Carotenoid Content and Bioaccessibility in Commercial Maize Hybrids

The objective of the present study was to determine the content and bioaccessibility of carotenoids in 104 maize hybrids available at the market. Lutein, zeaxanthin, α- and β-cryptoxanthin, and β-carotene were determined in whole grains and micelles produced during standardized INFOGEST digestibility analysis, and their bioaccessibility was calculated as the ratio of micellar and grain carotenoids. Tested hybrids varied in total carotenoid content, with 34% having total carotenoid content in the range of 15–20 µg/g dry matter (DM) and 41% in the range of 20–25 µg/g DM. The amount of bioaccessible carotenoids increased linearly (p zeaxanthin (43%) > β-carotene (43%) > α-cryptoxanthin (27%) > β-cryptoxanthin (26%). Bioaccessibility of lutein, zeaxanthin, and β-carotene decreased with increasing content in the grain (p < 0.05). On average, only 43% of the total carotenoids were bioaccessible in commercial maize hybrids tested, which should be considered when formulating an animal diet.