to breads and cakes not only enhances eye health benefits but also differentiates products in the market, appealing to health-conscious consumers.
– Beverages: From fruit juices to functional drinks and dairy beverages, meso-zeaxanthin elevates product value by providing health benefits. For example, eye-care-focused juices with meso-zeaxanthin attract users of electronic devices who experience frequent eye strain.
– Dairy Products: Incorporation into milk and yogurt introduces new functional attributes, catering to diverse consumer needs for nutrition and wellness.

As a novel nutrient, meso-zeaxanthin has garnered significant attention in nutrition and health research due to its remarkable benefits for visual and immune health, as well as its versatile applications in functional foods.

With ongoing research and market expansion, meso-zeaxanthin is poised to play an increasingly pivotal role across industries, fostering healthier lifestyles and delivering tangible benefits to consumers worldwide.