This research developed a more efficient way to produce canthaxanthin, a natural red-orange pigment with health benefits, using genetically modified fungi. The scientists modified a common fungus to produce record levels of this valuable compound, which has applications in food coloring, cosmetics, and medicine. Impacts on everyday life: – Could lead to more affordable and natural food colorings – May improve the availability of natural antioxidant supplements – Could reduce reliance on synthetic additives in cosmetics and foods – May help make fish farming more sustainable through natural feed additives – Could provide new options for natural pharmaceutical ingredients