Madagascar, known for its vanilla and biodiversity, has quietly become a hub for marigold cultivation—a primary source of natural lutein and zeaxanthin. Its tropical climate, fertile soil, and sustainable farming practices create ideal conditions for growing marigolds rich in these carotenoids. For businesses in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, or food industries, Madagascar's network of suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and traders offers a diverse range of options, from organic extracts to bulk raw materials.
In this guide, we're exploring the top 10 zeaxanthin players in Madagascar. Whether you're a small brand seeking organic ingredients or a large corporation needing pharmaceutical-grade extracts, we'll break down what makes each company unique, their standout products, and why they've earned a spot on this list. Let's dive in!
1. Madagascar Marigold Extracts Co. (MMEC)
Madagascar Marigold Extracts Co. (MMEC)
Type: Manufacturer & Supplier
When locals talk about zeaxanthin in Madagascar, MMEC is often the first name mentioned. Founded in 2005 by a family of agronomists, this vertically integrated manufacturer has grown from a small marigold farm in the central highlands to one of the country's largest producers. What sets MMEC apart? They control every step—from planting marigold seeds to extracting and refining the final powder—ensuring consistency you can trust.
Their product lineup includes standard zeaxanthin extracts (5% to 20% concentration), organic options, and popular lutein-zeaxanthin blends (think 5:1 ratios, perfect for eye health supplements). MMEC is certified by ISO 9001 and Ecocert Organic, and they're passionate about community impact: they partner with over 200 local farmers, providing training and fair prices. For businesses that value transparency and social responsibility, MMEC is a standout choice.
2. Tana Zeaxanthin Traders
Tana Zeaxanthin Traders
Type: Wholesaler & Trader
Based in Antananarivo, Madagascar's capital, Tana Zeaxanthin Traders has built a reputation for speed and flexibility. Unlike manufacturers, they don't grow marigolds—instead, they partner with small extractors across the country, aggregating products to offer bulk quantities at competitive prices. Need 500kg of 10% zeaxanthin powder for a new supplement line? They can deliver in 1-2 weeks, a timeline that outpaces many competitors.
What clients love most is their transparency: every batch comes with a detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA), so you know exactly what you're getting. They also speak fluent English, French, and Malagasy, making communication a breeze for international buyers. For startups or businesses working with tight deadlines, Tana Traders is a reliable ally.
3. Atsinanana Bioactives Ltd.
Atsinanana Bioactives Ltd.
Type: Manufacturer & Exporter
Atsinanana Bioactives is a newer player (founded in 2018) but has quickly made waves with its focus on high-purity extracts. A team of biochemists and agronomists started the company with a mission: to produce zeaxanthin that meets pharmaceutical-grade standards. Today, their 20% zeaxanthin beadlet—designed for easy use in tablets and capsules—is a hit with pharmaceutical companies worldwide.
Their secret? Supercritical CO2 extraction, a method that uses pressurized carbon dioxide instead of harsh solvents, preserving the carotenoid's integrity. They're also big on sustainability: solar-powered facilities and drip-irrigated farms reduce their carbon footprint. Certified by GMP and working toward FDA approval, Atsinanana is perfect for businesses needing the purest, most stable zeaxanthin.
4. Indian Ocean Zeaxanthin Wholesalers (IOZW)
Indian Ocean Zeaxanthin Wholesalers (IOZW)
Type: Wholesaler & Trader
IOZW specializes in connecting Madagascar's zeaxanthin producers with buyers across the Indian Ocean and beyond—Australia, South Africa, and Southeast Asia. With offices in Madagascar and Mauritius, they've built a logistics network that ensures timely shipping, even to remote locations. Their product range is impressive: crude marigold oleoresin (raw extract), refined powders, and water-soluble formulations for beverages.
What makes IOZW unique is their customization. Need a specific lutein-to-zeaxanthin ratio (like 3:1 for general eye health)? They'll work with manufacturers to create it. They also offer free samples within 3 days, so you can test quality before committing. For businesses needing tailored solutions, IOZW delivers.
5. Analamanga Organic Extracts
Analamanga Organic Extracts
Type: Manufacturer & Supplier
For brands shouting "organic" from the rooftops, Analamanga Organic Extracts is a dream partner. Located in the Analamanga region, this manufacturer grows 100% organic marigolds, certified by both USDA Organic and EU Organic. No synthetic pesticides, no GMOs—just pure, sun-ripened flowers turned into high-quality zeaxanthin.
Their products include organic powders (5% to 15% concentration), liquid extracts, and even cold-pressed marigold oil—popular in luxury skincare for its antioxidant and anti-aging benefits. Analamanga works with small-scale farmers using traditional, biodiversity-friendly practices, so you're not just buying an ingredient—you're supporting heritage farming. For clean-label brands, this is a story worth telling.
6. Sambava Zeaxanthin Traders
Sambava Zeaxanthin Traders
Type: Trader & Exporter
Sambava, a coastal city famous for vanilla, is now making a name in zeaxanthin thanks to this trader. Founded by vanilla exporters who spotted an opportunity in carotenoids, they leverage their existing logistics network to ship zeaxanthin globally—fast. Their specialty? Bulk, unrefined zeaxanthin oleoresin, a cost-effective option for manufacturers who handle their own refining.
Sambava Traders is committed to fair trade, ensuring farmers get a minimum price per kilogram of marigold flowers. They also offer flexible payment terms, including letters of credit, which is a boon for international buyers. If you're after raw material at a great price, with the reliability of a team experienced in global exports, look no further.
7. Fianarantsoa Marigold Extracts
Fianarantsoa Marigold Extracts
Type: Manufacturer
Innovation is the name of the game at Fianarantsoa Marigold Extracts. This manufacturer, based in the southern highlands, was the first in Madagascar to introduce microencapsulated zeaxanthin—tiny beads that protect the carotenoid from heat, light, and oxygen. This makes their extracts ideal for processed foods like energy bars or fortified cereals, where stability is key.
Their product line includes microencapsulated powders (5% to 10%) and water-dispersible liquids for drinks. They even hold patents for their encapsulation techniques, giving clients a unique edge. Fianarantsoa also partners with local universities to research new applications, like zeaxanthin-enriched animal feed. For businesses wanting cutting-edge ingredients, this is a trailblazer.
8. Madagascar Natural Ingredients (MNI)
Madagascar Natural Ingredients (MNI)
Type: Wholesaler & Supplier
MNI is a one-stop shop for botanical extracts, and their zeaxanthin offerings are just the start. Alongside standard and organic extracts, they sell vanilla, baobab, and rosewood extracts—perfect for brands needing multiple ingredients. Their zeaxanthin blends are tailored to specific uses: 5:1 lutein-zeaxanthin for eye health, 1:1 for advanced macular support, and more.
What small businesses love? No minimum order. Whether you need 1kg for testing or 1000kg for production, MNI delivers. They also offer sample packs (50g-100g) and an easy online ordering system. Plus, their blog is a goldmine of info—guides on zeaxanthin benefits, usage rates, and regulatory tips. For startups, MNI feels like a supportive partner, not just a supplier.
9. Antsirabe Zeaxanthin Manufacturers
Antsirabe Zeaxanthin Manufacturers
Type: Manufacturer
Antsirabe, known for its thermal springs, is home to this manufacturer specializing in high-purity zeaxanthin. Their state-of-the-art facility, built in 2020, uses advanced chromatography to produce extracts up to 30% concentration—pharmaceutical grade. Each batch is tested for heavy metals, pesticides, and microbes, ensuring it meets the strictest global standards.
They've also vertically integrated by acquiring a 500-acre marigold farm, securing their raw material supply and reducing costs. Their sustained-release zeaxanthin beads are a hit with pharmaceutical companies, offering long-acting benefits in supplements. Certified by GMP and ISO 13485, Antsirabe is the go-to for businesses needing precision and purity.
10. Mahajanga Bio Extracts
Mahajanga Bio Extracts
Type: Trader & Supplier
Rounding out our list is Mahajanga Bio Extracts, based in the port city of Mahajanga. Their coastal location means faster shipping—exports reach Europe or the Middle East in days, not weeks. They specialize in bundled lutein and zeaxanthin, with their 10% 5:1 blend being a staple in over-the-counter eye supplements.
Mahajanga prides itself on affordability and customer service. They assign a dedicated account manager to each client, who handles everything from order updates to customs docs. They even offer private labeling for small brands, letting you slap your logo on their pre-made extracts. For businesses new to importing, this personalized support makes the process stress-free.
Top 10 Zeaxanthin Suppliers: At a Glance
| Rank | Company Name | Type | Key Products | Certifications | Why They Stand Out |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Madagascar Marigold Extracts Co. (MMEC) | Manufacturer & Supplier | Organic/standard zeaxanthin (5-20%), lutein blends | ISO 9001, Ecocert Organic | Vertically integrated, community farming |
| 2 | Tana Zeaxanthin Traders | Wholesaler & Trader | Bulk zeaxanthin powder (various concentrations) | ISO 14001 | Fast turnaround, competitive pricing |
| 3 | Atsinanana Bioactives Ltd. | Manufacturer & Exporter | 20% pharmaceutical-grade zeaxanthin beadlet | GMP, pending FDA | Supercritical CO2 extraction, solar-powered |
| 4 | Indian Ocean Zeaxanthin Wholesalers (IOZW) | Wholesaler & Trader | Oleoresin, refined powder, water-soluble blends | Fair Trade Certified | Custom ratios, Indian Ocean logistics |
| 5 | Analamanga Organic Extracts | Manufacturer & Supplier | USDA/EU Organic zeaxanthin, cold-pressed oil | USDA Organic, EU Organic | 100% organic, traditional farming |
| 6 | Sambava Zeaxanthin Traders | Trader & Exporter | Bulk unrefined zeaxanthin oleoresin | Fair Trade | Cost-effective raw material, vanilla export network |
| 7 | Fianarantsoa Marigold Extracts | Manufacturer | Microencapsulated zeaxanthin, water-dispersible liquids | GMP, ISO 22000 | Innovative encapsulation, research partnerships |
| 8 | Madagascar Natural Ingredients (MNI) | Wholesaler & Supplier | Zeaxanthin, lutein blends, multi-botanical extracts | ISO 9001 | No minimum order, educational resources |
| 9 | Antsirabe Zeaxanthin Manufacturers | Manufacturer | 30% high-purity zeaxanthin, sustained-release beads | GMP, ISO 13485 | Pharmaceutical grade, vertical integration |
| 10 | Mahajanga Bio Extracts | Trader & Supplier | 10% lutein-zeaxanthin blend (5:1), private labeling | Halal, Kosher | Port proximity, dedicated account managers |
For organic brands, Analamanga or MMEC are top picks. If you need bulk raw material, Sambava or Mahajanga deliver. And for cutting-edge formulations, Fianarantsoa's microencapsulated extracts can set your products apart. No matter your needs, Madagascar's zeaxanthin network offers quality, reliability, and a touch of that island magic. Here's to finding your perfect match!
