The preparation and stability of the inclusion complex of astaxanthin with β-cyclodextrin

Inclusion complex of astaxanthin with β-cyclodextrin was prepared. The water solubility of the inclusion complex was <0.5 mg/ml, which is better than that of astaxanthin. Large aggregates were observed in the aqueous solution of the inclusion complex. Furthermore, the stability of the inclusion complex against temperature and light was greatly enhanced compared to that of astaxanthin.