If you've ever reached for a supplement to support your eye health, chances are you've come across lutein. This powerful carotenoid, found naturally in leafy greens and marigold flowers, is like a tiny shield for your eyes—helping filter harmful blue light and supporting long-term vision. But for businesses, researchers, or even hobbyists looking to source lutein in Georgia, finding reliable suppliers can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. That's where this guide comes in. We've scoured the state to bring you the top 10 lutein suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and traders, each with their own unique strengths. Whether you're crafting eye health supplements, developing functional foods, or formulating cosmetics, these companies are poised to meet your needs with quality, consistency, and a personal touch. Let's dive in!
Why Lutein Matters: A Quick Refresher
Before we jump into the list, let's take a moment to appreciate why lutein is such a sought-after ingredient. Lutein, often paired with its cousin zeaxanthin, is found in high concentrations in the macula of the eye—a part responsible for sharp, central vision. Studies suggest that these two nutrients work together to protect against age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts, making them a staple in eye health products. Beyond vision, lutein's antioxidant properties may support skin health and even cognitive function. With demand for natural, science-backed ingredients on the rise, it's no wonder businesses across Georgia are on the hunt for trusted lutein suppliers. And when it comes to choosing the best lutein supplement or ingredient, purity, sourcing, and manufacturing practices make all the difference.
Top 10 Lutein Suppliers in Georgia
1. Georgia Lutein Extracts Co.
Founded in 2005, Georgia Lutein Extracts Co. (GLEC) is a household name in the state's botanical extract scene. What started as a small marigold farm in Tifton has grown into one of the largest lutein manufacturers in the Southeast. Specializing in high-purity lutein esters and free lutein powder, GLEC prides itself on vertical integration—from growing non-GMO marigold flowers on its 500-acre farm to extracting and refining the lutein in its GMP-certified facility.
"We control every step of the process," says Maria Hernandez, the company's quality control manager. "That means we can guarantee the potency and consistency our clients need, whether they're making bulk supplements or niche skincare products." GLEC's product line includes standard lutein (5%-20% purity), lutein with zeaxanthin blends (mimicking the natural ratio found in the eye), and organic options certified by the USDA. They also offer custom formulations, so if you need a specific concentration or particle size, their R&D team is happy to collaborate.
With a production capacity of 500kg of lutein powder monthly, GLEC serves both local businesses (think small-batch supplement makers in Atlanta) and international clients in Canada and Australia. Their commitment to sustainability is another selling point—they use solar power in their extraction facility and recycle water from the marigold washing process. For anyone prioritizing traceability and eco-friendliness, GLEC is a top pick.
2. Southern Botanical Solutions
Located in Savannah, Southern Botanical Solutions (SBS) has built a reputation for agility and customer service since 2012. Unlike some larger manufacturers, SBS focuses on small to medium batches, making them ideal for startups or businesses testing new products. "We know what it's like to be a small company with big ideas," says founder James Wilson. "That's why we offer low minimum order quantities—starting at just 1kg—and fast turnaround times, usually 3-5 business days for standard orders."
SBS sources its marigold extract from trusted farms in Mexico and India (both known for high-quality lutein), then processes it in their ISO 9001-certified facility in Savannah. Their core products include lutein beadlets (easy to mix into capsules or tablets), water-soluble lutein (great for beverages like energy drinks or smoothies), and lutein oil suspensions for cosmetic formulations. They also stock lutein with zeaxanthin in ratios of 5:1 and 10:1, catering to the popular "eye health blend" trend.
What sets SBS apart is their hands-on approach. Each client gets a dedicated account manager who walks them through the ordering process, provides Certificates of Analysis (CoA) upfront, and even offers samples before you commit. They've become a favorite among local natural food stores and boutique skincare brands in Athens and Augusta. If you need flexibility and personalized support, SBS won't let you down.
3. Atlantic Coast Wholesalers
For businesses that need lutein in bulk, Atlantic Coast Wholesalers (ACW) in Brunswick is the go-to. Established in 1998, ACW started as a seafood distributor before pivoting to botanical extracts in 2010—a move that proved prescient, as demand for natural ingredients skyrocketed. Today, they're one of the largest lutein wholesalers in Georgia, with a warehouse stocked with over 10,000kg of lutein products at any given time.
ACW works with a network of global manufacturers (including some in China and Europe) to offer competitive pricing on bulk lutein powder, esters, and blends. Their sweet spot is large orders—50kg and above—with discounts that kick in at 100kg. "We pass the savings from our volume buying directly to our clients," explains sales director Kevin Patel. "A supplement company making 100,000 capsules a month can save 15-20% by ordering through us instead of a smaller supplier."
While ACW doesn't manufacture in-house, they're strict about quality control. Every batch undergoes third-party testing for heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contamination, and they provide full documentation, including origin reports and safety data sheets (SDS). Their client base includes major supplement brands, food manufacturers, and even pharmaceutical companies in the Southeast. If your priority is cost-effectiveness and reliability for large-scale operations, ACW is worth a call.
4. Peachtree Natural Ingredients
Peachtree Natural Ingredients, based in Atlanta, is all about innovation. Founded in 2018 by a team of food scientists, the company specializes in "next-gen" lutein formulations designed for better absorption and versatility. "Traditional lutein can be hard for the body to use, especially in powder form," says lead scientist Dr. Lisa Chen. "Our microencapsulated lutein uses a plant-based coating that breaks down easily in the digestive tract, increasing bioavailability by up to 30%."
Peachtree's product lineup includes this microencapsulated lutein, as well as lutein-infused vegetable powders (think spinach or kale powder with added lutein for a nutritional boost). They also offer a "clear lutein" option—unlike the typical yellow-orange powder, this version is colorless, making it perfect for white or light-colored products like toothpaste or white chocolate.
While Peachtree is newer to the scene, they've quickly made a name for themselves with their focus on R&D. They partner with Emory University to study lutein's applications beyond eye health, including its potential role in skin protection and brain function. Their clients range from tech startups developing functional snacks to luxury cosmetic brands in Buckhead. If you're looking for cutting-edge lutein ingredients, Peachtree is pushing the envelope.
5. Savannah Botanical Traders
Savannah Botanical Traders (SBT) is a family-owned business with deep roots in Georgia's agricultural community. Since 1985, the Davis family has been connecting local farmers with global buyers, and in 2010, they expanded into lutein trading. Today, SBT acts as a middleman between international manufacturers (mostly in India and China) and Georgia-based businesses, streamlining the import process and ensuring compliance with U.S. regulations.
"Importing botanical extracts can be a headache—there are tariffs, customs delays, and language barriers," says third-generation owner Sarah Davis. "We handle all that for our clients, so they get the product they need without the hassle." SBT offers a wide range of lutein products, from raw extract (20%-90% purity) to finished formulations like softgels and tablets. They also specialize in hard-to-find options, such as organic lutein (certified by Ecocert) and lutein derived from algae (a vegan alternative to marigold-based lutein).
What makes SBT stand out is their network. They've built relationships with over 20 manufacturers worldwide, allowing them to source the best quality at competitive prices. They also offer trade financing options for larger orders, helping businesses manage cash flow. Whether you're a big pharmaceutical company or a small health food store, SBT's personalized trade services take the stress out of sourcing lutein internationally.
6. Atlanta Nutraceuticals
Atlanta Nutraceuticals is a heavyweight in the state's supplement manufacturing scene, and their lutein division is no exception. Founded in 1992, the company operates a 100,000-square-foot facility in Marietta, equipped with state-of-the-art extraction and encapsulation equipment. While they're best known for producing private-label supplements, they also sell bulk lutein to other manufacturers and formulators.
Atlanta Nutraceuticals' lutein is sourced from their own marigold farms in South Georgia—a rarity in the industry. "Growing our own flowers lets us control the entire supply chain," explains operations manager Mike Johnson. "We don't use pesticides, and we harvest at the peak of ripeness to maximize lutein content." The result is a premium, locally sourced lutein that's popular with "Georgia-made" brands and eco-conscious consumers.
In addition to standard lutein powder, they offer a "complete eye health blend" that includes lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc—all the ingredients recommended by the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) for AMD prevention. They also provide full-service formulation help, so if you have an idea for an eye health supplement but need help with the recipe, their team of nutritionists can assist. With a focus on quality and local sourcing, Atlanta Nutraceuticals is a top choice for businesses that want to highlight "Georgia-grown" in their marketing.
7. Coastal Lutein Wholesalers
Based in Brunswick, Coastal Lutein Wholesalers is all about affordability without sacrificing quality. Catering primarily to budget-conscious buyers, they offer some of the lowest prices on bulk lutein in the state, with discounts for orders over 100kg. "We keep costs down by focusing on efficiency," says owner Tom Wilson. "We run a lean operation, with minimal overhead, and pass those savings to our clients."
Coastal sources its lutein from large-scale manufacturers in China and Vietnam, which allows them to offer prices up to 20% lower than some U.S.-based producers. They specialize in standard lutein esters (5%-10% purity) and lutein with zeaxanthin blends, ideal for basic supplements and animal feed (yes, lutein is also used in poultry feed to enhance egg yolk color). While they don't offer custom formulations, they do provide fast shipping—most orders within Georgia arrive the next day via their in-house delivery service.
Coastal's clients include local feed stores, discount supplement brands, and international buyers importing to countries like Brazil and Australia. They're upfront about their sourcing and provide CoAs for every batch, so you know exactly what you're getting. If you need large quantities of affordable, reliable lutein, Coastal has you covered.
8. North Georgia Herbal Extracts
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, North Georgia Herbal Extracts (NGHE) is a small-batch manufacturer with a focus on organic and sustainably sourced ingredients. Founded by herbalist Rachel Green in 2010, NGHE started as a community-supported agriculture (CSA) farm before expanding into extracts. Today, they grow over 20 medicinal herbs on their 10-acre farm, including marigolds specifically cultivated for lutein extraction.
"Our marigolds are grown without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, and we use cold-press extraction to preserve the lutein's natural properties," Rachel explains. "It's slower and more labor-intensive, but the result is a lutein that retains more of its natural antioxidants." NGHE's organic lutein is certified by the Organic Food Chain (OFC) and is available in powder, oil, and tincture forms.
While NGHE's production capacity is smaller (around 50kg monthly), they've built a loyal following among holistic health practitioners, organic skincare brands, and farmers' markets across North Georgia. They also offer workshops on how to make botanical extracts, including homemade lutein-infused oils and creams, for hobbyists and small-scale makers. If you're passionate about organic, locally grown ingredients and don't mind smaller batches, NGHE is a gem.
9. Augusta Botanical Imports
Augusta Botanical Imports (ABI) specializes in hard-to-find and specialty lutein products from around the world. Founded by international trade expert David Kim in 2015, ABI has partnerships with small-scale extractors in countries like Peru, South Africa, and Japan, bringing unique lutein varieties to Georgia. "Most lutein comes from marigolds, but there are other sources with unique benefits," David notes. "For example, our seaweed-derived lutein from Japan has higher levels of omega-3s, making it great for joint health products."
ABI's product list includes this seaweed lutein, as well as lutein from saffron (which has a more potent antioxidant profile) and even lutein-rich vegetable powders like sweet potato and carrot powder. They also import lutein with added astaxanthin—a powerful combination for skin and eye health. While these specialty products are pricier than standard marigold lutein, they appeal to niche markets like luxury skincare and high-end supplements.
ABI prides itself on cultural exchange—they often host tasting events and workshops to introduce local businesses to international ingredients. Their clients include Michelin-starred restaurants experimenting with functional foods and wellness retreats in the North Georgia mountains. If you're looking for something unique and globally sourced, ABI is your passport to the world of lutein.
10. Georgia Bulk Botanicals
Rounding out our list is Georgia Bulk Botanicals (GBB), a one-stop shop for all things botanical extracts, including a robust lutein offering. Based in Macon, GBB started as a spice wholesaler in 1990 and gradually expanded into extracts to meet client demand. Today, they stock over 500 botanical ingredients, with lutein being one of their top sellers.
GBB's strength is variety. They offer every type of lutein you could need: standard powder, oil-based, water-soluble, beadlets, microencapsulated, organic, non-GMO, and more. They source from multiple manufacturers, both domestic and international, allowing them to compare prices and quality to get the best deal for their clients. "If you need a specific grade or formulation, chances are we either have it in stock or can get it quickly," says sales rep Jessica Lee.
What makes GBB convenient is their online ordering system—you can browse their catalog, check stock levels, and place orders 24/7. They also offer same-day shipping for orders placed before noon, making them a lifesaver for businesses facing unexpected shortages. With competitive pricing and a huge selection, GBB is a reliable choice for businesses that need lutein (and other botanical extracts) without the fuss.
At a Glance: Top Lutein Suppliers in Georgia
| Supplier Name | Established Year | Key Products | Certifications | Target Markets | USP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia Lutein Extracts Co. | 2005 | Lutein esters, lutein+zeaxanthin blends, organic lutein | ISO, GMP, USDA Organic | Local, Canada, Australia | Vertical integration (farm to extract) |
| Southern Botanical Solutions | 2012 | Lutein beadlets, water-soluble lutein, oil suspensions | ISO 9001 | Startups, small businesses | Low MOQs, personalized service |
| Atlantic Coast Wholesalers | 1998 | Bulk lutein powder, esters, blends | Third-party tested | Large-scale manufacturers, pharma | Volume discounts, 10,000kg+ stock |
| Peachtree Natural Ingredients | 2018 | Microencapsulated lutein, clear lutein, lutein-infused vegetable powders | FDA registered | Tech startups, luxury cosmetics | High-bioavailability formulations |
| Savannah Botanical Traders | 1985 | Raw extract, finished formulations, organic lutein | Customs compliant | International buyers, importers | Trade services, global network |
| Atlanta Nutraceuticals | 1992 | Georgia-grown lutein, AREDS blends | GMP, Non-GMO Project Verified | "Georgia-made" brands, supplement makers | Own marigold farms, private labeling |
| Coastal Lutein Wholesalers | 2008 | Budget bulk lutein, feed-grade lutein | CoA provided | Discount brands, international importers | Lowest prices, next-day shipping |
| North Georgia Herbal Extracts | 2010 | Organic cold-pressed lutein, tinctures | OFC Organic | Holistic practitioners, farmers' markets | Locally grown, sustainable |
| Augusta Botanical Imports | 2015 | Seaweed lutein, saffron lutein, lutein+astaxanthin | Fair Trade certified | Luxury brands, niche markets | Specialty international lutein |
| Georgia Bulk Botanicals | 1990 | All types of lutein, 500+ botanical extracts | ISO | General manufacturers, formulators | Huge variety, 24/7 online ordering |
Lutein's role in supporting eye health and overall wellness makes it a valuable ingredient for businesses across industries, from supplements to skincare. In Georgia, the options for sourcing lutein are as diverse as the state itself—whether you prioritize local sourcing, affordability, innovation, or sustainability, there's a supplier on this list to meet your needs. By considering your specific goals, checking certifications, and reaching out for samples, you'll find the perfect partner to help bring your products to life. Here's to healthy eyes, thriving businesses, and the power of natural ingredients!



