Abstract

Lycopene is present in a large number of plants and is a biomolecule with excellent antioxidant qualities. This carotenoid, derived from phytoene, responds strongly to environmental conditions, leading to different lycopene content in fruits and vegetables. Several observational studies, cohorts, and case–control studies carried out in humans have shown that the inclusion of lycopene in the diet and its consumption play a positive role in health by promoting protection in different body systems by mitigating damage caused by oxidative stress, although this depends on its bioavailability and dietary matrix. However, it can cause lycopenodermia, allergic reactions, irritation of the digestive tract, changes in blood pressure, and negative effects when interacting with medications. Owing to its nutritional importance and increasing demand in the industrial sector (food additives for both animals and humans, dietary supplements, and cosmetic-dermal applications), its content in crops should be promoted. In this sense, the present review offers (i) a short summary of lycopene biosynthesis, (ii) evidence of the potential sources of lycopene, (iii) an analysis of environmental modulation, (iv) a clarification of the bioaccessibility and mechanisms of action of lycopene on health, and (v) an overview of its industrial applications, highlighting its safety and toxicological considerations. Within this conceptual framework, lycopene biosynthesis can be optimized through environmental modulation, which in turn improves bioaccessibility from food matrices to promote health benefits and efficiency in industrial use. However, this requires redoubled efforts to address the challenges arising from this perspective.

Key words: additives; antioxidant; bioaccessibility; carotenoids; oxidative stress.