Top 10 Lutein Suppliers, Manufacturers, Wholesalers, and Traders in Uruguay

Founded in 2005, Uruguayan Marigold Extracts S.A. (UME) is a pioneer in the local lutein scene. Based in Montevideo, this family-owned manufacturer has built its reputation on quality and consistency. Specializing in marigold-derived lutein and zeaxanthin extracts, UME prides itself on vertical integration: they grow their own marigold crops on 500+ hectares of farmland, ensuring full control over the supply chain from seed to extract.

What sets UME apart? Their focus on lutein and zeaxanthin blends, which are highly sought after in the supplement industry for their synergistic benefits. They offer both oil-based and powder forms, with lutein concentrations ranging from 5% to 80%, catering to everything from budget-friendly supplements to high-potency formulas. UME is also certified organic by the Uruguayan Organic Agriculture Institute (INOA) and holds GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) certification, making them a top pick for brands prioritizing clean, traceable ingredients.

Whether you're a startup needing small samples or a large-scale manufacturer ordering bulk botanical extracts, UME is flexible—they offer minimum order quantities (MOQs) as low as 1kg for trial orders and can scale up to metric tons for long-term partnerships. Their customer service team, fluent in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, adds an extra layer of convenience for international buyers.

South American Nutraceuticals Ltd. (SANL) is a powerhouse when it comes to bulk lutein supply. Located in Salto, a city in northwestern Uruguay known for its agricultural production, SANL has been a key player in the region since 2010. Unlike some suppliers that focus solely on manufacturing, SANL wears multiple hats: they're a manufacturer, wholesaler, and trader, meaning they can source lutein from local farms (including their own 300-hectare marigold fields) and also import complementary ingredients to create custom blends for clients.

One of SANL's biggest strengths is their commitment to affordability without compromising quality. They specialize in high-volume orders, making them ideal for businesses that need bulk botanical extracts at competitive prices. Their product line includes standard lutein powder (10-20% concentration), water-dispersible lutein (great for beverages and fortified foods), and even lutein microencapsulated beads for controlled-release supplements. For clients prioritizing eye health, they also offer pre-mixed formulas with zeaxanthin, vitamin E, and zinc—common additives in best lutein supplement formulations.

SANL is ISO 9001 certified and regularly undergoes third-party testing for heavy metals and pesticides, ensuring their products meet EU and FDA standards. Their logistics team is also worth noting: they have partnerships with major shipping lines, allowing them to deliver to Europe, North America, and Asia with lead times as short as two weeks for urgent orders.

For businesses that value agility and customization, Montevideo Botanical Traders (MBT) is a standout choice. Founded in 2015 by a team of botanists and business experts, MBT operates as a trader and wholesaler, partnering with small-scale local farmers and manufacturers to curate a diverse range of botanical extracts—with lutein being their most requested product. Based in Montevideo's bustling port district, they excel at connecting international buyers with Uruguay's best-kept secrets in the botanical world.

MBT's lutein offerings are all about flexibility. They work with several local marigold farms that use traditional, low-chemical farming methods, resulting in lutein extracts that are often organic or pesticide-free. Clients can choose from raw lutein crystals (90%+ purity), oil suspensions, or even liquid extracts for use in cosmetics and skincare products. What really makes MBT unique, though, is their willingness to create custom orders. Need lutein blended with other carotenoids like beta-carotene? Or a specific particle size for better absorption in supplements? MBT will source, test, and blend ingredients to meet your exact specifications.

While MBT doesn't manufacture in-house, they have strict quality control protocols: every batch of lutein is tested in their in-house lab for potency, heavy metals, and microbial contamination before being shipped. They also offer small MOQs (starting at 500g), making them a great fit for startups or businesses looking to test new products without committing to large orders. For those new to the world of lutein, their team is happy to share expertise on lutein for eyesight applications, helping clients choose the right formulation for their target market.

Uruguay Lutein & Zeaxanthin Co. (ULZC) is a specialist in—you guessed it—lutein and its close cousin, zeaxanthin. Based in Canelones, a region south of Montevideo famous for its flower cultivation, ULZC has been perfecting their extraction process since 2008. Their focus on these two carotenoids has made them a go-to for businesses creating supplements specifically targeted at eye health, as lutein and zeaxanthin work together to support macular pigment density, a key marker of eye health.

ULZC's manufacturing facility is state-of-the-art, using supercritical CO2 extraction—a method that preserves the integrity of the carotenoids without using harsh solvents. This results in lutein extracts that are not only potent (concentrations up to 85%) but also free from residual chemicals, a major selling point for clean-label brands. They also offer organic-certified lutein, sourced from marigold farms that follow EU organic standards, making them a favorite among European buyers.

Beyond their product quality, ULZC is known for their transparency. They provide detailed certificates of analysis (COAs) for every batch, including information on sourcing (farm location, harvest date) and extraction methods. For large-scale buyers, they offer contract manufacturing services, where they can produce finished supplements (like softgels or tablets) using their lutein extracts, saving clients time and resources. With a focus on long-term partnerships, ULZC often works with clients to develop new products, leveraging their R&D team to test innovative applications for lutein, from eye drops to functional chocolates.

Rio de la Plata Extracts (RDLE) takes its name from the iconic river that borders Uruguay and Argentina, a nod to the company's commitment to regional collaboration. Founded in 2012 in Colonia, a historic city with a thriving agricultural sector, RDLE is a manufacturer and wholesaler that prides itself on sustainable practices. Their marigold farms use drip irrigation to conserve water, and their extraction facility runs on solar power—making them a top choice for eco-conscious brands.

RDLE's lutein products are designed with versatility in mind. They offer standard lutein powder (10-50% concentration) for supplements, as well as oil-soluble lutein for use in cosmetics (think anti-aging serums and eye creams, where lutein's antioxidant properties help protect skin from UV damage). For food and beverage clients, they have water-dispersible lutein, which can be added to everything from smoothies to energy bars without affecting taste or texture. RDLE also produces lutein-enriched animal feed, a niche but growing market for poultry and aquaculture, where lutein enhances egg yolk and fish flesh color.

What really sets RDLE apart is their focus on education. They regularly host workshops for clients on topics like "The Science of Lutein for Eyesight" and "Sustainable Sourcing in Botanical Extracts," helping businesses not only source ingredients but also market their products more effectively. They're also certified by the Rainforest Alliance, ensuring that their farming practices support biodiversity and fair labor standards. For businesses looking to align their brand with sustainability, RDLE is a partner that walks the walk.

The Uruguayan Botanical Tradersｕｎｉｏｎ(UBTU) is a cooperative with a difference. Founded in 2007, it's a collective of 15 small to medium-sized lutein manufacturers and farmers spread across Uruguay, working together to compete in the global market. By pooling resources, UBTU members can access better equipment, negotiate bulk shipping rates, and share expertise—all while maintaining the artisanal quality that small-scale producers are known for. Headquartered in Montevideo, UBTU acts as a single point of contact for buyers, simplifying the process of sourcing from multiple local suppliers.

UBTU's lutein offerings are diverse, reflecting the strengths of its members. Some farms specialize in organic marigold, producing lutein extracts with INOA organic certification; others focus on high-potency lutein (up to 90% purity) using advanced extraction techniques. Buyers can choose to source from a single member or mix and match products from different farms to create a custom portfolio. For example, a client might order organic lutein powder from a farm in Paysandú and water-dispersible lutein from a manufacturer in Tacuarembó, all coordinated through UBTU.

UBTU is particularly popular with buyers who value supporting local communities. By purchasing through the union, you're directly supporting small farmers and their families, many of whom have been growing marigold for generations. Theｕｎｉｏｎalso prioritizes fair trade practices, ensuring that farmers receive a fair price for their crops. For businesses with a "buy local" or "support small" brand ethos, UBTU is an excellent choice. They offer MOQs as low as 1kg, and their team can help navigate the complexities of importing from multiple suppliers, handling logistics, customs, and documentation on your behalf.

LuteinPlus Manufacturing S.A. is all about innovation. Founded in 2015 in Maldonado, a coastal city in southeastern Uruguay, LuteinPlus has quickly made a name for itself by developing cutting-edge lutein formulations. Their team of food scientists and biochemists are constantly experimenting with new ways to improve lutein's stability, bioavailability, and versatility—making them a favorite among brands looking to launch next-generation products.

One of LuteinPlus's most popular innovations is their microencapsulated lutein. By coating lutein particles in a plant-based shell, they've created a form of lutein that's more stable in heat and light (perfect for baked goods or supplements stored in warm climates) and easier for the body to absorb. They also offer lutein in nanosuspension form, which can be added to clear beverages like water or energy drinks without clouding—a game-changer for the functional beverage industry. For skincare brands, their liposomal lutein is designed to penetrate the skin more deeply, enhancing its antioxidant and anti-aging effects.

LuteinPlus isn't just about fancy formulations, though—they also excel at the basics. Their standard lutein powder (10-50% concentration) is consistently high-quality, with tight potency specifications and low levels of impurities. They're certified GMP and ISO 22000 (food safety management), and their facility is audited annually by organizations like SGS. For clients with unique needs, their R&D team offers custom formulation services, working with you to develop a lutein product tailored to your specific application. Whether you're creating a best lutein supplement or a lutein-infused sports drink, LuteinPlus has the expertise to bring your vision to life.

Atlantic Coast Extracts (ACE) is a wholesaler and trader with a global reach. Based in Punta del Este, a coastal city known for its international business community, ACE has built a network of partners across Uruguay, Argentina, and Brazil, allowing them to source not just lutein but a wide range of botanical extracts for clients worldwide. Since 2013, they've focused on making Uruguayan lutein accessible to buyers in Europe, Asia, and North America, leveraging their multilingual team (fluent in English, Spanish, French, and Mandarin) to bridge cultural and logistical gaps.

ACE's lutein portfolio includes both local and imported options, giving clients flexibility. Their Uruguayan-sourced lutein comes from partner farms in the interior, with a focus on organic and sustainably grown marigold. They also import high-potency lutein from Brazil and China for clients who need specific concentrations or formulations that aren't available locally. This hybrid model makes ACE a one-stop shop for businesses that need a mix of local and international ingredients.

What makes ACE stand out is their focus on customer experience. They offer door-to-door delivery, handling everything from sourcing and testing to shipping and customs clearance. Their online portal allows clients to track orders in real time, view COAs, and even request samples with just a few clicks. For new clients, they provide a free "Lutein Sourcing Guide," which includes market trends, regulatory requirements, and tips for choosing the right formulation—an invaluable resource for businesses new to the industry. ACE also offers competitive pricing on bulk orders, with discounts for clients who commit to quarterly or annual contracts.

Bioactive Ingredients Uruguay (BIU) is a manufacturer with a scientific edge. Founded in 2011 by a team of biochemists from the University of the Republic, BIU is dedicated to producing high-purity lutein extracts for the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. Located in Montevideo's scientific park, their facility is equipped with lab-grade extraction equipment and a dedicated R&D department that collaborates with university researchers to develop new applications for lutein.

BIU's claim to fame is their pharmaceutical-grade lutein, which meets the strict standards of the FDA and EMA. Their lutein is produced using a proprietary extraction method that results in ultra-pure crystals (95%+ purity), free from solvents, heavy metals, and microbial contaminants. This makes it ideal for use in prescription eye supplements, medical foods, and even ophthalmic drugs. They also offer nutraceutical-grade lutein (10-80% concentration) for over-the-counter supplements, with options for oil-based, powder, and water-dispersible formulations.

BIU is certified GMP, ISO 13485 (medical devices), and Kosher, ensuring compliance with global regulatory bodies. They also participate in clinical trials, partnering with universities to study lutein's effects on eye health, skin aging, and cognitive function—providing clients with scientific backing for their products. For businesses in the pharmaceutical or high-end nutraceutical space, BIU is a supplier that understands the importance of precision and compliance.

Rounding out our list is Uruguayan Bulk Extracts Ltd. (UBE), a no-nonsense wholesaler that specializes in high-volume lutein supply. Founded in 2009 in Fray Bentos, a city in western Uruguay with a strong industrial heritage, UBE has built its business on efficiency, reliability, and competitive pricing. They work directly with large marigold farms in the region, purchasing crops in bulk and processing them in their own extraction facility to keep costs low—passing the savings on to clients.

UBE's focus is on bulk botanical extracts , with lutein being their top-selling product. They offer standard lutein powder (10-30% concentration) in 25kg drums, as well as oil-based lutein in 50L drums for large-scale manufacturers. Their minimum order quantity is 100kg, making them ideal for businesses with high-volume needs, such as multinational supplement brands or food and beverage companies looking to fortify products like cereals or yogurt on a mass scale.

While UBE doesn't offer the custom formulations or small MOQs of some other suppliers, they make up for it with consistency and speed. They maintain large inventory levels, ensuring that most orders can be shipped within 3-5 business days. Their quality control process is streamlined but rigorous, with each batch tested for potency and contaminants before shipment. For businesses that need reliable, affordable lutein in large quantities, UBE is a workhorse partner that delivers.