Lycopene

• Prostate health
• Cardiovascular support
• Antioxidant protection
• Skin health

• Anti-inflammatory effects
• Bone health
• Neuroprotection
• Eye health
• Metabolic support
• Cancer risk reduction

Lycopene exerts its diverse biological effects through several complementary mechanisms, with its potent antioxidant activity being the most well-established. As the most efficient singlet oxygen quencher among common carotenoids, lycopene demonstrates antioxidant capacity approximately twice that of beta-carotene and ten times that of alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E). This exceptional antioxidant activity stems from lycopene’s unique molecular structure, featuring an extended system of 11 conjugated double bonds, which allows it to effectively neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) and other free radicals. By scavenging these harmful molecules, lycopene helps prevent oxidative damage to cellular components including lipids, proteins, and DNA.

This protection is particularly important in tissues with high metabolic activity and oxygen consumption, such as the prostate, testes, adrenal glands, and liver, where lycopene tends to accumulate in higher concentrations. Beyond direct antioxidant effects, lycopene enhances the body’s endogenous antioxidant systems by activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway. This transcription factor regulates the expression of numerous antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and phase II detoxification enzymes. By upregulating these protective systems, lycopene provides more comprehensive and sustained protection against oxidative stress than direct scavenging alone.

Lycopene also demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory properties through multiple pathways. It inhibits the activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), a key transcription factor in inflammatory responses, thereby reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Additionally, lycopene modulates the activity of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and 5-lipoxygenase, further reducing inflammatory mediator production. These anti-inflammatory effects have been observed in various tissues, including the prostate, cardiovascular system, and skin.

In the cardiovascular system, lycopene helps maintain endothelial function through several mechanisms. It enhances nitric oxide bioavailability, promoting vasodilation and healthy blood flow. Lycopene also reduces the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, a critical step in atherosclerosis development. Furthermore, it inhibits smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration, processes involved in arterial plaque formation.

These combined effects help maintain arterial elasticity and overall cardiovascular health. For prostate health, lycopene’s mechanisms extend beyond antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Research indicates that lycopene can modulate androgen metabolism and signaling, potentially influencing prostate growth and function. It appears to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to the more potent dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which plays a role in prostate enlargement.

Lycopene also demonstrates antiproliferative effects on prostate cells, regulating cell cycle progression and promoting appropriate apoptosis (programmed cell death) in damaged or abnormal cells. In skin tissues, lycopene accumulates in the epidermis and dermis, where it provides photoprotection through both its antioxidant activities and ability to absorb UV radiation. It helps protect skin cells from UV-induced damage, reduces oxidative stress, and modulates inflammatory responses to sun exposure. Lycopene also appears to support collagen production and inhibit matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that break down collagen and elastin, potentially helping maintain skin elasticity and structure.

At the cellular level, lycopene influences various signaling pathways beyond those already mentioned. It modulates the expression of genes involved in cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, and cellular differentiation. Lycopene affects the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system, which plays roles in cell growth, proliferation, and apoptosis. It also appears to inhibit certain protein kinases involved in cell proliferation and survival pathways.

In the metabolic realm, lycopene demonstrates beneficial effects on glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. It appears to enhance glucose uptake in peripheral tissues, reduce oxidative stress in pancreatic beta cells, and modulate adipokine production in adipose tissue. These effects may contribute to improved metabolic health and reduced risk of metabolic syndrome. Lycopene also shows emerging evidence for neuroprotective effects through multiple mechanisms.

It crosses the blood-brain barrier and protects neuronal cells from oxidative damage and inflammation. Some research suggests it may influence neurotransmitter systems and support mitochondrial function in neural tissues. Through these diverse and complementary mechanisms—potent antioxidant activity, enhancement of endogenous antioxidant systems, anti-inflammatory effects, modulation of cell signaling pathways, and tissue-specific actions—lycopene influences numerous physiological processes, explaining its wide range of observed health benefits across multiple body systems.

No official Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) has been established for lycopene, as it is not considered an essential nutrient. However, based on epidemiological studies and clinical trials, a daily intake of 6-15 mg appears beneficial for general health maintenance in healthy adults. For therapeutic purposes or specific health conditions, higher doses ranging from 15-30 mg daily have been used in clinical studies with good safety profiles. The optimal dose may vary depending on the specific health goal, individual factors such as age and baseline nutritional status, and the form of supplementation.

For lycopene from dietary sources, the average American diet provides approximately 2-5 mg per day, primarily from tomato products. Increasing consumption of lycopene-rich foods (tomatoes, watermelon, pink grapefruit) can help bridge this gap, though supplementation may be necessary to reach therapeutic levels. The bioavailability of lycopene varies significantly between different food sources and supplement formulations. Processed tomato products (sauce, paste, juice) typically provide better absorption than raw tomatoes due to the heat-induced breakdown of cell walls and conversion of some all-trans lycopene to more bioavailable cis isomers.

Similarly, oil-based or emulsified supplements typically provide better absorption than powder-based forms. Taking lycopene supplements with a meal containing some fat enhances absorption, as lycopene is a fat-soluble compound.

Lycopene demonstrates variable bioavailability, with absorption rates typically ranging from 10-30% depending on numerous factors including food matrix, processing, dietary context, and individual physiological differences. As a highly lipophilic carotenoid, lycopene requires dietary fat for optimal absorption. The absorption process begins in the stomach and small intestine, where lycopene is released from the food matrix and incorporated into mixed micelles formed by bile salts and dietary lipids. These micelles facilitate lycopene’s transport across the intestinal mucosa, where it is taken up by enterocytes.

Within enterocytes, lycopene is incorporated into chylomicrons and released into the lymphatic system, eventually entering the bloodstream. In circulation, lycopene is transported primarily by low-density lipoproteins (LDL, approximately 75%) and to a lesser extent by high-density lipoproteins (HDL, approximately 10-15%) and very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL, approximately 10-15%). This distribution pattern may influence lycopene’s tissue delivery patterns and explain its preferential accumulation in certain tissues. A critical factor affecting lycopene bioavailability is its isomeric form.

In raw tomatoes and many supplements, lycopene exists predominantly in the all-trans configuration (approximately 95%). However, the cis isomers of lycopene demonstrate greater bioavailability due to their slightly higher solubility in bile acid micelles, shorter length, and potentially reduced tendency to aggregate. Heat processing of tomatoes (cooking, pasteurization) induces isomerization of some all-trans lycopene to various cis isomers, which partly explains why processed tomato products typically show higher lycopene bioavailability than raw tomatoes. The food matrix significantly impacts lycopene bioavailability.

In raw tomatoes, lycopene is enclosed within chromoplasts, and the cell walls limit its release. Mechanical disruption (chopping, pureeing) and especially heat processing break down these cellular structures, releasing lycopene and enhancing its bioavailability. This explains why tomato sauce, paste, and juice typically provide more bioavailable lycopene than raw tomatoes, with increases in bioavailability of 2-3 fold commonly observed. Individual factors affecting lycopene absorption include age (absorption typically decreases with age), genetic variations in carotenoid metabolism, gut health, and nutritional status.

Conditions that impair fat absorption, such as certain gastrointestinal disorders or cholesterol-lowering medications, can significantly reduce lycopene bioavailability. Once absorbed, lycopene demonstrates selective accumulation in specific tissues, with the highest concentrations found in the adrenal glands, testes, liver, and prostate. This tissue-specific deposition suggests active transport mechanisms rather than simple passive diffusion based on lipophilicity. Lycopene also accumulates in the skin, particularly in areas with higher sebaceous gland activity.

Consuming with a meal containing healthy fats (olive oil, avocado, nuts) significantly enhances absorption, Heat processing of tomato products (sauce, paste, juice) increases bioavailability 2-3 fold compared to raw tomatoes, Oil-based or emulsified supplement formulations improve bioavailability compared to powder forms, Micronized lycopene (reduced particle size) demonstrates enhanced absorption, Formulations enriched in cis-isomers show improved bioavailability compared to all-trans lycopene, Combining with small amounts of beta-carotene may enhance lycopene absorption through complementary micellar incorporation, Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oil) may enhance absorption compared to long-chain triglycerides, Formulations with added phospholipids (lecithin) can enhance micelle formation and absorption, Avoiding consumption with fiber supplements, which can bind to lycopene and reduce absorption, Maintaining healthy gut function and microbiome, as intestinal inflammation or dysbiosis may impair absorption

For optimal absorption of lycopene supplements, timing relative to meals is more important than time of day. Taking lycopene with a meal containing some fat significantly enhances absorption, as the presence of dietary fat stimulates bile release and promotes the formation of mixed micelles necessary for lycopene uptake. A meal containing at least 3-5 grams of fat is generally sufficient to enhance lycopene absorption. Morning or midday administration may be slightly preferable to evening dosing, as some research suggests that carotenoid absorption might be marginally better earlier in the day, though this effect is relatively minor compared to the impact of taking lycopene with fat-containing meals.

For those taking multiple supplements, lycopene can generally be taken alongside most other supplements without significant interaction concerns. However, extremely high doses of certain other carotenoids may potentially compete with lycopene for absorption when taken simultaneously. For this reason, some experts suggest separating high-dose beta-carotene or lutein from lycopene by a few hours if all are being supplemented at high levels. When using lycopene specifically for skin photoprotection, some research suggests that consistent daily supplementation for at least 10-12 weeks is necessary before significant protective effects are observed.

The timing of supplementation relative to sun exposure is less important than maintaining consistent tissue levels through regular intake. For prostate health applications, consistency in daily supplementation is more important than specific timing, as lycopene’s effects appear to be based on long-term accumulation in prostate tissue rather than acute effects. Studies showing benefits for prostate health typically involve daily supplementation for 3-6 months or longer. For cardiovascular benefits, some research suggests that the antioxidant effects of lycopene on LDL oxidation and endothelial function may be more pronounced when taken with the largest meal of the day, which typically contains more fat and potentially more oxidative challenges.

For individuals taking medications that may interfere with fat absorption (such as certain cholesterol-lowering drugs or fat blockers), separating lycopene supplementation from these medications by at least 2 hours may help maintain optimal absorption. For those with digestive disorders affecting fat absorption (such as pancreatic insufficiency or gallbladder disease), taking lycopene with a digestive enzyme supplement containing lipase may help improve absorption. Overall, consistency in daily supplementation is generally more important than specific timing for lycopene’s benefits, particularly for conditions like prostate health and skin photoprotection, which rely on tissue accumulation over time rather than acute effects.

• Generally recognized as very safe with minimal reported side effects at recommended doses
• Lycopenodermia (harmless orange-red discoloration of the skin) with very high doses (typically >30 mg daily for extended periods)
• Mild digestive discomfort (rare)
• Diarrhea (rare, typically with very high doses)
• Nausea (very rare)
• Bloating or gas (uncommon)
• Mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals (extremely rare)
• Note: Most clinical trials report side effect profiles similar to placebo

• Known hypersensitivity to lycopene or tomatoes
• Caution advised in patients with lycopene-sensitive conditions such as lycopenemia (rare genetic condition)
• Theoretical caution in patients with history of prostate cancer (based on mixed research findings, though most evidence suggests benefit rather than harm)
• Note: These contraindications are primarily precautionary, as lycopene has demonstrated an excellent safety profile across diverse populations

• No significant drug interactions have been definitively established in human studies
• Theoretical interaction with cholesterol-lowering medications (may reduce lycopene absorption)
• Potential interaction with mineral oil and olestra (may reduce lycopene absorption)
• Possible interaction with antiplatelet medications (theoretical concern based on limited in vitro data suggesting mild antiplatelet effects)
• Note: Despite theoretical concerns, clinical significance of these potential interactions appears minimal

No official Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) has been established for lycopene. Based on available research, doses up to 30 mg per day appear to be safe for long-term use, with some studies using doses up to 75 mg daily for shorter periods without significant adverse effects. The most commonly reported side effect with high doses is lycopenodermia, a harmless orange-red discoloration of the skin that resolves when intake is reduced. This typically occurs only with prolonged intake of doses exceeding 30-50 mg daily.

Multiple safety studies have evaluated lycopene supplementation, including a 12-week trial using 75 mg daily that found no significant adverse effects compared to placebo. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has concluded that lycopene supplementation up to 25 mg daily is safe for adults. For most healthy adults, lycopene supplementation within the typical range of 6-30 mg daily is unlikely to cause any adverse effects, even with long-term use. This safety profile is supported by lycopene’s status as a natural component of the human diet, with some traditional Mediterranean diets providing up to 15-20 mg daily from food sources alone.

As with any supplement, it’s prudent to use the lowest effective dose for the intended purpose, particularly for long-term use. Those with specific health conditions, on medications, or with known sensitivities should consult healthcare providers before using lycopene supplements, though adverse interactions are rare. It’s worth noting that lycopene appears to be safe during pregnancy and lactation, with some research suggesting potential benefits. However, as with most supplements during pregnancy, moderation and healthcare provider consultation are recommended.

For children, lower doses proportional to body weight are appropriate, though most research has focused on adult populations.

In the United States, lycopene is regulated as a dietary supplement under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. Under this classification, lycopene can be sold without prescription and without requiring FDA approval for safety and efficacy before marketing, unlike pharmaceutical drugs. As a dietary supplement ingredient, manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products are safe before marketing, though they are not required to provide evidence of safety to the FDA. The FDA can take action against unsafe lycopene products after they reach the market.

Lycopene has achieved Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status for certain food applications. Both synthetic lycopene and tomato-derived lycopene have received GRAS designations for use in various food categories at specified levels. This GRAS status allows lycopene to be added to conventional foods beyond dietary supplements. In 2005, the FDA evaluated a qualified health claim petition for tomatoes, lycopene, and cancer risk.

The FDA concluded that there was ‘very limited evidence’ to support a qualified health claim for tomatoes and/or tomato sauce and reduced risk of prostate, ovarian, gastric, and pancreatic cancers. However, the FDA found ‘no credible evidence’ to support a qualified health claim for lycopene, as a food ingredient, component of food, or supplement, and reduced risk of any cancer. As a result, while general structure/function claims are permitted (such as ‘supports prostate health’ or ‘provides antioxidant protection’), specific disease prevention claims are not allowed for lycopene supplements. Manufacturers are prohibited from making specific disease claims (such as claiming lycopene prevents cancer or heart disease) but can make structure/function claims.

All lycopene supplements must include a disclaimer stating that the product has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The FDA does not regulate the quality or purity of lycopene supplements, which has led to variability in product content. Independent testing has found significant discrepancies between labeled and actual lycopene content in some supplements. The FDA has not established a recommended daily intake for lycopene, as it is not considered an essential nutrient.

Eu: In the European Union, lycopene is regulated under the Food Supplements Directive (2002/46/EC) and can be used in food supplements. Lycopene is also approved as a food additive (E160d) for use in various food categories at specified levels. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has conducted multiple safety assessments of lycopene from different sources, establishing an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 0.5 mg/kg body weight per day for synthetic lycopene. EFSA has evaluated several health claims for lycopene. In 2011, EFSA’s Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA) assessed claims related to lycopene and protection of DNA, proteins and lipids from oxidative damage, as well as claims related to cardiovascular health. The panel concluded that a cause and effect relationship had not been established between lycopene consumption and the claimed effects, based on the evidence available at that time. This assessment means that specific health claims for lycopene are not authorized in the EU, though general references to antioxidant properties may be permitted in some contexts.

Canada: In Canada, lycopene is listed in the Natural Health Products Ingredients Database (NHPID) as a medicinal ingredient for use in natural health products. Health Canada has approved specific health claims for lycopene related to antioxidant activity and general health maintenance. Products containing lycopene must have a Natural Product Number (NPN) issued by Health Canada, indicating they have been assessed for safety, efficacy, and quality. Dosage recommendations and specific indications are more standardized than in the U.S. market. In 2016, Health Canada conducted a review of the evidence for lycopene and prostate cancer risk reduction, concluding that there was some evidence to support a relationship, but it was not sufficient to authorize a specific health claim at that time.

Australia: In Australia, lycopene is listed by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) as an acceptable ingredient for use in listed complementary medicines. Products containing lycopene can make certain low-level claims related to antioxidant activity and general health maintenance, provided they comply with the evidence requirements of the TGA. As with other jurisdictions, disease prevention or treatment claims are generally not permitted without higher-level registration as a registered medicine, which requires more substantial evidence.

Japan: In Japan, lycopene is approved as a Food with Function Claims (FFC) ingredient. This regulatory category, established in 2015, allows for certain health claims based on scientific evidence, without requiring the stringent approval process of Foods for Specified Health Uses (FOSHU). Several lycopene products have been registered as FFCs with claims related to maintaining skin health and antioxidant activity. Lycopene is also permitted as a food additive in Japan for coloring purposes.

Global Outlook: Globally, lycopene is widely accepted as a supplement ingredient and food additive, though specific regulations regarding dosage, claims, and applications vary by country. The regulatory trend appears to be moving toward greater acceptance of lycopene’s role in health maintenance, with some jurisdictions now allowing more specific health claims based on the growing body of scientific evidence. As research continues to expand into lycopene’s benefits for various health conditions, regulatory frameworks may evolve to address these emerging applications.

Low to moderate

$0.10-$0.40 per day for basic lycopene supplements (10-15 mg); $0.40-$0.80 per day for premium formulations with enhanced bioavailability or additional ingredients; $0.05-$0.20 per day for lycopene from food sources (based on 1/2 cup tomato sauce or 1 cup tomato juice)

Lycopene offers excellent value compared to many other supplements, providing evidence-based benefits at a relatively modest cost. Basic lycopene supplements typically cost $0.10-$0.40 per day for effective doses (10-15 mg), making it one of the more affordable evidence-based supplements for prostate and cardiovascular health. This translates to approximately $3-12 per month at standard dosing, significantly less expensive than many other interventions for these health concerns. The value proposition is particularly strong considering the substantial research supporting lycopene’s benefits, especially for prostate health and antioxidant protection.

When comparing lycopene to pharmaceutical interventions for related conditions, the cost difference is dramatic. While lycopene is not a treatment for established disease, its preventive benefits come at a fraction of the cost of medications for conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia or cardiovascular disease, which can cost hundreds of dollars per month. For those seeking to support prostate or heart health proactively, lycopene represents a cost-effective approach. Compared to other supplements for prostate health, lycopene demonstrates competitive value.

Saw palmetto, a popular prostate supplement, typically costs $0.30-$0.70 per day, while specialized prostate formulas containing multiple ingredients often cost $0.80-$2.00 per day. Lycopene provides one of the most evidence-backed components at a lower price point. For specialized formulations, the value calculation becomes more nuanced. Premium products containing lycopene in more bioavailable forms (such as cis-isomer enriched or microencapsulated formulations) may offer better value than basic products despite the higher price, as they may provide greater biological activity per milligram.

Similarly, formulations that include complementary ingredients like other tomato phytochemicals may justify their premium pricing for some users. When comparing lycopene products, significant quality variations exist in the market. Independent testing has found substantial discrepancies between labeled and actual lycopene content in some supplements. Products verified by third-party testing organizations may cost slightly more but provide greater assurance of accurate dosing and purity, potentially offering better value despite the higher price.

For those able to consistently consume lycopene-rich foods, dietary sources may offer the best value at approximately $0.05-$0.20 per day (based on 1/2 cup tomato sauce or 1 cup tomato juice providing 10-20 mg of lycopene). This food-based approach not only provides lycopene but also delivers other beneficial nutrients and phytochemicals found in tomatoes. However, many people find it challenging to consume sufficient quantities of these foods regularly, making supplements a practical alternative. The cost-effectiveness of lycopene extends beyond direct purchase price when considering potential healthcare savings.

Maintaining prostate and cardiovascular health may reduce healthcare utilization, potentially including fewer doctor visits, reduced medication use, and lower risk of more serious conditions requiring expensive interventions. For specific applications like skin photoprotection, lycopene’s daily cost ($0.10-$0.40) is minimal compared to the cost of many topical skin care products, though it should be viewed as complementary to rather than a replacement for topical sun protection.

Lycopene stability varies significantly based on the specific formulation, storage conditions, and protective measures implemented by manufacturers. Under optimal storage conditions, lycopene in oil-based softgel formulations typically maintains acceptable potency for 18-24 months from the date of manufacture. This is reflected in the expiration dates assigned by manufacturers, though these are often conservative estimates. The primary degradation pathway for lycopene is oxidation, which is accelerated by exposure to light, heat, and oxygen.

As a carotenoid with an extended system of 11 conjugated double bonds, lycopene is particularly susceptible to oxidative degradation, which can lead to loss of color and biological activity. Lycopene is generally considered one of the less stable carotenoids due to its highly unsaturated structure, making proper formulation and storage particularly important. The stability of lycopene in different supplement forms varies considerably. Oil-based softgels typically provide the best protection against oxidation by limiting oxygen exposure.

Tablets and powders generally have shorter shelf lives due to their increased surface area and greater exposure to environmental factors. In food sources, lycopene stability is affected by processing, cooking, and storage methods. Interestingly, moderate heat processing (as in making tomato sauce or paste) can actually increase lycopene stability by disrupting cellular structures that might contain oxidative enzymes, while simultaneously increasing the proportion of cis isomers. However, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can accelerate degradation.

Some manufacturers add antioxidants like vitamin E, rosemary extract, or ascorbyl palmitate to lycopene formulations to enhance stability by preventing oxidative degradation. These additions can significantly extend shelf life, particularly in more vulnerable formulations like powders. Microencapsulation and beadlet technologies are increasingly used to protect lycopene from environmental factors and extend shelf life. These technologies involve encapsulating lycopene particles in a protective matrix, often made of modified starch, protein, or other materials that create a barrier against oxygen, light, and moisture.

Store lycopene supplements in a cool, dry place away from direct light, preferably at temperatures between 15-25°C (59-77°F). Keep containers tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption and minimize oxygen exposure, as both can accelerate degradation of lycopene. Avoid storing in bathrooms or other high-humidity areas where temperature and humidity fluctuate. Light protection is particularly important for lycopene stability.

Store in the original opaque container or packaging that blocks light exposure. If transferring to another container, ensure it is opaque and airtight. Refrigeration is generally not necessary for most lycopene supplements but may help extend shelf life, particularly in hot and humid climates. However, avoid freezing liquid lycopene supplements, as this can affect the formulation integrity.

Check product-specific recommendations, as formulations vary in their sensitivity to environmental factors. Some products include oxygen absorbers or desiccants in the packaging to protect against oxidation and moisture – these should be left in place but not consumed. For lycopene-rich foods, proper storage can help maintain lycopene content. Tomato products should be stored according to package directions, with opened containers refrigerated and used within the recommended timeframe.

Interestingly, canned or jarred tomato products maintain their lycopene content well during storage due to the oxygen-free environment. When cooking with tomato products, using moderate heat with some healthy oil not only increases lycopene bioavailability but may also help protect it from oxidation during cooking. Avoid prolonged high-heat cooking methods, which can cause substantial lycopene losses. For opened liquid lycopene supplements, refrigeration may help maintain potency, and they should be used within the timeframe recommended by the manufacturer (typically 1-3 months after opening).

If a lycopene supplement changes color significantly (fading from deep red to pale orange or yellow), develops an unusual odor, or shows physical changes, it may have degraded and should be replaced.

Oxidation (primary degradation pathway due to lycopene’s extended conjugated double bond system), Light exposure (particularly UV and blue wavelengths, which can break down carotenoid structure), Heat (accelerates oxidation reactions; significant degradation occurs above 50°C/122°F with prolonged exposure), Oxygen exposure (direct contributor to oxidative degradation), Moisture (can promote hydrolysis and other degradation reactions), Metal ions (particularly iron and copper, which can catalyze oxidation reactions), Enzymes (lipoxygenase and peroxidase in raw plant materials can degrade carotenoids), Acids (can promote isomerization and degradation in certain conditions), Interactions with other ingredients in combination formulations, Freeze-thaw cycles (for liquid formulations)

Synthesis Methods

Natural Sources

Quality Considerations

Unlike many traditional medicinal herbs with centuries of documented use, lycopene has a relatively short history as a recognized health compound, despite humans consuming lycopene-rich foods throughout evolutionary history. The specific identification and understanding of lycopene as a beneficial compound distinct from other plant pigments is primarily a development of modern nutritional science. Lycopene has been consumed by humans for millennia through tomatoes and other lycopene-rich fruits, though the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) itself has a complex history of human use. Tomatoes originated in western South America and were domesticated in Mexico, with evidence of cultivation dating back to at least 500 BCE by Aztec and other Mesoamerican peoples.

When Spanish conquistadors encountered tomatoes in the 16th century, they brought the fruit back to Europe, where it was initially met with suspicion in some regions. In parts of Europe, tomatoes were initially grown as ornamental plants and considered potentially poisonous due to their relationship to deadly nightshade. This misconception persisted in some areas until the late 18th century. However, in Mediterranean countries, particularly Italy and Spain, tomatoes were more quickly adopted into the culinary tradition, becoming an important part of the diet by the 17th century.

The widespread cultivation and consumption of tomatoes throughout the Mediterranean region may have contributed to some of the health benefits associated with the Mediterranean diet, though the specific role of lycopene was unknown at the time. The scientific discovery and isolation of carotenoids began in the early 19th century, with the term ‘carotene’ first used in 1831 by Heinrich Wilhelm Ferdinand Wackenroder, who isolated the compound from carrots. However, lycopene was not specifically identified and named until 1873, when it was isolated from tomatoes by chemist C. A.

Schunck. The name ‘lycopene’ derives from the tomato’s botanical name, Solanum lycopersicum. The chemical structure of lycopene was not fully elucidated until the 1930s, with significant contributions from researchers like Paul Karrer, who received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1937 for his work on carotenoids and other plant compounds. The modern understanding of lycopene’s health benefits began to emerge in the late 20th century.

In the 1980s, researchers began investigating the potential health benefits of various carotenoids, including lycopene. The first major epidemiological study suggesting a link between lycopene consumption and reduced cancer risk was published in 1989, when researchers found an inverse association between dietary intake of tomatoes and risk of prostate cancer. This was followed by a landmark 1995 study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, which found that men who consumed 10 or more servings of tomato products weekly had a 35% lower risk of prostate cancer compared to those who consumed fewer than 1.5 servings weekly. This study sparked significant interest in lycopene’s potential cancer-preventive properties.

The 1990s saw a surge in research on lycopene, with studies exploring its antioxidant properties, bioavailability, and potential health benefits for various conditions beyond prostate cancer, including cardiovascular disease, skin health, and other cancers. The first commercial lycopene supplements became widely available in the late 1990s, initially marketed primarily for prostate health and antioxidant protection. These early supplements were typically derived from tomatoes, though synthetic lycopene was also developed. In the early 2000s, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the U.S.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began evaluating health claims related to lycopene and tomato products. While strict disease prevention claims have not been approved, the scientific interest in lycopene’s health benefits has continued to grow. In recent decades, research on lycopene has expanded to explore its potential benefits for a wide range of health conditions, including metabolic syndrome, bone health, cognitive function, and respiratory health. Advanced analytical techniques have allowed researchers to better understand lycopene’s bioavailability, metabolism, and mechanisms of action at the cellular and molecular levels.

Today, lycopene is recognized as an important dietary compound with multiple health benefits, particularly for prostate and cardiovascular health. It is available in numerous supplement formulations and is increasingly featured in functional foods and beverages. The scientific understanding of lycopene continues to evolve, with ongoing research exploring optimal dosing, synergistic combinations with other nutrients, and potential applications for various health conditions.

Lycopene supplementation for prevention of prostate cancer progression during active surveillance, Effects of lycopene on cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment, Combination of lycopene with standard therapy for metabolic syndrome, Lycopene supplementation for exercise recovery in athletes, Comparison of different lycopene formulations for bioavailability and tissue accumulation, Lycopene’s effects on sperm parameters in subfertile men, Long-term effects of lycopene supplementation on skin aging (5-year follow-up), Lycopene for protection against air pollution-induced oxidative stress, Maternal lycopene supplementation and pregnancy outcomes, Lycopene’s effects on gut microbiome composition and function