Astaxanthin is a xanthophyll carotenoid found in various microorganisms and marine animals, known for its potent antioxidant and biological activities. It is primarily sourced from Haematococcus pluvialis, algae, yeast, and seafood. Astaxanthin is used as a food colorant in animal and fish feed, and as a nutritional supplement, antioxidant, and anticancer agent. It has been shown to prevent diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and stimulate immunization. Astaxanthin is available in various commercial forms, including tablets, capsules, syrups, oils, soft gels, creams, biomass, and granulated powders. It is also used in food, feed, and nutraceutical applications. Astaxanthin has high stability and bioavailability, with enhanced absorption when consumed with dietary oils. It exhibits strong antioxidant properties, which help protect cells, lipids, and membrane lipoproteins against oxidative damage. Astaxanthin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, cardiovascular disease prevention, and anticancer activities. It also modulates immune function and has potential applications in treating ocular and skin inflammation. Astaxanthin is considered safe with no significant side effects when consumed with food. The recommended daily dose is 2–4 mg, with some studies showing no adverse effects at 6 mg/day. Astaxanthin is used in various commercial applications, including food, feed, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceuticals. Its potential biological activities and health benefits make it a promising compound for future research and clinical applications.Astaxanthin is a xanthophyll carotenoid found in various microorganisms and marine animals, known for its potent antioxidant and biological activities. It is primarily sourced from Haematococcus pluvialis, algae, yeast, and seafood. Astaxanthin is used as a food colorant in animal and fish feed, and as a nutritional supplement, antioxidant, and anticancer agent. It has been shown to prevent diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and stimulate immunization. Astaxanthin is available in various commercial forms, including tablets, capsules, syrups, oils, soft gels, creams, biomass, and granulated powders. It is also used in food, feed, and nutraceutical applications. Astaxanthin has high stability and bioavailability, with enhanced absorption when consumed with dietary oils. It exhibits strong antioxidant properties, which help protect cells, lipids, and membrane lipoproteins against oxidative damage. Astaxanthin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, cardiovascular disease prevention, and anticancer activities. It also modulates immune function and has potential applications in treating ocular and skin inflammation. Astaxanthin is considered safe with no significant side effects when consumed with food. The recommended daily dose is 2–4 mg, with some studies showing no adverse effects at 6 mg/day. Astaxanthin is used in various commercial applications, including food, feed, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceuticals. Its potential biological activities and health benefits make it a promising compound for future research and clinical applications.