124. The red color of beetroot is due to the presence of:
A. Betalains
B. Anthocyanins
C. Flavonoids
D. Carotenoids

Detailed Explanation:

The red color of beetroot comes from a group of water-soluble pigments known as betalains.

Key Points:

• Betalains are nitrogen-containing pigments found in the Caryophyllales order of plants (e.g., beets, amaranth).

• They are divided into:

  • Betacyanins (red-violet pigments)

  • Betaxanthins (yellow-orange pigments)

• The main red pigment in beetroot is betanin, a type of betacyanin.

• Unlike anthocyanins, betalains do not coexist with them in the same plant species.

Why Not the Others?

• Anthocyanins are common in red/purple fruits and flowers but not present in beetroot.

• Flavonoids are a broad class of plant compounds but are not responsible for beetroot’s red hue.

• Carotenoids are typically yellow-orange, not red, and dominate in carrots and tomatoes, not beetroot.

✅ Correct Answer:

A. Betalains