Red carrots derive their colour from the beta carotene, the naturally occurring group of pigments that determines the colour of many fruit and vegetables. Beta carotene are essential to make vitamin A, which are required for a good eyesight. Beta-carotene is most abundant in carrots, it is also found in pumpkins, apricots and nectarines. Another compound called lycopene, the one also found in tomatoes is also responsible for the reddish hue. Lycopene protects our body against free radicals for its high antioxidant properties, putting the risk of heart diseases at bay.