Lycopene is a carotenoid found in plant-based foods and is also a red pigment. It is a linear hydrocarbon composed of 11 conjugated double bonds and two non-conjugated double bonds. Although it lacks vitamin A physiological activity, it exhibits strong antioxidant functions. Lycopene is a very important carotenoid and serves as an intermediate in the biosynthesis of many carotenoids.
This kit uses organic solvent to extract the sample, and absorbance is measured at 502 nm. At this wavelength, the light absorption of β-carotene is minimal, thus avoiding its interference.