Abstract

To some people a suntan is an indicator of healthy activity and social prowess. Canthaxanthin is a naturally occurring orange carotenoid without vitamin A properties made by Hoffmann-La Roche and used, for example, as a food additive to improve the colour of farmed salmon. It is now also available over the counter as 30 mg oral capsules (Orobronze - De Witt) for people to dye themselves an orange-brown colour. The DHSS has not issued a product licence for Orobronze because it is ‘not a medicinal product’.