E160: Carotenoids

What is E160?

E160 is the umbrella number for carotenoids, a family of yellow, orange and red fat-soluble pigments found widely in plants and microorganisms. The group includes carotenes, annatto, paprika extract, lycopene and related compounds, each with its own sub-number.

Origin and production

Depending on the variant, carotenoids are extracted from plants such as carrots, annatto seeds, paprika and tomatoes, obtained from microalgae or fungi, or made by chemical synthesis.

Why is it used?

Carotenoids give foods colours ranging from pale yellow to deep red. They are used in margarines and spreads, ice cream, pastries, festive cakes, shortbread and soft drinks.

Vegan, vegetarian and halal

The pigments themselves are not animal-derived, but they are often supplied in formulations that can contain gelatin as a carrier. Vegans, vegetarians and those keeping halal or kosher may wish to check certification or ask the manufacturer.

Safety and regulation

The individual carotenoids under E160 are authorised as food colours in the EU and have been re-evaluated by EFSA separately, with conditions that vary between the different sub-numbers.

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