ABSTRACT
Microalgae are a potential source of bioactive molecules such as lipids, fatty acids, carotenoids, proteins, minerals, amino acids, hydrocarbons, carbohydrates and so on for commercial applications such as the food, feed, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical industries. Among bioactive molecules from algae, carotenoids are gaining recognition in the global market for food applications. As per the literature, several algal species such as Haematococcus pluvialis, Dunaliella salina, Chlorococcum sps ., Botryococcus braunii and Spirulina platensis have been used to produce carotenoids, and more work is required to make the process cost effective. The global market for astaxanthin for use in various commercial applications is estimated to reach $1.1 billion by 2020. In this context, the current chapter is focused on the production of astaxanthin and its esters from H. pluvialis. Astaxanthin and its esters are accumulated in large amounts in H. pluvialis. Astaxanthin acts as a strong colorant agent and also has antioxidant properties. Further, it is used in medical, nutraceutical, cosmeceutical, food and feed applications. This chapter covers the occurrence of astaxanthin 122in nature, its accumulation, biomass production, downstream processing, chemistry and its possible role in various biological activities. Further available scientific literatures in the above studies are presented to provide a understanding of the utility of algal astaxanthin and its esters for varied applications.
