The invention relates to astaxanthin compositions for use in foods, food supplements or animal feed or as a medicament. (Formula (A)) Astaxanthin compositions, which contain at least 50 wt.%, in particular at least 60 wt.%, more particularly at least 70 wt.%, and especially at least 80 wt.% or at least 90 wt.%, relative to the total weight of astaxanthin and astaxanthin derivatives in the composition, a monoester of the astaxanthin having C18-1 - fatty acid, have a particularly high bioavailability. They are therefore particularly suitable for use in foods, food supplements or animal feed and for therapeutic use as a medicament and as an ingredient for medical preparations or pharmaceutical agents.
