If you've ever picked up a bottle of eye health supplements or a skincare product boasting "natural antioxidants," there's a good chance lutein was one of the star ingredients. This golden-hued carotenoid, found in leafy greens like spinach and kale, has become a staple in everything from dietary supplements to cosmetics, thanks to its reputation for supporting eye health, fighting oxidative stress, and even enhancing skin radiance. For businesses in Haiti looking to source high-quality lutein—whether for local supplement brands, international export, or niche cosmetic lines—finding reliable suppliers can feel like a daunting task. That's why we've put together this guide to the top 10 lutein suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and traders in Haiti. From family-run operations with decades of experience to innovative startups pushing the boundaries of extraction technology, these companies are shaping Haiti's role in the global lutein market. Let's dive in.
Why Lutein Matters—And Why Haiti Is a Rising Player
Before we meet the suppliers, let's take a quick step back: What makes lutein so sought after? For starters, it's a powerhouse for eye health. Lutein, along with its cousin zeaxanthin, accumulates in the macula of the eye, acting as a natural "sunscreen" to filter harmful blue light and protect against age-related macular degeneration (AMD). That's why you'll often see it paired with zeaxanthin in supplements like Preservision, a popular choice for eye care. But lutein's benefits don't stop at the eyes. In skincare, it's prized for its antioxidant properties, helping to neutralize free radicals and reduce the appearance of fine lines. In the food industry, it's used as a natural colorant, adding a vibrant yellow hue to everything from pasta to beverages.
So, where does Haiti fit in? While countries like China and India dominate the global lutein market, Haiti is carving out a niche. With its tropical climate, fertile soil, and growing focus on sustainable agriculture, the country is increasingly seen as a source of high-quality, ethically sourced raw materials—including the marigold flowers (a key source of lutein) and leafy greens that feed the lutein extraction process. Haitian suppliers are also known for their flexibility, offering everything from small-batch extracts for local startups to bulk shipments for international corporations. Now, let's meet the top players.
Top 10 Lutein Suppliers in Haiti
1. Haiti Natural Extracts Co. (HNECO)
Founded in 2005 in Port-au-Prince, Haiti Natural Extracts Co. (HNECO) is often called the "pioneer of Haitian lutein." What started as a small lab processing marigold petals has grown into one of the country's largest lutein manufacturers, with a 15,000-square-foot facility and a team of 75+ employees. HNECO specializes in high-purity lutein esters (the form most commonly used in supplements) and offers both powder and liquid extracts. What sets them apart? Their commitment to vertical integration: they partner with over 200 local farmers to grow organic marigolds, ensuring full traceability from seed to extract. "We know every farmer by name," says CEO Marie Joseph. "That's how we guarantee quality." HNECO's products are GMP-certified and tested by third-party labs in Miami, with lutein concentrations ranging from 5% to 98%—making them a favorite among pharmaceutical and supplement brands in the U.S. and Canada. They also offer custom formulations, including lutein-zeaxanthin blends, for clients looking to target specific health markets.
2. Caribbean Nutraceuticals Ltd.
If bulk wholesale is your priority, Caribbean Nutraceuticals Ltd. is the name to know. Based in Cap-Haïtien, this wholesaler and trader has built a reputation for competitive pricing and lightning-fast delivery. Founded in 2012 by a team of ex-pharmaceutical executives, they focus on sourcing lutein from both Haitian and international manufacturers (including HNECO and suppliers in the Dominican Republic) and repackaging it for bulk orders. Their sweet spot? Orders of 500kg or more, ideal for large supplement brands or food manufacturers. But don't let the "bulk" label fool you—quality is non-negotiable. Caribbean Nutraceuticals requires all suppliers to provide COAs (Certificates of Analysis) and conducts in-house testing for heavy metals and pesticides. They also offer a unique "just-in-time" delivery service, with a 48-hour turnaround for orders within Haiti and 5-7 days for international shipments via Port-au-Prince's seaport. "We understand that cash flow matters," says operations manager Jean-Pierre Dubois. "That's why we offer flexible payment terms and never lock clients into long-term contracts."
3. Green Leaf Botanicals
For brands prioritizing organic and sustainable sourcing, Green Leaf Botanicals is a standout. Located in Les Cayes, a coastal city known for its lush agriculture, this family-owned manufacturer has been extracting lutein from organic marigolds and kale since 1998. What makes them unique? They use a solvent-free extraction process, relying on cold-press technology to preserve lutein's potency without harsh chemicals. "Our grandparents taught us that the best extracts come from respecting the plant," says co-owner Sophie Laurent. "We don't rush the process—we let the plants dry naturally in the Haitian sun, then press them gently to release the oils and pigments." The result? A lutein extract with a rich, golden color and a minimum purity of 92%, certified organic by the USDA and EU's organic standards. Green Leaf primarily serves the cosmetic and natural food industries, offering small-batch extracts (starting at 1kg) for artisanal brands. They also export to Europe, where demand for organic ingredients is booming.
4. Haitian Lutein Traders (HLT)
Haitian Lutein Traders (HLT) is all about connections. As one of Haiti's largest traders, they act as a bridge between local farmers, small-scale extractors, and international buyers. Founded in 2010 in Port-au-Prince, HLT works with over 500 marigold farmers across the country, providing them with seeds, training, and fair prices for their crops. The company then aggregates the raw marigold petals, processes them into crude lutein extract, and sells it to manufacturers in the U.S., Canada, and Latin America. What's their USP? Transparency. HLT uses blockchain technology to track every batch from farm to buyer, allowing clients to see exactly where their lutein came from, how it was processed, and who grew it. "We believe in ethical trade," says founder Michel Augustin. "Farmers should get a fair share, and buyers should know exactly what they're paying for." HLT's crude extract is popular among manufacturers who want to refine the lutein further in-house, offering a cost-effective starting point for large-scale production.
5. Tropical Extracts Haiti
Innovation is the name of the game at Tropical Extracts Haiti, a startup that's shaking up the industry with its "supercritical CO2 extraction" method. Located in Gonaïves, this company uses high-pressure carbon dioxide to extract lutein from marigold flowers, resulting in a purer, more stable product than traditional solvent-based methods. "CO2 extraction is gentler on the lutein molecule," explains chief scientist Dr. Aisha Pierre. "It doesn't leave behind any residual solvents, and it preserves more of the plant's natural antioxidants—like vitamin E and beta-carotene—that work synergistically with lutein." The result is a premium extract with a purity of 99%, targeted at high-end supplement brands and pharmaceutical companies. Tropical Extracts also offers custom blends, including lutein-zeaxanthin combinations tailored to specific eye health formulations. While their prices are higher than some competitors, clients say the quality is worth it: "We've seen a 20% increase in customer retention since switching to their lutein," notes a rep from a Canadian supplement company.
6. Port-au-Prince Bulk Extracts
As the name suggests, Port-au-Prince Bulk Extracts is all about volume. This wholesaler, founded in 2015, specializes in large-scale lutein shipments, with a minimum order size of 1 ton. They source their lutein from a network of local manufacturers (including HNECO and Tropical Extracts) and package it in food-grade drums for export. What makes them a top choice for international buyers? Logistics. Located just 5 miles from Port-au-Prince's seaport, they can arrange shipping in as little as 3 days, with partnerships with major carriers like Maersk and CMA CGM. "We know time is money," says logistics director Carlos Mendez. "Our clients in Brazil and Mexico need their lutein fast, and we deliver." Port-au-Prince Bulk Extracts also offers competitive pricing for repeat orders, with discounts of up to 15% for clients who commit to quarterly shipments. They're particularly popular with food manufacturers, who use their lutein as a natural colorant in products like margarine and breakfast cereals.
7. Haitian Organic Botanicals (HOB)
Haitian Organic Botanicals (HOB) is a small but mighty player, focusing on niche markets like vegan and cruelty-free cosmetics. Based in Jacmel, a city known for its artisanal culture, HOB prides itself on "slow extraction"—a method that takes 3-4 weeks but results in a lutein extract rich in phytonutrients. "We don't just extract lutein; we extract the whole plant's goodness," says founder Lisette Joseph. "Our process includes soaking marigold petals in spring water, fermenting them to break down cell walls, and then gently evaporating the liquid to leave behind a nutrient-dense paste." This paste is then dried into a powder, which is sold to small-batch cosmetic brands making everything from anti-aging serums to natural highlighters. HOB's extracts are certified vegan by the Vegan Society and cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny, making them a hit with eco-conscious beauty brands in Europe and Australia. They also offer private labeling, helping startups build their own product lines without the hassle of in-house manufacturing.
8. National Lutein Manufacturers Association (NLMA)
Okay, technically the NLMA isn't a single supplier—but it's too important to leave off this list. Founded in 2018, this trade association represents over 30 small and medium-sized lutein manufacturers across Haiti, acting as a collective voice and a one-stop shop for buyers. The NLMA's goal? To promote Haitian lutein on the global stage and help small manufacturers compete with larger international players. How do they do it? By pooling resources: members share extraction equipment, negotiate bulk discounts on raw materials, and collaborate on export logistics. For buyers, this means access to a wide range of lutein products—from crude extracts to finished supplements—all under one roof. The NLMA also offers quality assurance, requiring members to meet strict standards for purity and safety. "We want the world to know that Haitian lutein is as good as, if not better than, any other in the market," says NLMA president Antoine Louis. "By working together, we're proving that."
9. EcoLutein Haiti
For brands focused on zero-waste production, EcoLutein Haiti is a game-changer. This innovative manufacturer, based in Hinche, has developed a closed-loop system where every part of the marigold plant is used—from the petals (for lutein) to the stems and leaves (for animal feed) to the water used in extraction (recycled for irrigation). "We hate waste," says founder Dr. Renée Duval, a former environmental scientist. "Marigold plants have so much to offer beyond just lutein, and we're determined to use every bit." EcoLutein's extraction process is also energy-efficient, relying on solar panels to power their facility and rainwater harvesting to reduce water usage. The result? A carbon-neutral lutein extract that's become a favorite among sustainability-focused brands, including a major European retailer's private-label supplement line. EcoLutein offers both powder and liquid extracts, with a focus on high-purity options (95%+) for the pharmaceutical industry.
10. Haiti Lutein Exports (HLE)
Rounding out our list is Haiti Lutein Exports (HLE), a trader with a global reach. Founded in 2008, HLE specializes in exporting Haitian lutein to markets in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, where demand for natural ingredients is growing rapidly. What makes them stand out? Their deep understanding of international regulations. "Every country has its own rules—whether it's China's CFDA requirements or the EU's REACH standards," says export manager Fatima Ahmed. "We handle all the paperwork, testing, and certifications, so our clients don't have to." HLE works with a network of local manufacturers to source lutein in various forms, including powder, oil, and beadlets (small spheres used in supplements). They also offer market insights, helping clients tailor their products to local tastes—for example, recommending higher lutein concentrations for Middle Eastern markets, where eye health supplements are particularly popular. With offices in Dubai and Singapore, HLE is bridging the gap between Haiti's growing lutein industry and the global south.
| Rank | Company Name | Key Products | Certifications | USP (Unique Selling Point) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Haiti Natural Extracts Co. (HNECO) | Lutein esters (5-98% purity), lutein-zeaxanthin blends | GMP, ISO 9001 | Vertically integrated; partners with 200+ local farmers |
| 2 | Caribbean Nutraceuticals Ltd. | Bulk lutein powder, custom formulations | ISO 22000 (food safety) | 48-hour local delivery, flexible payment terms |
| 3 | Green Leaf Botanicals | Organic lutein extract (92% purity), kale-derived lutein | USDA Organic, EU Organic | Solvent-free cold-press extraction |
| 4 | Haitian Lutein Traders (HLT) | Crude lutein extract, marigold raw material | Fair Trade Certified | Blockchain traceability from farm to buyer |
| 5 | Tropical Extracts Haiti | Supercritical CO2 lutein extract (99% purity), lutein-zeaxanthin blends | FDA Registered | Solvent-free, high-stability extracts |
| 6 | Port-au-Prince Bulk Extracts | Bulk lutein powder (1-ton+ orders) | GMP | Fast logistics via Port-au-Prince seaport |
| 7 | Haitian Organic Botanicals (HOB) | Vegan lutein paste, cruelty-free extracts | Vegan Society, Leaping Bunny | Slow extraction for nutrient-dense extracts |
| 8 | National Lutein Manufacturers Association (NLMA) | Variety of lutein products (via member manufacturers) | Collective quality standards | One-stop shop for small to medium buyers |
| 9 | EcoLutein Haiti | Carbon-neutral lutein powder/oil (95%+ purity) | Carbon Neutral Certified | Zero-waste, solar-powered production |
| 10 | Haiti Lutein Exports (HLE) | Lutein powder, oil, beadlets | CFDA, REACH compliant | Global export expertise; handles international regulations |
Choosing the right lutein supplier in Haiti ultimately comes down to your needs. Are you a small cosmetic brand looking for organic, small-batch extracts? Green Leaf Botanicals or Haitian Organic Botanicals might be your best bet. Need bulk quantities for a food manufacturing plant? Caribbean Nutraceuticals or Port-au-Prince Bulk Extracts can deliver. For international export, Haiti Lutein Exports has the expertise to navigate global regulations. No matter which supplier you choose, one thing is clear: Haiti's lutein industry is on the rise, driven by a commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation. By supporting these local suppliers, you're not just getting a great product—you're contributing to a growing industry that's creating jobs, supporting farmers, and putting Haiti on the map as a source of high-quality natural ingredients. Here's to the future of Haitian lutein.
