What is "violaxanthin"

n. (context organic compound English) A xanthophyll pigment (a di-epoxide, derived from zeaxanthin) that occurs in many plants.

Violaxanthin is a natural xanthophyll pigment with an orange color found in a variety of plants including pansies. It is biosynthesized from zeaxanthin by epoxidation. As a food additive it is used under the E number E161e as a food coloring; it is not approved for use in the EU or USA however is approved in Australia and New Zealand (where it is listed under its INS number 161e).