... Wachenroder after he crystallized this compound from carrot roots. Beta-carotene is a member of the carotenoids, which are ... , sweet potatoes, squash, spinach, apricots, and green peppers). Alpha, beta, and gamma carotene are considered provitamins because they can be ... cornea of the eye), and ultimately death. Commercially available beta-carotene is produced synthetically or from palm oil, algae, ...