Crocin-1 is a diester that is crocetin in which both of the carboxy groups have been converted to their gentiobiosyl esters. It is one of the water-soluble yellow-red pigments of saffron and is used as a spice for flavouring and colouring food. Note that in India, the term 'Crocin' is also used by GlaxoSmithKline as a brand-name for paracetamol. It has a role as an antioxidant, a food colouring, a plant metabolite and a histological dye.

CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

PRODUCT USAGE

Gardenia Yellow, a high-quality natural pigment extracted from the fruit of Gardenia jasminoides, is widely utilized in the food and beverage industry for its excellent water solubility and stability. It provides a vibrant, natural yellow-to-golden hue to products such as instant noodles, fruit juices, confectionery, and bakery items. In the textile and dyeing sector, it is valued as an eco-friendly bio-dye for silk and wool, offering good affinity for natural fibers. Beyond its coloring properties, Gardenia Yellow is highly regarded in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries for its rich content of crocin, which possesses potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and choleretic benefits. Furthermore, it is increasingly used in the cosmetic industry as a functional ingredient in natural skincare formulations, helping to brighten skin tone and protect against oxidative stress.