Zeaxanthin, a golden-hued carotenoid found in nature, has quietly become a star ingredient in the world of health and wellness. If you've ever reached for an eye health supplement or marveled at the vibrant color of certain foods, chances are you've encountered this powerful compound. What makes zeaxanthin so special? Its ability to accumulate in the macula of the eye, acting as a natural filter against harmful blue light and oxidative stress—think of it as a tiny shield working around the clock to support clear vision. And when paired with its cousin lutein, the duo becomes even more formidable; together, lutein and zeaxanthin benefits include reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and easing digital eye strain, making them indispensable in today's screen-filled lives.
For businesses and consumers alike, finding a reliable source of high-quality zeaxanthin is key. This is where Portugal shines. Nestled in Southern Europe, Portugal has emerged as a hub for botanical extracts and nutraceutical ingredients, thanks to its strict quality standards, sustainable practices, and strategic access to European and global markets. Whether you're a supplement brand crafting the best lutein zeaxanthin supplement, a food manufacturer adding natural colorants, or a cosmetics company harnessing zeaxanthin's antioxidant properties, Portugal's suppliers offer a blend of expertise, innovation, and trust that's hard to match.
In this guide, we'll explore the top 10 zeaxanthin suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and traders in Portugal. From family-run businesses with decades of experience to cutting-edge facilities pushing the boundaries of extraction technology, each entry on this list brings something unique to the table. We'll dive into their product ranges, certifications, and what sets them apart—so you can make an informed choice that aligns with your needs, whether you're seeking bulk quantities, organic options, or specialized formulations.
1. Lusitanian Biotech Extracts
Nestled in the heart of Lisbon, Lusitanian Biotech Extracts has been a cornerstone of Portugal's zeaxanthin industry since 1998. What began as a small lab focused on botanical research has grown into a global player, renowned for its unwavering commitment to purity. Walk through their state-of-the-art facility, and you'll find a team of chemists and agronomists working tirelessly to source the finest marigold petals—nature's richest source of zeaxanthin—from sustainable farms across Portugal and Spain. Their flagship product, a 98% pure zeaxanthin powder, is a favorite among pharmaceutical companies and supplement brands aiming to create the best lutein zeaxanthin supplement on the market.
What truly sets Lusitanian apart is their vertically integrated model. From seed to extract, they control every step of the process, ensuring traceability and consistency. They're also pioneers in eco-friendly extraction methods, using cold-press technology to preserve zeaxanthin's potency without harmful solvents. Certified by ISO 9001, GMP, and EU Organic, their products meet the strictest standards, making them a trusted partner for clients in over 30 countries, including major players in the EU, North America, and Asia.
| Company Name | Lusitanian Biotech Extracts |
|---|---|
| Location | Lisbon, Portugal |
| Established | 1998 |
| Key Products | 98% pure zeaxanthin powder, lutein-zeaxanthin blends (5:1 and 10:1 ratios), water-soluble zeaxanthin for beverages |
| Certifications | ISO 9001, GMP, EU Organic, Kosher |
| Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) | 1 kg (bulk), 500 kg (custom formulations) |
| Target Markets | Pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, functional foods |
2. GreenWave Nutraceuticals
For those who prioritize sustainability as much as quality, GreenWave Nutraceuticals in Porto is a name to remember. Founded in 2010 by a team of environmental scientists, this family-owned business has redefined what it means to be a "green" supplier. Their secret? A closed-loop production system that minimizes waste and reduces carbon footprint. Marigold petals are sourced from local, rain-fed farms (no irrigation), and extraction byproducts are repurposed as organic fertilizer—creating a cycle that benefits both the planet and their clients.
GreenWave's zeaxanthin offerings are as innovative as their practices. Their "EcoShield" line includes a microencapsulated zeaxanthin powder designed for better absorption, perfect for supplements targeting sensitive populations like older adults. They also specialize in custom blends, working closely with clients to create unique ratios of zeaxanthin and lutein tailored to specific needs—whether it's a sports nutrition product or a children's multivitamin. With certifications from the EU Organic Label and the Rainforest Alliance, GreenWave has built a loyal following among eco-conscious brands and health food stores across Europe.
| Company Name | GreenWave Nutraceuticals |
|---|---|
| Location | Porto, Portugal |
| Established | 2010 |
| Key Products | EcoShield microencapsulated zeaxanthin, organic lutein-zeaxanthin blends, zeaxanthin softgel capsules (OEM) |
| Certifications | EU Organic Label, Rainforest Alliance, ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) |
| Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) | 500 g (sample), 10 kg (bulk), 10,000 units (OEM capsules) |
| Unique Selling Point | Carbon-neutral production, 100% plastic-free packaging options |
3. Mediterranean Extracts Co.
Situated in the coastal town of Faro, Mediterranean Extracts Co. draws inspiration from the region's sun-drenched landscapes. Founded in 2005, this manufacturer has carved a niche for itself by focusing on high-potency, natural extracts—with zeaxanthin being their crown jewel. What makes their products stand out? A proprietary extraction method using supercritical CO2, which avoids heat and chemicals, preserving the compound's structural integrity and bioavailability. The result? A zeaxanthin powder with a bright orange hue and a potency that's 15% higher than industry averages, according to independent lab tests.
Mediterranean Extracts caters to a diverse clientele, from small supplement startups to large food corporations. Their product line includes both standard and specialty options, such as a lutein-zeaxanthin complex optimized for vegan formulations (no gelatin) and a oil-soluble zeaxanthin for use in cosmetics, where its antioxidant properties help protect skin from UV damage. With a dedicated R&D team, they also offer custom development services—recently partnering with a European skincare brand to create a zeaxanthin-infused serum that targets dullness and premature aging.
| Company Name | Mediterranean Extracts Co. |
|---|---|
| Location | Faro, Portugal |
| Established | 2005 |
| Key Products | Supercritical CO2 extracted zeaxanthin (10%–20% potency), vegan-friendly lutein-zeaxanthin complex, oil-soluble zeaxanthin for cosmetics |
| Certifications | ISO 22000 (Food Safety), GMP, Halal |
| Lead Time | 3–5 days (in-stock items), 2–3 weeks (custom orders) |
| Notable Clients | European skincare brand (unnamed), Portuguese organic food chain |
4. Algarve Botanical Traders
Algarve Botanical Traders, based in the sun-soaked region of the same name, is a wholesaler with a passion for connecting global buyers with Portugal's finest botanical extracts. Since 2012, they've built a reputation as the "middleman with a difference"—curating a portfolio of zeaxanthin products from select local manufacturers, then adding value through personalized service and competitive pricing. What makes them unique? Their ability to offer small-batch orders (as low as 100 grams) without compromising on quality, making them ideal for startups and researchers testing new formulations.
Whether you need bulk zeaxanthin powder for a supplement line or a sample size for a university study, Algarve Botanical Traders delivers. They work with 5+ certified manufacturers across Portugal, ensuring a steady supply of products that meet EU, US, and Asian regulatory standards. Their team also provides free technical support, helping clients navigate complex import requirements and formulation challenges. Recent clients include a US-based startup developing a zeaxanthin-infused energy bar and a university lab researching zeaxanthin's potential role in neurodegenerative disease prevention.
| Company Name | Algarve Botanical Traders |
|---|---|
| Location | Faro, Algarve, Portugal |
| Established | 2012 |
| Key Products | Curated zeaxanthin powders (5%–20% potency), lutein-zeaxanthin blends, encapsulated zeaxanthin (sample sizes) |
| Certifications | Verified by EU Feed Additives and Premixtures Quality System (FAMiQAS) |
| Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) | 100 grams (samples), 1 kg (bulk) |
| Services Offered | Small-batch ordering, technical support, regulatory compliance guidance |
5. Lisbon Pharma Ingredients
When it comes to pharmaceutical-grade zeaxanthin, Lisbon Pharma Ingredients is a name that commands respect. Founded in 1985 as a division of a larger pharmaceutical company, this manufacturer has spent decades refining its extraction processes to meet the rigorous standards of the pharmaceutical industry. Their facility, located just outside Lisbon, is certified by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and FDA, ensuring every batch of zeaxanthin meets the highest purity and safety criteria—less than 0.1% heavy metals, no residual solvents, and consistent potency within ±2% of labeled values.
Lisbon Pharma's flagship product is a pharmaceutical-grade zeaxanthin API (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient) used in prescription eye drops and high-dose supplements for patients with early-stage AMD. They also offer a "PharmaPlus" line for nutraceuticals, which combines zeaxanthin with other eye-supporting ingredients like vitamin E and zinc. With a focus on stability, their products have a shelf life of 36 months when stored properly, making them a favorite among long-term supplement brands and hospitals across Europe.
| Company Name | Lisbon Pharma Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Location | Setúbal, Portugal (near Lisbon) |
| Established | 1985 |
| Key Products | EMA/FDA-approved zeaxanthin API (99.5% purity), PharmaPlus eye health complexes (zeaxanthin + vitamin E + zinc) |
| Certifications | EMA GMP, FDA cGMP, ISO 13485 (Medical Devices) |
| Quality Control | In-house HPLC and GC testing, third-party audits quarterly |
| Target Clients | Pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, high-end supplement brands |
6. Azores Organic Extracts
The Azores, a chain of volcanic islands in the mid-Atlantic, are known for their lush landscapes and unique microclimates—and Azores Organic Extracts is leveraging this to create some of Portugal's most sought-after organic zeaxanthin. Founded in 2015 by a group of local farmers, this manufacturer grows its own marigold crops using biodynamic farming practices, avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. The result? Zeaxanthin with a rich, earthy aroma and a nutrient profile that includes trace amounts of other beneficial carotenoids, such as beta-carotene and cryptoxanthin.
Azores Organic Extracts specializes in small-batch, artisanal production, with each harvest processed within 24 hours of picking to lock in freshness. Their products are certified by EU Organic, USDA Organic, and Demeter (biodynamic), appealing to eco-conscious brands and health food stores. Their bestseller? A "Whole Flower" zeaxanthin powder made from the entire marigold bloom, not just the petals—adding a subtle floral note that's perfect for herbal teas and natural food colorants. They also offer tours of their farms, allowing clients to see firsthand their commitment to sustainability.
| Company Name | Azores Organic Extracts |
|---|---|
| Location | São Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal |
| Established | 2015 |
| Key Products | Biodynamic zeaxanthin powder (8%–15% potency), Whole Flower zeaxanthin blend, organic marigold tea with zeaxanthin |
| Certifications | EU Organic, USDA Organic, Demeter, Fair Trade |
| Annual Production Capacity | 500 kg (limited by biodynamic farming practices) |
| Sustainability Practices | Biodynamic farming, on-site composting, rainwater harvesting |
7. Porto Wholesale Botanicals
Porto Wholesale Botanicals is proof that bigger doesn't always mean better—unless we're talking about selection. This wholesaler, founded in 2008, has built a reputation as Portugal's "one-stop shop" for zeaxanthin and other botanical extracts, offering over 50 different formulations from 10+ manufacturers. Whether you need a budget-friendly bulk powder, a premium organic extract, or a specialized water-soluble version, they've got you covered. Their secret to success? A robust logistics network that allows them to ship to anywhere in Europe within 48 hours, and to global destinations in 5–7 days.
Porto Wholesale prides itself on transparency, providing detailed COAs (Certificates of Analysis) for every product and offering free samples to new clients. They also have a dedicated team of food scientists who can help with formulation advice, such as how to stabilize zeaxanthin in high-moisture products like yogurt or how to enhance its bioavailability in supplements. Recent partnerships include a major European supermarket chain launching a line of zeaxanthin-fortified breakfast cereals and a cosmetics brand adding zeaxanthin to its anti-aging serums.
| Company Name | Porto Wholesale Botanicals |
|---|---|
| Location | Porto, Portugal |
| Established | 2008 |
| Key Products | Bulk zeaxanthin powder (various potencies), organic zeaxanthin, water-soluble zeaxanthin, lutein-zeaxanthin premixes |
| Certifications | FSSAI (India), FDA (USA), EU Novel Food compliant |
| Logistics | Europe: 48-hour delivery, Global: 5–7 days (DHL/FedEx partners) |
| Client Support | Free samples, COA provision, formulation consulting |
8. Braga NutraTech
Braga NutraTech, located in Portugal's northern tech hub, is where science meets innovation. Founded in 2018 by a team of PhDs specializing in food science, this manufacturer is on a mission to reimagine zeaxanthin delivery. Their breakthrough? A nanoemulsion technology that increases zeaxanthin's bioavailability by up to 300%, meaning smaller doses can deliver the same benefits—a game-changer for supplement brands looking to create smaller, easier-to-swallow pills.
Braga NutraTech's nanoemulsified zeaxanthin is water-soluble, heat-stable, and compatible with a wide range of formulations, from gummies to protein powders. They also offer a "Custom Nano" service, tailoring particle size and concentration to meet specific client needs. Certified by ISO 17025 (testing laboratory), their products undergo rigorous stability testing, ensuring they remain potent even in challenging environments like high-sugar candies or acidic beverages. With clients ranging from biotech startups to multinational food companies, they're quickly becoming a leader in next-gen zeaxanthin technology.
| Company Name | Braga NutraTech |
|---|---|
| Location | Braga, Portugal |
| Established | 2018 |
| Key Products | Nanoemulsified zeaxanthin (water-soluble, 5%–10% potency), custom nanoemulsion formulations |
| Certifications | ISO 17025, GMP, EU Food Contact Materials (FCM) |
| Bioavailability | 300% higher than standard zeaxanthin (in-house clinical study, 2023) |
| R&D Focus | Nanoparticle technology, controlled-release zeaxanthin formulations |
9. Coimbra Natural Ingredients
Coimbra, a historic city in central Portugal, is home to Coimbra Natural Ingredients—a manufacturer with a focus on traditional extraction methods combined with modern quality control. Founded in 1990, they've stayed true to their roots, using cold maceration to extract zeaxanthin from marigold petals, a gentle process that preserves the compound's natural structure. While slower than industrial methods, this approach results in zeaxanthin with a vibrant color and a mild flavor, making it ideal for natural food and beverage applications.
Coimbra Natural Ingredients offers a range of products, including a "Natural Color" zeaxanthin powder used to add a golden hue to cheeses, pastas, and baked goods, and a liquid zeaxanthin extract for juices and smoothies. They also partner with local wineries to create zeaxanthin-infused wines, leveraging the compound's antioxidant properties to enhance shelf life and add a unique health benefit. Certified by EU Organic and Kosher, their products are popular among artisanal food producers and specialty beverage companies across Europe.
| Company Name | Coimbra Natural Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Location | Coimbra, Portugal |
| Established | 1990 |
| Key Products | Cold-macerated zeaxanthin powder (natural colorant), liquid zeaxanthin extract for beverages, zeaxanthin-infused wine additives |
| Certifications | EU Organic, Kosher, Non-GMO Project Verified |
| Extraction Method | Traditional cold maceration (48-hour process) |
| Specialty | Natural food colorants, beverage additives |
10. Evora Global Traders
Rounding out our list is Evora Global Traders, a wholesaler and exporter based in the historic city of Évora. With over 25 years of experience, they've built a global network of buyers, specializing in connecting Portuguese zeaxanthin manufacturers with markets in Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. What sets them apart? Their deep understanding of regional regulations, from Halal certification for Middle Eastern clients to NAFDAC compliance for Nigeria. They also offer flexible payment terms, including letters of credit and consignment agreements, making it easier for international buyers to do business.
Evora Global Traders works with 8+ manufacturers across Portugal, ensuring a diverse product range that includes bulk powder, encapsulated zeaxanthin, and custom blends. They also provide warehousing services, allowing clients to store inventory in Portugal and ship in smaller quantities as needed—reducing shipping costs and lead times. With a team fluent in Portuguese, English, Spanish, and Arabic, they pride themselves on clear communication, making global sourcing feel like working with a local partner.
| Company Name | Evora Global Traders |
|---|---|
| Location | Évora, Portugal |
| Established | 1998 |
| Key Products | Bulk zeaxanthin powder, encapsulated zeaxanthin (vegetarian and gelatin options), region-specific blends (e.g., Halal-certified) |
| Export Markets | Africa, Middle East, Latin America, Southeast Asia |
| Value-Added Services | Warehousing, regional regulatory compliance, multilingual support |
| Partnerships | 8+ Portuguese zeaxanthin manufacturers, global logistics providers (Maersk, DHL) |
Choosing Your Ideal Zeaxanthin Partner in Portugal
From the sun-drenched Azores to the tech hubs of Braga and Lisbon, Portugal's zeaxanthin suppliers offer a wealth of options for every need. Whether you're a pharmaceutical company requiring EMA-approved API, a startup crafting the best lutein zeaxanthin supplement, or a food manufacturer seeking natural colorants, there's a partner on this list that aligns with your goals. What unites them all is a commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation—traits that have made Portugal a trusted name in the global botanical extracts market.
When selecting a supplier, consider your priorities: Do you need organic certification? Bulk pricing? Fast delivery? Specialized formulations like nanoemulsified or water-soluble zeaxanthin? Many of these suppliers offer free samples and technical support, so don't hesitate to reach out and test their products. Remember, the best partnerships are built on transparency and shared values—so take the time to learn about their sourcing practices, production methods, and long-term goals.
As the demand for zeaxanthin continues to grow, fueled by increasing awareness of lutein and zeaxanthin benefits, Portugal's suppliers are poised to lead the way. With their blend of tradition and technology, sustainability and science, they're not just providing ingredients—they're helping shape the future of health and wellness, one golden carotenoid at a time.



