In a world where screen time dominates our days and eye health concerns grow more prevalent, the demand for lutein has never been higher. This powerful carotenoid, often paired with its close cousin zeaxanthin, is celebrated for its role in supporting eye function, particularly by protecting the retina from harmful blue light and oxidative stress. From dietary supplements to functional foods and even cosmetics, lutein has become a staple ingredient for brands aiming to prioritize consumer wellness. For businesses in Ecuador and beyond, finding reliable, high-quality lutein suppliers is the first step toward creating products that stand out in a crowded market. That's why we've compiled this guide to the top 10 lutein suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and traders in Ecuador—companies that blend expertise, sustainability, and a commitment to purity to deliver the best lutein ingredients available.
1. Andean Lutein Extracts S.A.
Founded in 2005 in Quito, Andean Lutein Extracts S.A. has grown from a small family operation to one of Ecuador's most trusted names in lutein production. What sets them apart? Their deep roots in sustainable farming. The company partners with over 100 local marigold farmers in the Andean highlands, where the cool climate and nutrient-rich soil create ideal conditions for growing the flowers that are the primary sources of lutein . By working directly with farmers, they ensure fair prices and eco-friendly practices, from organic fertilization to water conservation.
Andean Lutein Extracts specializes in high-purity lutein esters and lutein powder, with concentrations ranging from 5% to 90%. Their state-of-the-art extraction facility in Guayaquil uses cold-press technology to preserve the nutrient's integrity, avoiding harsh chemicals that can degrade quality. They're also certified organic by the Ecuadorian Organic Certification Board (EOCB) and comply with GMP standards, making them a favorite for clients in the pharmaceutical and dietary supplement industries. Whether you're a small brand looking for bulk orders or a multinational corporation needing custom formulations, their team of food scientists is known for flexibility and personalized service.
2. Ecuadorian Nutraceuticals Ltd.
If you're in the market for lutein that's optimized for eye health supplements, look no further than Ecuadorian Nutraceuticals Ltd. Based in Guayaquil, this manufacturer has carved a niche by focusing on lutein and zeaxanthin blends tailored to meet the specific needs of the supplement industry. Since 2010, they've invested heavily in research and development, creating formulations that mimic the natural ratio of lutein to zeaxanthin found in the human eye—approximately 5:1—for maximum bioavailability.
Ecuadorian Nutraceuticals sources its marigold petals from certified organic farms in the coastal region of Manabí, where the warm, sunny climate accelerates flower growth without compromising nutrient density. Their extraction process uses supercritical CO2, a method that's not only environmentally friendly but also yields lutein with minimal solvent residues. The result? A product that's not just pure but also highly stable, with a shelf life of up to 36 months when stored properly. They offer both powdered and liquid forms, making them a versatile choice for everything from capsules to eye drops. With clients across Latin America and Europe, their reputation for consistency has made them a go-to supplier for brands aiming to create the best lutein supplement on the market.
3. Amazonian Botanicals Trading Co.
While many lutein suppliers focus solely on marigold-derived products, Amazonian Botanicals Trading Co. takes a more holistic approach. Founded in 2012 in Cuenca, this wholesaler prides itself on offering a diverse range of natural extracts, with lutein being one of their flagship offerings. What makes them unique is their commitment to biodiversity—they source not just marigold petals but also other plant-based sources of lutein , such as kale and spinach, for clients seeking plant-forward, multi-source formulations.
Amazonian Botanicals works directly with indigenous communities in the Amazon basin to source leafy greens, ensuring that their supply chain supports local economies and preserves traditional farming practices. Their lutein extracts are available in both organic and conventional varieties, with bulk packaging options that cater to small businesses and large-scale manufacturers alike. They also offer custom blending services, allowing clients to combine lutein with other nutrients like vitamin E or omega-3s for enhanced health benefits. With a focus on transparency, they provide detailed certificates of analysis (COAs) for every batch, so you can trust exactly what's in your product. For brands that value sustainability and ethical sourcing, Amazonian Botanicals is a standout choice.
4. LuteinEcuador Manufacturing
When it comes to scale, few can match LuteinEcuador Manufacturing. Located in the industrial hub of Guayaquil, this manufacturer operates one of the largest lutein extraction facilities in South America, with a production capacity of over 500 metric tons per year. Founded in 2018 by a team of pharmaceutical experts, they've quickly made a name for themselves by focusing on pharmaceutical-grade lutein, meeting the stringent standards required for use in prescription eye drops and medical supplements.
LuteinEcuador sources marigold petals from farms in the Loja province, known for their high lutein content—up to 12 mg per gram of dried petals. Their extraction process is fully automated, using advanced chromatography to isolate lutein with 99% purity, making it ideal for applications where precision is critical. They also offer lutein and zeaxanthin combinations in varying ratios, including the 3:1 blend recommended by some eye health experts for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) support. With ISO 9001 and FDA registration, they export to over 20 countries, including the United States and Europe. For businesses that need large volumes of ultra-pure lutein, LuteinEcuador is the supplier to beat.
5. Coastal Lutein Wholesalers
For small to medium-sized businesses looking for affordable, high-quality lutein, Coastal Lutein Wholesalers in Manta is a hidden gem. Founded in 2015, this family-run wholesaler specializes in bulk lutein powder, offering competitive prices without sacrificing quality. They work directly with a network of 50+ marigold farms in the Santa Elena peninsula, cutting out middlemen to keep costs low for their clients.
Coastal Lutein's product line includes both lutein esters and free lutein, with concentrations ranging from 10% to 80%. They're particularly popular among local supplement brands and food manufacturers, who use their lutein to fortify energy bars, smoothies, and even baby food. What clients love most is their flexibility—they offer minimum order quantities as low as 1 kg, making it easy for startups to test new products without committing to large batches. They also provide fast turnaround times, with most orders shipped within 48 hours of payment. While they may not have the bells and whistles of larger manufacturers, Coastal Lutein Wholesalers earns its spot on this list through reliability, affordability, and a genuine commitment to supporting small businesses.
6. Andean BioExtracts
Andean BioExtracts, based in Cuenca, takes a unique approach to lutein production by focusing on organic, cold-pressed extracts. Founded in 2010 by a group of biologists passionate about sustainable agriculture, the company believes that gentle extraction methods preserve more of lutein's natural benefits. Their process uses only cold water and mechanical pressing to extract lutein from marigold petals, avoiding heat or chemicals that can break down the nutrient's structure.
The result is a lutein extract that retains more of its natural antioxidants, making it a favorite for cosmetic brands that incorporate lutein into anti-aging serums and creams. Their organic certification from the USDA and EU Organic ensures that their products are free from pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, appealing to eco-conscious consumers. They also offer a line of lutein and zeaxanthin softgels for direct consumer sale, though their primary focus is wholesale supply to skincare and supplement companies. With a small-batch philosophy, they prioritize quality over quantity, making them ideal for premium brands that want to highlight "artisanal" extraction methods in their marketing.
7. Ecuador Lutein Traders
As the name suggests, Ecuador Lutein Traders is all about connecting buyers with the best lutein sources in the country. Based in Quito, this trading company acts as a middleman between small-scale farmers and international buyers, helping to bridge the gap between local production and global demand. Founded in 2012, they've built a reputation for vetting suppliers rigorously, ensuring that every batch of lutein meets strict quality standards before it's shipped.
Ecuador Lutein Traders works with over 200 marigold farmers across Ecuador, aggregating their harvests to create larger, more consistent batches. They offer a range of products, from raw marigold meal (a cost-effective option for animal feed supplements) to refined lutein powder for human consumption. What makes them unique is their focus on traceability—each batch can be traced back to the specific farm where the marigolds were grown, along with soil test results and farming practices. This level of transparency is invaluable for brands that want to tell a compelling story about their ingredients. They also offer flexible payment terms and logistics support, making international shipping hassle-free. For buyers who want to support small-scale agriculture while getting reliable lutein, Ecuador Lutein Traders is the perfect partner.
8. GreenLutein Ecuador
GreenLutein Ecuador is on a mission to make lutein accessible to everyone, from large manufacturers to home herbalists. Founded in 2016 in Ambato, this supplier specializes in standardized lutein extracts that are easy to use in a variety of applications, from homemade supplements to commercial food products. Their most popular offering is a water-soluble lutein powder, which dissolves easily in beverages like smoothies or sports drinks—a rarity in the market, where most lutein extracts are oil-based.
GreenLutein sources marigold petals from the Tungurahua province, using solar-powered dryers to reduce their carbon footprint. Their extraction process uses ethanol, a food-grade solvent, to create a gentle, plant-based extract that's suitable for vegan and vegetarian products. They also offer a line of best lutein supplement starter kits for small businesses, including pre-measured powder, packaging labels, and formulation guides. With a focus on education, they host workshops for local entrepreneurs on how to incorporate lutein into their products, fostering a community of innovators. For brands that want versatile, eco-friendly lutein options, GreenLutein is a breath of fresh air.
9. LuteinPlus Manufacturing
LuteinPlus Manufacturing, based in Guayaquil, is all about innovation. Founded in 2020 by a team of food technologists, they've developed a proprietary microencapsulation process that protects lutein from heat, light, and oxygen, extending its shelf life and improving its absorption in the body. This technology makes their lutein ideal for use in baked goods, cereals, and other high-temperature processed foods, where traditional lutein extracts often break down.
Their microencapsulated lutein is available in powder and liquid form, with a particle size small enough to mix seamlessly into clear beverages without clouding. They also offer blends with other carotenoids like beta-carotene or lycopene, creating multi-functional ingredients for brands looking to boost the nutritional profile of their products. LuteinPlus sources marigold petals from certified sustainable farms in the Esmeraldas province, and their facility is zero-waste, using leftover marigold biomass to create organic fertilizer. For brands that want to push the boundaries of what lutein can do, LuteinPlus is the supplier of choice.
10. Southern Ecuador Lutein Co-Op
Last but certainly not least, the Southern Ecuador Lutein Co-Op is a shining example of community-driven business. Founded in 2014 by 30 marigold farmers in the Loja province, this co-op was created to give small-scale growers more control over their profits and ensure fair prices for their crops. Today, they operate their own extraction facility, processing over 100 metric tons of marigold petals annually to produce high-quality lutein powder and oil.
The co-op's focus is on organic, small-batch production, with each farmer contributing to the quality control process. Their lutein is certified organic by the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM), and they prioritize traditional farming methods, avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. They offer both conventional and organic lutein, with a focus on sources of lutein that tell a story—many of their farmers have been growing marigolds for generations, passing down knowledge that ensures consistent quality. By buying from the co-op, businesses not only get great lutein but also support sustainable agriculture and rural development. For brands that want to align their values with their supply chain, the Southern Ecuador Lutein Co-Op is an inspiring choice.
Choosing the right lutein supplier is about more than just price—it's about quality, reliability, and shared values. Whether you're a supplement brand looking for pharmaceutical-grade extracts, a food manufacturer in need of bulk powder, or a small business prioritizing sustainability, Ecuador's top 10 lutein suppliers offer something for every need. From the large-scale production of LuteinEcuador Manufacturing to the community-focused Southern Ecuador Lutein Co-Op, these companies represent the best of what Ecuador has to offer: expertise, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. As the demand for lutein continues to grow, these suppliers will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the future of eye health and wellness—one high-quality extract at a time.
