Leading the world in development and production of scientifically advanced marigold
Marigold is a member of the Asteraceae or Compositae family which includes more than 30,000 different species. Marigold flowers naturally produce carotenoids, specifically lutein and zeaxanthin, which have pigmentation and antioxidant benefits.
Understanding the value of these molecules for egg yolk and broiler pigmentation, human vision and skin health, Kemin set out in 1995 to harness the flower's ability to produce these molecules.
Today, we are pioneering the advancement of elite marigold hybrids. Our plant scientists use conventional breeding methods to develop inbred parent lines, crossed in hybrid combination for total uniformity. The resulting seed produces identical hybrid marigold plants that are uniform, consistent and high producer of either lutein or zeaxanthin.
Our scientist continually breed new lines of marigolds as a process of continuous crop improvement.
Kemin partners with farmers in India to grow and harvest more than 15,000 acres of hybrid marigolds each year. Marigolds are hand planted, weeded and harvested six or seven times per season.
Once harvested, flowers undergo an extraction process to produce lutein or zeaxanthin-rich oleoresin extract, depending on the hybrid grown. Kemin uses a proprietary oleoresin crystallization process to produce lutein or zeaxanthin at our worldwide headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa, U.S.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are then formulated into specific ingredients to be sold into the animal feed, dietary supplement, functional food, functional beverage and skin care markets worldwide.
Through strategic partnership with growing partners, Kemin ensures good agricultural practices and socially responsible crop production methods. Kemin uses rigorous safety and quality testing to ensure consistency and provide customers the same efficacy every time they purchase Kemin products.
