Lack of genotoxicity with beta-carotene

A literature review was conducted on adverse effects of carotenoids on human and animal development. The data suggest that beta-carotene administration prevented genetic damage caused by mutagens both in bacterial and cell culture systems, and that large doses of pure beta-carotene do not cause embryotoxicity in rodents. In addition, studies of individuals with congenitally high levels of plasma carotenoids and babies born carotenemic because of their mothers' intake of large amounts of carotenoid-containing foods during pregnancy reveal no abnormalities attributable to the carotenoid molecule.