What pigment is responsible for the deep orange color in most pumpkin varieties?
Answer
Beta-carotene
Beta-carotene is specifically identified as the pigment responsible for imparting the deep orange coloration observed in the majority of pumpkin varieties. This compound is highly significant because, upon consumption, the human body efficiently converts it into Vitamin A, which is essential for various bodily functions, particularly vision maintenance. Although the Baby Boo pumpkin is white, its flesh still contains precursor compounds that undergo this conversion process, though orange varieties possess a higher raw concentration of the pigment itself.
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