Xanthophylls are a class of carotenoids, which are pigments found in plants. They are responsible for the yellow and orange colors in many fruits and vegetables, such as corn and bell peppers. Xanthophylls play a crucial role in photosynthesis by helping to capture light energy and protect plants from damage caused by excess sunlight. In addition to their role in plants, xanthophylls are important for human health. They are found in foods like spinach and kale and are known for their antioxidant properties. These compounds may help protect the eyes from damage and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.