The Carotenoids of Italian Prunes

SUMMARY The major constituents of the carotenoid mixture of Italian prunes were found to be violaxanthin (35%), beta‐carotene (197&b), and. lutein (16%). Less abundant constituents included cryptoxanthin, cryptoxanthiu‐5,6‐epoxide, cryptoxanthin 5,6,5′,6′‐diepoxide, persicaxanthin, luteoxanthins, anthera‐xanthin, phytoene, and phytofluene. About 20 other carotenoids were' found as very minor constituents. The earotenoid mixture in Italian prunes was notable for its low content of 5,8‐epoxides.