Beta Carotene is an organic compound and classified as a terpenoid. It is a precursor (inactive form) of vitamin A.

Beta Carotene is a strongly colored red-orange pigment abundant in plants and fruits.β-Carotene is biosynthesized from geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate. It is a member of the carotenes, which are tetraterpenes, synthesized biochemically from eight isoprene units and thus having 40 carbons. Among this general class of carotenes, β-carotene is distinguished by having beta-rings at both ends of the molecule. Absorption of β-carotene is enhanced if eaten with fats, as carotenes are fat soluble.